Their mission to develop and support high-performing public charter schools and drive change in public education stems from their belief in:

All families deserve to actualize a high quality public education that will provide the foundation for future success and growth.  They also believe that they, their schools, districts and other committed partners in this work are equally responsible for ensuring quality and excellence as the standard for the services they provide their students.

Academic and opportunity gaps are real in their public education system. With this in mind, it is essential that they work to create an equitable environment for all of their families that is rooted in social justice and parks sustainable change. From equal funding across schools, fair distribution of quality teachers and legitimate access to a variety of meaningful experiences that foster growth and opportunity, equity is key in closing achievement gaps and expanding opportunities.

Diversity drives change and understanding. They believe that diversity at all levels – from professional backgrounds to race and gender –  is paramount to their individual and their communities’ ability to demonstrate empathy for others, appreciate experiences and think critically about their own personal beliefs and biases.

There is always an opportunity to learn and grow from others. In order to achieve the vision of all students accessing and realizing a high quality education, it is important that they work with, for and alongside a variety of partners, stakeholders and communities.

They operate with honesty, care and candor to build trusting relationships with their communities. They have the courage to have difficult conversations, admit mistakes and stand up for the right thing to do on behalf of children, even if it is not always the most popular.

The success of Tennessee charter schools has not come without its share of challenges and opportunities, but by working together, they can turn choices into change.

Impact

Tennessee is seeing the positive impacts that public charter schools are having on student achievement and growth.

Establishing an entity that could provide on-going, comprehensive support to the growing charter sector in Tennessee was critical to seeing this growth continue. The Tennessee Charter School Center is leading the movement for effective policy, excellent schools, quality operators & informed communities to ensure:

• - High-performing schools have the resources and conditions they need to thrive in Tennessee.
• - High potential schools have the support they need to achieve and sustain excellence.
• - Low performing schools are not allowed to persist without intervention and, in some cases, closure.
• - Communities are educated and engaged in the option and impact of public charter schools.

Focus on:

• - Education and Awareness
• - Policy and Advocacy Leadership
• - Innovation and Incubation
• - Quality and Growth