CharterFolk X - CharterFolk

CharterFolk X, Vol 2.8 – Lester Long: From Driving Trucks to Driving Achievement – Providing “A Lucens Exemplum” of What the Charter School Movement is All About

April 28, 2022

Lester Long, founder of Classical Charter Schools in the South Bronx, is celebrated as CharterFolk Extraordinaire for his remarkable 16-year leadership. Under his guidance, schools have excelled despite tough challenges, achieving significant academic success and winning multiple National Blue Ribbon Awards. Long combines rigorous education with a commitment to character, transforming countless young lives.

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.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.6 – Natasha Barriga, Standing Resolute With Kids and Communities Where Great Public Education is Needed Most

October 26, 2021

Natasha Barriga, Executive Director of Resolute Academy in Watts, Los Angeles, is honored as CharterFolk Extraordinaire. Since opening in 2015, the school has transformed from neglect to a thriving college preparatory institution for low-income students. Barriga exemplifies resilience and commitment to providing quality education for all children in her community.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.5 – Arthur Samuels and Pagee Cheung, Bringing a 13th Level Commitment to the Quest for More Students Finally Accessing Excellent Public Education

October 12, 2021

Arthur Samuels and Pagee Cheung, founders of the Math, Engineering, Science Academy (MESA) in Brooklyn, are celebrated for their initiative to create a “13th grade” program. This program aims to support graduates in their transition to college or workforce training, reflecting MESA’s commitment to high-quality education for underserved communities since its founding in 2013.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.4 – Jennifer López, Exemplifying the Personal Readiness of the Charter School Movement’s Next Generation of Leadership

September 28, 2021

Jennifer López, CEO of Carmen Schools of Science and Technology in Milwaukee, is honored as CharterFolk Extraordinaire. A daughter of Salvadoran immigrants, she faced educational challenges and rose through teaching roles to lead Carmen, known for exceptional college readiness rates. Her leadership during the COVID-19 crisis further solidified her impact, earning recognition as a key Latino figure in Wisconsin.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.3 – Charvez Russell, Playing Every Role Necessary to Ensure that Parents and Communities Can Choose Better Options for Their Kids

September 21, 2021

Charvez Russell, Executive Director of Friendship Academy of the Arts in Minneapolis, has been recognized as CharterFolk Extraordinaire for his significant contributions to education. Coming from a family of educators, he led his charter school to success by emphasizing high expectations and culturally relevant learning, while also championing community engagement and advocating for educational equity.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.2 – Patricia Brantley and Donald Hense, the Friendship at the Heart of One of the Most Important Success Stories Happening in Public Education Today

September 15, 2021

Patricia Brantley and Donald Hense are recognized as CharterFolk Extraordinaire for their significant contributions to Friendship Public Charter School and the charter school movement in Washington, DC. Their partnership transformed public education, improving opportunities for countless students. Patricia succeeded Donald as CEO, continuing the legacy of excellence and advocacy for high standards in education.

CharterFolk X Vol 2.1 – Julia Meyerson, Returning to Her Hometown to Prove that Demographics Do Not Determine Destiny

September 8, 2021

Today marks the second year of CharterFolk X, celebrating Julia Meyerson, founder of Vista College Preparatory Charter School in Phoenix. Julia’s journey from education policy to founding Vista emphasizes the belief that demographics do not determine destiny, resulting in remarkable academic success and community engagement despite challenges in Arizona’s education system.

Last 10 Days to Get Your Vote in for the CharterFolk of the Year Award

May 25, 2021

CharterFolk encourages voting for the CharterFolk of the Year Award, highlighting high engagement with finalists Jerel Bryant, Delia Kumabe, Daniela Anello, and Danielle West-Augustin. The close race indicates the winner could be decided by a few votes. The deadline to vote is June 4, with results announced on June 8.

Final Round Voting for the 2021 CharterFolk of the Year Award

May 11, 2021

Voting for the CharterFolk of the Year Award is open from May 11 to June 4. Four finalists are available for review on the CharterFolk website. All subscribers can vote once, and winners will be announced on June 8. Encourage others to subscribe and participate to strengthen the CharterFolk community.