Texas - CharterFolk

CharterFolk X Vol 4.1, Jennifer Goodman – No School is an Island: An Extraordinary Leader’s Journey to Charter School Advocacy

August 23, 2024

CharterFolk X celebrates leaders in the charter school movement, starting with Jennifer Goodman, Superintendent of Odyssey Academy, who faced challenges posed by Hurricane Ike. Goodman’s transformative leadership emphasized engagement with community systems, advancing advocacy for equitable funding. Under her guidance, Odyssey grew to serve 1,800 students, showing commitment to education and community impact.

CharterFolk Contributor David Akdemir – The Power of Collaboration: Charter Schools Uniting for Educational Excellence

September 14, 2023

Dr. David Akdemir, Executive Director of Harmony Education Solutions, emphasizes the importance of collaboration among charter schools in enhancing educational opportunities. He discusses how sharing resources, advocating for policies, and mentoring emerging schools can lead to innovation and improved student outcomes, ultimately transforming the educational landscape for all students.

CharterFolk Contributor Bryce Adams – “The Kitchen Table”

July 6, 2023

Bryce Adams, Vice President of Government Affairs for TPCSA, emphasizes the importance of diverse school choices for families. He argues for a decentralized approach to education, advocating for high-quality options tailored to individual students. The “Kitchen Table” metaphor illustrates the need for inclusion and empowerment in decision-making about education, rather than exclusivity.

CharterFolk Contributor Mr. Fatih Ay – STEM Innovation – A Trail That Must Perpetually be Blazed

June 8, 2023

Fatih Ay, CEO of Harmony Public Schools, emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation in STEM education. With extensive experience, he leads initiatives enhancing instructional technology and career readiness. Harmony’s focus on early STEM engagement and industry partnerships ensures students gain valuable skills and certifications, preparing them for future workforce opportunities.

CharterFolk Contributor Sehba Ali – The Fight for Brave and Belonging Spaces

February 16, 2023

Sehba Ali, CEO of KIPP Texas Public Schools, emphasizes the importance of providing safe and supportive environments for students in the face of challenges confronting charter schools in Texas. Despite political opposition and funding disparities, KIPP remains dedicated to expanding opportunities for students, advocating for equitable resources, and responding to local educational demands.

CharterFolk Contributor Porsche Chisley – Expanding Our Impact

January 19, 2023

Porsche Chisley, Senior Director at The Mind Trust, emphasizes the organization’s commitment to enhancing education equity in Indianapolis and beyond. The Mind Trust’s success stems from growing charter schools, which exemplify leadership and accountability. Chisley advocates sharing educational strategies with Texas, focusing on community engagement and addressing the needs of 58,000 charter school waitlisted students.

CharterFolk Contributor Starlee Coleman – A Rallying Cry: We Need More Charters

November 4, 2022

The article features Starlee Coleman, CEO of TPCSA, emphasizing the need for more charter schools in Texas. Despite recent challenges, charters have shown improved student performance. Coleman urges stakeholders to reclaim their commitment to innovation and accountability, advocating for expanded options to better serve all children and communities in the state.

CharterFolk Contributor John Armbrust – Austin Achieve: Celebrating a Decade and Learning From Our Scholars and Families How to Best Serve the Community

August 4, 2022

Austin Achieve Public Schools, founded by John Armbrust in 2012, aims to provide equitable, college-ready education for students in Northeast Austin. Over the past decade, it has expanded to serve over 2,500 scholars, emphasizing community engagement, social-emotional learning, and innovative practices, including Restorative Justice and college support programs.

Newspapers Lament But Offer No Suggestions for Better Education Leadership; Lewis Center Shows Us All How to Celebrate the 30th; Don’t Assume Simple Smiles in Red States

April 30, 2021

CharterFolk voting ends tonight, prompting appreciation for Naomi Shelton’s insights on diverse leadership. Articles highlight instability in educational leadership, calling for structural changes. The Lewis Center celebrates its 30th anniversary, showcasing success. Challenges persist in red states, despite wins, calling for a conversion law to empower educators, improving opportunities for all.