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This year marks the 30th anniversary of the first charter school law. Since then, a fledgling idea to create a new type of public school grew into a powerful movement that has touched millions of students and forever changed the trajectories of their lives. At moments like this, it is natural to take stock, remember the pioneers and reflect on how much has been accomplished. It’s also important to look ahead and consider the future.
The future of the charter school movement is our young leaders. That’s why, as part of National Charter Schools Week, an annual celebration of more than 200,000 dedicated teachers, 3.3 million students and 7,500 public charter schools across the United States, the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools is honoring 30 exceptional young changemakers. They are a diverse group. Some are still in elementary or secondary school. Others are a bit older, and several are solidly established in their careers. But they all have a passion and commitment to using their ideas, talents and platforms to make the world better.