The author reflects on their recent getaway, contemplating the significant growth in charter school enrollment, estimating nearly 4 million students currently enrolled. This potential surge in advocacy funding could empower charter school associations and enhance their impact. The author expresses hope for a renewed commitment to equity and excellence in education.
In a recent message, the author expresses gratitude for community support while acknowledging the need for a gradual return to regular posting. They reflect on their experiences in Colombia, noting the successes and challenges faced by charter schools there. The author emphasizes their commitment to improving education options and appreciates the resilience of charter advocates.
The author reflects on a month since returning from Colombia, where he searched for his homeless brother in Medellín. After various challenges, he found support from locals, particularly a cab driver named Javer, who proved instrumental in reuniting them. The experience underscored the importance of community and human connection.
Jed shares a heartfelt message expressing gratitude towards the CharterFolk community for their support during challenging weeks as his brother recovers. He acknowledges the importance of family duties and plans to take a scheduled vacation, looking forward to resuming work and distributing CharterFolk content the week of July 12.
Jed has announced a temporary pause on CharterFolk due to family responsibilities, as he needs to assist his brother during a medical emergency in Colombia. He is uncertain about his return but appreciates the understanding and support from the CharterFolk community. His flight is scheduled for later that evening.
The announcement of CharterFolk of the Year received positive feedback, coinciding with the first anniversary of CharterFolk. The author reflects on the evolution of charter schools, describing a turbulent period followed by a resurgence of support. Emphasizing the need for strategic advocacy, the focus shifts towards a promising future in the upcoming Decade of Truth.
Danielle West-Augustin has been named CharterFolk of the Year for her dedication to enhancing educational opportunities at Queen City Academy Charter School in New Jersey. The announcement celebrates her impact on the charter school movement, along with acknowledging three outstanding runners-up. Award funding will be provided to the winners, encouraging community celebrations.
The CharterFolk community reminds members to vote for the CharterFolk of the Year Award and participate in a Murmuration survey. Celebrating 30 years of charter schools, the movement has faced backlash but also growth, particularly serving historically underserved students. A new narrative is necessary to highlight the positive impact of charter schools on public education reform.
Robert Enlow, CEO of EdChoice, discusses the complexities of public education, questioning what makes schools “public.” He argues that current systems often exclude diverse communities and fail to operate transparently. Enlow advocates for educational choices that reflect family values, promoting a bottom-up system. True public education should be about funding and results, not governance or ownership.
The author discusses the challenge of agency in public education, highlighting how stakeholders like parents, teachers, and principals often lack control, leading to a sense of “agency-less-ness.” This is contrasted with the need for dignity in education, echoed by insights from Jacqueline Novogratz, emphasizing the importance of choice and empowerment for systemic change.