Freedom to Choose Schools launches with bold commitment to educational freedom and excellence
The Freedom Coalition for Charter Schools has officially rebranded as Freedom to Choose Schools, signaling a powerful evolution in its work to support all school models - charter, microschool, hybrid, or traditional - that center marginalized students and are led by people who reflect their communities.
With a network of 175 affiliates across 11 states, Freedom to Choose Schools is broadening its reach to meet the moment. “Our new name reflects our bigger vision,” said Jay Artis-Wright, Executive Director of Freedom to Choose Schools. “The fight for educational freedom has never just been about one model. It's about the right of parents, especially those whose voices have too often been silenced, to demand better. We are building a movement rooted in self-determination, driven by community, and committed to excellence across all school types.”
The rebrand reflects the organization's expanded work across public charter schools, traditional public schools, microschools, hybrid models, and other innovative options. FCS also announced new additional board members, including Kevin Allin, Atasha James, Nicholas Buford, Janelle Wood and Taylor Shead. Dr. Howard Fuller and Dr. Steve Perry serve as co-founders and advisers.
“Freedom to Choose Schools is not just a name; it's a declaration,” added Choose Schools' Board Chair Cris Gulacy-Worrel. “It means recognizing that real opportunity comes from real choice and families should never have to fight alone to give their child a better future.”
“There is a growing number of Black and Latino families creating new paths to learning and leadership for our children,” said board member Janelle Wood. “Black and Latino educators and parents are creating innovative models to ensure their children get the education they deserve.”
Through its offerings, Choose Schools:
• Supports and trains school leaders to tell their stories and build their base of engaged parents to support their school model.
• Identifies and elevates education stakeholders, especially in key early primary states where the national conversation is shaped. Choose Schools connects lawmakers with their constituents and builds bridges that support successful schools and future leadership.
• Convenes leaders across sectors and school types—including educators, faith leaders, and grassroots organizers—to build alignment and momentum around a shared vision of self-determination, equity, and academic excellence.
• Leads narrative and media campaigns that put the real voices of families and educators front and center in the fight for change.
About Freedom to Choose Schools: Freedom to Choose Schools is a national nonprofit organization advancing educational freedom, equity, and excellence. Formerly known as the Freedom Coalition for Charter Schools, the new organization supports an array of learning options that serve marginalized students and are led by people who reflect their communities. With a growing coalition in 11 states, the organization is showing the success in education when innovation and leadership have power to lead and the parents have the freedom to choose. Learn more, visit www.chooseschools.org.