2023

In 2023, charter schools across various states faced renewals being denied or significantly shortened due to alleged performance issues, with Chicago’s situation exemplifying national trends. A lack of consistency and transparency in accountability processes jeopardizes school stability. The ongoing political dysfunction complicates establishing clear standards for public schools, raising concerns about future authorizer decisions.

The heart of the charter school movement lies in individuals who inspire others, particularly Don Shalvey. With over 56 years of dedication, Don exemplifies passion and commitment to education. Despite recent health challenges, his influence continues to foster collaboration and dedication, encouraging all to love their work and strengthen the movement.

The author discusses the importance of actively addressing educational redlining to avoid misrepresentation of charter schools. Recent polling shows support for this initiative. The piece critiques the LAUSD board and prominent anti-charter advocate Jackie Goldberg’s misleading narratives about charter schools, urging charter supporters to highlight the district’s historical failings for a fairer educational discourse.

The post discusses the importance of accurate communication about charter schools, highlighting the Mind Trust’s contributions to improving student outcomes. A student’s op-ed critiques charter schools but fails to address underlying funding and equity issues. The author emphasizes the need to confront misconceptions and advocate for transparent discussions around education funding and opportunities.

CharterFolk experienced a notable increase in open rates, attributed possibly to a disciplined publishing schedule. As 2023 unfolds, the author plans to implement a consistent release of posts. A rising trend of parents reassessing public education and exploring alternatives due to dissatisfaction is evident, influenced by AI and new instructional methods.

In the charter school advocacy landscape, there are significant job opportunities, particularly in Mississippi, Iowa, and Connecticut. A notable white paper by Alan Gottlieb emphasizes the need for coherence in public education, especially regarding the dysfunction in Denver Public Schools and similar districts. The piece suggests that understanding and addressing these dynamics is essential for effective reform.

Terry Ryan, CEO of Bluum, discusses the evolving charter school landscapes in Idaho, Colorado, and New Mexico. Despite past challenges, both Idaho and New Mexico are seeing significant growth in their charter sectors, driven by supportive policies and funding. However, a political divide poses a future threat to school choice advocacy.

The author shares reflections after a delayed flight home from India, highlighting the stark contrasts in education systems between India and the United States. Observations reveal widespread dissatisfaction with public schools in India, prompting a shift to private education. The narrative underscores a global education crisis revealing similar discrepancies in both nations, emphasizing the urgent need for reform.