Contributor Columns

Cameron Curry, CEO of Classical Academies, discusses the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic in public education. He emphasizes the success of non-classroom based charter schools amidst inadequate traditional systems, advocating for educational reform. Curry’s organization filed a class action lawsuit against California for equitable funding, aiming to set a national precedent for charter school support.

Ben Austin, founding partner of Education Civil Rights Now, advocates for a civil right to high-quality public education, especially post-pandemic. He emphasizes that public school parents, particularly from marginalized communities, should have a voice in education policymaking. This movement aims to ensure that educational reforms prioritize children’s needs and promote equity across all schools.

Naomi Shelton, CEO of the National Charter Collaborative, emphasizes the need for educational reforms in charter schools to support leaders of color. She highlights advancements, ongoing disparities, and the importance of community engagement. Shelton calls for increased funding and mentorship for predominantly Black and brown founders to enhance educational opportunities and equity.

Sonia Park discusses the misconceptions surrounding charter schools in a playground conversation, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and education access. She reflects on the pressures of navigating educational choices in a diverse yet inequitable landscape. Ultimately, her insights encourage families to consider the opportunities charter schools provide for all students, promoting inclusivity and equity.

Joe Nathan’s Contributor Column focuses on empowering youth through community engagement, civil rights education, and charter school advocacy. He emphasizes the importance of service-learning, collaboration with local leaders, and communicating with policymakers. Nathan provides actionable questions to inspire educators and families to create effective educational environments and foster future leaders.