2025

CharterFolk X Vol. 4.35, Steven Carney – “I’ve got to be part of changing this system.”

Steven Carney, the founding executive director of Rooted School Vancouver, turned his personal journey of overcoming educational challenges into a mission to support underserved students. He advocates for charter schools, emphasizing their potential to provide practical pathways to financial freedom through workforce training and college preparation, crucial for breaking poverty cycles.

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Mid-Week Whip-Around – Carr Speaks | Data Disconnect | Entering New Regions | A Worthwhile Mess

Peggy Carr recently raised concerns about the loss of academic performance data in public education. This disconnect between K-12 testing and college admissions advantages top applicants. While Democrats remain opposed to charter schools, Tennessee shows promise with improved authorization. Rural charter school growth is gaining attention, as states explore federal money for school choice.

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CharterFolk X: Volume 4.34 Tori Jackson Hines — Leading with an Uncompromising Focus on Kids 

Tori Jackson Hines, founder and CEO of Resurgence Hall in Atlanta, emphasizes prioritizing children’s education. Inspired by inequities in public schools, she created Resurgence Hall, a leading public school known for its structured support system for teachers. Tori advocates for educational justice, recognizing the need for strong leadership and community support in schools.

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Why the Charter School Movement is Getting Its Swagger Back – A CharterFolk Chat With New Charter School Hall of Fame Inductee Chris Barbic

In a recent CharterFolk Chat, Chris Barbic, newly inducted into the Charter School Hall of Fame, discusses his career in education, the impact of his early experiences at YES Prep, and lessons learned amidst challenges. He shares insights on the charter movement’s progress and his future vision, encouraging listeners to engage with the conversation.

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CharterFolk Contributor Cameron Curry – Sea to Shining Sea: Comparing and Celebrating California and North Carolina Public Charter School Success

Cameron Curry reflects on his dual experiences with charter schools in California and North Carolina. While both states offer diverse educational choices, significant differences in legislative support impact their growth. California’s restrictive environment contrasts with North Carolina’s supportive stance, fostering optimism and innovation. Both states highlight charter schools’ impact on communities and student success.

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Mid-Week Whip-Around – CharterLand Covers the Map|Education Marketing| Where 20,000 Kindergartens are Closing| A Revolution From the Other Side of the World Comes Here

CharterFolk reports on various developments in charter schools across the U.S., highlighting achievements in North Dakota and legal victories in Los Angeles. New charter proposals emerge in San Francisco, while enrollment declines reflect demographic shifts nationally. OpenAI’s recent podcast emphasizes educational marketing, revealing potential transformations in U.S. education influenced by global trends.

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CharterFolk X Volume 4.33 Jemia Cunningham-Elder “But choice should belong to everyone, not just those who’ve always had it.”

Jemia Cunningham-Elder, CEO of North Lawndale College Prep, shares her transformative journey from an underprivileged past to advocating for educational equity. Her experiences drive a commitment to college access and relevance for students, particularly in underserved communities. Jemia emphasizes the importance of community, mission, and choice in education.

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A Vista, Not a Mirror: A Glimpse of the World We’re Driving Into

New data from Tennessee shows charter schools significantly outperform district schools, especially post-pandemic. Studies from various states highlight the stark contrast, with charters excelling, particularly for underserved students. Despite this success, opposition remains, limiting growth in regions like New York and impacting funding, raising concerns about the future of charter education.

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CharterFolk Contributor Adkeem Jackson – A Recipe for Community Mobilization Success: Building Effective Charter Public School Advocacy

Good morning, CharterFolk. Today we’re happy to share with you a Contributor Column from Adkeem Jackson, the Senior Director of Community Mobilization for the Massachusetts Charter Public School Association (MCPSA). We provide a bio for Adkeem below. Adkeem Jackson is the Senior Director of Community Mobilization for the Massachusetts Charter Public School Association (MCPSA). In

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