Episode 46 – A Conversation About Charter Schools
On today’s show, I am joined by a special guest, Ms. Danita Jones, founding principal of Capital Prep Harlem in Harlem, New York, for an important, unique conversation about charter schools. Mrs. Jones is a lifelong educator and principal of the newly-inaugurated Capital Prep Harlem, founded by fellow educator and charter school founder and advocate, Dr. Steve Perry, along with entertainment mogul, Sean “Diddy” Combs. In the wake of the Kentucky legislature enacting a bill to allow charter schools in Kentucky, I wanted to have a frank conversation with this experienced educator and charter school proponent about the realities, strengths, and challenges of the charter school system. Mrs. Jones shares her experience as an educator, her motivation to become a teacher and to influence the lives of other students, and shares her journey to the Capital Prep network with Dr. Perry. We discuss the more controversial issues around charter schools including funding, innovation opportunities, standards and accountability, and management. We look at the role politics has played in shaping the charter school conversation, and we also discuss the realistic metrics for success in charter schools. Mrs. Jones shares valuable insights about her time with Capital Prep in Hartford, CT and Harlem, NY, its 100% matriculation rate, and their school’s unique approach to supporting the personal growth and development of each student beyond their academic coursework. I also ask her what it’s like to be a founder of a new school in New York with an icon like Diddy, and what it means for individuals with unparalleled platforms to lend their voice to these education discussions.
This is an illuminating conversation about charter schools, and one that can offer guidance around a controversial topic. Please take a moment to listen and enjoy this important episode. Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts!
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