National Charter Schools Week launched yesterday, with state leaders affirming the contributions of these innovative public schools. In a Coalition press release, Lindalyn Kakadelis, the Coalition’s executive director, said,
Public charter schools are part of the public school family. Just like different colleges have different strengths, different public charter schools can specialize in areas like STEM or the arts for students interested in those pathways. I’m so proud of the work of public charter school operators, teachers, and especially students.
N.C. Senate Leader Phil Berger said,
North Carolina’s public charter schools offer families the option to send their child to a school that best fits their educational needs and curiosities. The tremendous growth of our charter schools shows how valuable they are to students, their families, and the entire education community.
Read what other leaders have to say about public charter schools here.
Popularity coexists with political fragility
Yet, despite the contributions of charter schools, the movement finds itself at a crossroads. Political uncertainty threatens growth–even as the charter movement reaches peak popularity. That’s the message of a new op-ed from Lindalyn Kakadelis, published by North State Journal.
A North Carolina charter leader is named a 2022 Changemaker
Meanwhile, the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools has released its list of 2022 Charter Changemakers. One of the 10 award winners nationwide is from North Carolina. Her name is Blair Williams and she is the community and communications coordinator at Island Montessori School in Wilmington. Congratulations, Ms. Williams!
Read more about the 2022 Changemakers here. The 2022 honorees will be recognized at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday. Register here.
Participate in other events to mark National Charter Schools Week. Learn more here.
