2022 - CharterFolk

CharterFolk Contributor Ruben Felipe – Report From Connecticut: If Breakthroughs Can Be Made Here, They Can Be Made Anywhere

February 15, 2022

Ruben Felipe, Executive Director of the Connecticut Charter Schools Association, emphasizes the urgent need for educational equity in Connecticut following the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights grassroots advocacy efforts that led to a significant funding increase for public schools, particularly serving Black and Latino students, aiming to eliminate a $713 million racial funding gap.

CharterFolk Reality – The Most Passionate Intensity is Being Directed Against Us, And the One Thing that Will See Us Through

February 13, 2022

The CharterFolk community highlights diverse political support for charter schools, especially among Black voters, showing a shift even in traditionally blue areas. Despite rising popularity, opposition from teacher unions remains intense and aggressive, employing intimidation tactics against supporters. Collective conviction is needed to navigate these challenges and advocate for educational reforms.

Linda Brown, Lagra Newman and Chris Manning at the CharterFolk Oxygen Bar – Resiliency, Persistence and Just Plain Stubbornness in Support of Improved Public Education For Those Who Need it Most

February 9, 2022

In the second video of the “CharterFolk Oxygen Bar” series, leaders Linda Brown, Lagra Newman, and Chris Manning share insights on resilience in charter education. Linda emphasizes persistence over resiliency, Lagra reflects on historical literacy challenges, and Chris discusses supporting families during the pandemic. Their inspirational conversation highlights the importance of leadership in education.

Wallace Hypocrisy|New CharterFolk Board Members|CharterFolk Running for Office

February 8, 2022

The post discusses challenges in the Boston Public Schools’ leadership and the need for accountability amid ongoing instability. It addresses the hypocrisy within the CharterFolk organization regarding the celebration of board members and acknowledges individuals running for office, highlighting the constraints of being a 501c3 organization while encouraging local advocacy.

The New Normal Street – Faster and Slower Trains A-Coming

February 4, 2022

Recent developments in public education reveal significant turmoil. California experiences a high number of legislative vacancies, while school boards face recalls and the closure of under-enrolled campuses. Increasing dissatisfaction among parents and staff signals a growing disconnect in expectations versus reality in public education, warranting urgent reform, not crisis rhetoric.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.7 – Gary Hart, The Bridge from Minnesota to a Nationwide Movement

February 2, 2022

Senator Gary Hart, known for his integrity and thoughtfulness, played a pivotal role in crafting California’s charter school law. His leadership enabled significant reforms that vastly expanded educational options. Hart’s dedication to principle and ethical governance left a lasting impact on the charter school movement, shaping its national momentum and philosophy.

Arne Considering, Natalie Rising, Nina Forging and More – A Whip Around the Contributions CharterFolk Are Making Across the Nation

January 30, 2022

The week’s CharterFolk update highlights challenges managing contributor columns due to time constraints. Notable mentions include the passing of Senator Gary Hart, Arne Duncan’s potential run for Chicago mayor, and successful advocacy efforts in Virginia and Delaware. Contributors are recognized for their impactful work in educational reform and community engagement.

How the Pandemic Saved Boston Public Schools and is Helping Tighten the Establishment’s Control Over Public Education in Many Blue States

January 26, 2022

The post discusses the increasing challenges faced by Boston Public Schools, especially for Black students, amidst declining enrollments during Covid. While some see the pandemic as diminishing established control over education, it has instead consolidated power for unions and the status quo. Future prospects for charter schools remain uncertain, complicating reform efforts.

CHINOs vs CABINs – Does it Even Matter if We Call Ourselves Charter Schools?

January 23, 2022

The discussion revolves around the terminology and classification of charter schools, particularly the concept of “CHINOs” (charters in name only) versus more autonomous charter schools. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing essential qualities of effective schools, regardless of labels, while navigating political dynamics that impact school names and advocacy efforts.

CharterFolk Contributors Ricardo Mireles and Jose Salas – The Proyecto Ya! Collective Got Some Los Angeles Schools Through COVID-19, But How Will Schools Get Through the Next Pandemic?

January 20, 2022

Ricardo Mireles and Jose Salas, leaders of Academia Avance and Montague Academy in Los Angeles respectively, reflect on their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the importance of effective public health measures in schools and express concern about the loss of authority for leaders to implement such measures in future health crises, highlighting the challenges faced by marginalized communities.