Washington State Charter Schools Association (WA Charters)

The choices made in Olympia shape the future of students across Washington. Pinnacles Prep 9th grader Betzy Espinoza shared her story in Wenatchee World, calling her school “a home for the last four years.” Her passion for her teachers and education drives her advocacy for public school funding. Read her powerful piece: https://lnkd.in/g-z3Jq3y

Legislators like State Senator Marcus Riccelli recognize the need for different types of public schools within our education system, acknowledging that “one size doesn’t fit all.” He specifically points to schools like his district’s Lumen High School, which serves the educational needs of teen parents. Learn more about the importance of charter public schools to our state’s public education system: https://lnkd.in/g_bRPJRQ

We’re officially over the halfway mark in this year’s legislative session. This week join us on Wednesday, March 19 at 6:30pm PT to learn more from the WA Charters team about recent legislative policy updates and what’s coming up in the second half of session. This free, public event welcomes all who want to support and learn more about charter public schools. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gFc8eEvs

Recent data shows that students who may have historically struggled in a traditional school are finding a public school option with charters that fits their needs. Maintaining funding for these students helps ensure all of our kids have access to high-quality public education in Washington. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ghDbxBJY

Pinnacles Prep 9th grader Betzy Espinoza is a staunch advocate for her charter public school. Read her recent op-ed in Wenatchee World asking state leaders to support students like her and make education funding a top priority. We are in awe of our student leaders! https://lnkd.in/g-z3Jq3y

Read how Assistant Principal Adrienne Lee-Kernell's dedication to inclusive education led her to Rooted School Vancouver—and why closing funding gaps for public school students is essential for her school and charter public schools across the state. https://lnkd.in/gQwnDU7i

Read more from Inlander on how Spokane’s charter public schools are improving outcomes for students across the region, with attributes such as personalized student-teacher relationships, diverse staff, and flexible curriculum all contributing to strong student success. https://lnkd.in/g_bRPJRQ

“High-quality public schools are inseparable from the fabric of an informed society.” Read more from WA Charters Executive Director Chris Korsmo on the responsibility of our state Legislature to maintain funding for all public school students — whether from traditional, tribal compact, or charter public schools. https://lnkd.in/ghDbxBJY

Exciting News from the Washington State Charter Schools Association! We are thrilled to welcome Cindi Williams and Dr. Ayanna L. Gore to the Washington Charter School Association Board! Cindi Williams brings a powerhouse of expertise in education advocacy and communications. As the CEO of Waypoint Education Partners and co-founder of Learning Heroes (US), she has spent her career ensuring families, policymakers, and educators have the tools they need to support student success. From partnering with nonprofits and government leaders to driving transformational policy changes, Cindi’s leadership is instrumental in making public education more effective and equitable for all students. Of note, she is the former board chair of the Washington State Charter School Commission. Dr. Ayanna Gore is a dedicated educator and school leader whose passion for equity and instructional excellence has driven real change. She is the Vice President of Selection at Teach For America, and also the CEO and founder of Gorejus Inc, an organization that consults and coaches schools and individuals on health, wellness, and equity. Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, she became the first in her family to earn a college degree, paving the way for future generations. From leading turnaround efforts in Chicago Public Schools to developing culturally competent teaching practices, Dr. Gore’s work centers on empowering educators and students alike. Her motto: “Where teachers learn, students learn!” Cindi and Dr. Gore bring invaluable experience, vision, and commitment to our mission of expanding high-quality educational opportunities for Washington families. We couldn’t be more excited to have them on board! Join us in welcoming these two incredible leaders!

Summit Atlas was recently highlighted in an editorial from The Seattle Times on the need for equitable funding for all public school students. The article describes Summit Atlas’ strong student performance and “family atmosphere” that make students “jazzed about learning.” Supporting these schools supports a healthy public education system in Washington. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gX9tTPXh