Charter School Insider: Lessons from the Nation's Top Charter School Operators

#70. 3 major enrollment trends and what to do about them ft. Yoni Samuel-Siegel - Founder and Principal at Enrollment Design Studio

Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:25 +0000

Enrollment has become one of the most urgent and complex challenges facing charter schools today. Shifting demographics, increased school choice, and evolving family behavior have fundamentally changed how schools attract, engage, and enroll students — and many traditional enrollment approaches are no longer working.

On this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, is joined by Yoni Samuel‑Siegel, Founder and Principal of Enrollment Design Studio, to break down three major enrollment trends impacting charter schools nationwide. Drawing on more than twenty years of experience as a teacher, nonprofit leader, and charter school COO, Yoni explains how the enrollment landscape has shifted, why enrollment can no longer be treated as seasonal work, and what charter school leaders can do to respond strategically.

This conversation offers practical guidance for charter school CEOs, COOs, and operations leaders who are responsible for enrollment outcomes, financial sustainability, and building systems that support long‑term organizational health in a more competitive market.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CHARTER SCHOOL LEADERS

Enrollment drives nearly every operational decision a charter school makes — from staffing and budgeting to facilities and long‑term planning. As competition for students increases, schools that rely on outdated or seasonal enrollment practices face growing financial and operational risk. This episode helps charter school leaders understand the systemic shifts behind enrollment challenges and offers a framework for building sustainable, year‑round enrollment systems that improve predictability, family experience, and organizational stability.

Interested in becoming a guest?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

#69 Scaling operations across 140+ schools ft. Layne Fisher of IDEA Public Schools

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:28 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, sits down with Layne Fisher, Deputy Superintendent of Operations and Chief Operating Officer at IDEA Public Schools, to discuss what it takes to scale operational excellence across one of the nation’s largest charter school networks.

With 85,000 students and 146 schools across Texas, Florida, and Ohio, IDEA Public Schools faces a level of operational complexity few charter organizations ever reach. Layne shares how scalable systems, talent development pipelines, data visibility, and standardized safety protocols enable IDEA to maintain consistency while continuing to grow. This episode offers critical lessons for charter school leaders navigating growth, multi-campus expansion, and long-term operational sustainability.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CHARTER SCHOOL LEADERS

As charter networks scale, operational complexity multiplies faster than many leaders anticipate. New campuses may be easier to open than to sustain at high quality over time. Layne emphasizes that successful scaling depends on designing systems that can grow with the organization, investing early in talent pipelines, and building consistent operating standards that preserve quality across campuses.

For charter executives, this episode highlights the strategic importance of centralized visibility combined with local execution. Whether managing safety compliance, facilities, staffing, or growth planning, leaders must create infrastructure that enables schools to remain agile while maintaining organizational consistency.

Interested in becoming a guest?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

#68 From Vision to Village: Building Partnerships That Drive Student Support

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:34 +0000

On this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, sits down with Ebonie Durham, Executive Director of Great Lakes Academy, to discuss how strategic partnerships can transform the student experience and strengthen charter school communities.

Drawing on her background in charter school operations and leadership, Ebonie shares how Great Lakes Academy has built powerful partnerships that support students beyond the classroom. From behavioral health programs and emotional tutoring to innovative nutrition initiatives and community-based services, she explains how schools can align partnerships with mission, culture, and student needs.

This episode explores how charter school leaders can identify the right partners, build operational systems to support collaboration, and create sustainable programs that improve student outcomes. Ebonie also shares how an abundance mindset and strong operational leadership can turn partnerships into long-term community assets.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CHARTER SCHOOL LEADERS

Charter school leaders face increasing pressure to support students academically while also addressing broader needs such as mental health, nutrition, and family engagement.

This episode highlights how partnerships can help schools extend their impact without overburdening internal staff. By working with mission-aligned partners, schools can offer services that improve student well-being, increase attendance, and strengthen community relationships.

Ebonie’s approach demonstrates that strong operational leadership is critical for successful partnerships. Schools that build systems for collaboration, accountability, and feedback are far more likely to create partnerships that deliver measurable results for students.

Interested in becoming a guest?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

#67 Leading Through Uncertainty: How CFOs can Balance Mission, Metrics, and Trust

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:58 +0000

Charter school finance leaders are navigating one of the most complex operating environments the sector has faced in years. From declining enrollment and shifting funding models to increasing compliance requirements, CFOs must balance financial sustainability while staying true to their mission.

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, sits down with Michael Wimbish, Chief Financial Officer at Aspire Public Schools, to discuss how finance leaders can lead through uncertainty while building trust across their organizations.

Managing finances for 36 charter schools across California, Michael shares how Aspire approaches financial sustainability, transparent communication, and data-driven decision making. He also introduces a practical framework that helps leaders think about the biggest financial pressures facing charter school networks today.

For charter school executives navigating today's uncertain landscape, this episode offers valuable insights into how CFOs can balance mission, metrics, and organizational trust.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CHARTER SCHOOL LEADERS?

Charter school leaders today must navigate a rapidly evolving financial landscape while maintaining strong academic outcomes.

As funding pressures grow and enrollment patterns shift, leaders must develop systems that support both financial sustainability and school-level autonomy.

This episode offers practical insights for charter school executives, CFOs, and operations leaders on how to:

Build financial frameworks for long-term sustainability
Communicate financial realities across large organizations
Use data to forecast enrollment and budget planning
Balance mission-driven investments with financial discipline

For charter networks operating multiple schools, these strategies are essential for leading through uncertainty while maintaining trust and alignment across teams.

Interested in becoming a guest?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

#66 Balancing Freedom & Autonomy while Building Systems in School Operations

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:16 +0000

Running a charter school network requires a delicate balance: empowering campus leaders while maintaining the systems that keep an organization running smoothly.

In Episode #66 of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, sits down with Jason Mellen, Network Director of Operations and Compliance at AppleTree Institute for Education Innovation in Washington, DC.

Jason oversees operations across 13 micro-campuses serving early childhood learners, where each school operates with unique needs—but must still align with network-wide standards.

In this episode, Jason shares practical strategies for balancing autonomy and accountability, building operational guardrails, and strengthening the principal–operations partnership that drives operational excellence.

From designing smarter budget systems to improving team collaboration and reducing campus conflict, this conversation offers valuable insights for charter school leaders responsible for scaling systems without stifling innovation.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CHARTER SCHOOL LEADERS

Charter school networks face a unique operational challenge: they must maintain consistent standards across schools while allowing individual campuses to adapt to local needs.

Without strong operational systems, networks risk:

Inconsistent student experiences across campuses
Budget mismanagement
Operational confusion between leadership roles
Knowledge loss due to staff turnover

Interested in becoming a guest?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

#65 How to develop your people using a competency based framework ft. Cynthia Leger, Sr. Director of Ops Leadership Development

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 02:00:25 +0000

In Episode 65 of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, sits down with Cynthia Leger, Senior Director of Operations Leadership Development, at Uncommon Schools, to explore one of the most critical challenges facing charter school executives today: how to intentionally develop people at scale.

Cynthia breaks down what it really means to use a competency-based framework for leadership development—moving beyond vague performance expectations into clear, teachable, and measurable skills. Instead of relying on intuition or personality-based leadership models, Cynthia explains how schools can build systems that help every team member grow with clarity, consistency, and purpose.

This episode is a must-listen for school leaders who want to:

Build stronger leadership pipelines

Reduce burnout and turnover

Create transparent growth pathways

Align talent development with organizational goals

Whether you're developing principals, operations leaders, or central office staff, this conversation delivers practical insights you can implement immediately.

Interested in becoming a guest?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

# 64 Why 2026 May Be the Toughest Health Insurance Renewal Year Yet (and What Charter Schools Can Do About It) ft. Gary Clark, Head of HUB Charter Practice

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:00:22 +0000

Health insurance renewals are shaping up to be one of the biggest financial stressors charter schools will face heading into 2026. In this episode, Daniel sits down with Gary Clark, Senior VP at HUB International and head of HUB’s national charter school health practice, to break down why this renewal cycle is projected to be the most challenging in decades—and what school executives can do right now to protect their budgets.

Gary explains the macro forces driving unprecedented premium increases: delayed inflationary impact on provider contracts, rising hospital and pharmacy costs, and a surge in million-dollar claims nationwide. He also reveals surprising insights specific to charter schools, particularly high maternity costs and rising mental health utilization.

The conversation demystifies health plan structures (fully-insured, level-funded, self-funded, and captives) and shows why choosing the right structure can unlock control, flexibility, and meaningful cost savings. Gary also shares real-world examples of charter networks that reduced costs, built reserves, and improved employee benefits through strategic plan design.

Whether you’re a CEO, CFO, HR leader, or board member, this episode gives you actionable steps to prepare for 2026, avoid budget shocks, and approach health insurance as a strategic advantage, not a liability.

Interested in becoming a guest?

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# 63 A masterclass on master schedules ft. Matt Troha of Timely (former COO at Mastery Charter Schools)

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 02:00:15 +0000

Master scheduling isn’t just a logistical task—it’s a strategic lever that shapes student outcomes, staff experience, and long-term sustainability. In this episode, Daniel sits down with Matt Troha, former COO of Mastery Charter Schools and now Partnerships Manager at Timely, to unpack why the master schedule is often the most dreaded project of the year—and how AI, data-driven models, and smarter operational design are changing everything.

With 20 years of K–12 experience, Matt walks listeners through:

-How strategic priorities must inform the instructional model.

-Why accurate enrollment projections determine financial health.

-How adult-centric constraints can unintentionally weaken student schedules.

-What zero-based scheduling can do for efficiency.

-Why traditional tools (Excel, sticky notes, whiteboards) can’t keep up.

-And how AI-powered scheduling is saving schools weeks, not days.

Charter executives will walk away with a deeper understanding of how to align mission, budget, and instruction; using a schedule as a strategic asset rather than a burden.

Interested in becoming a guest?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

# 62 A Realistic Approach to Your Next Facility Project ft. John Sun, CEO of Blueprint

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 02:00:30 +0000

Facilities planning isn’t just a real estate decision — it’s a strategic leadership moment that shapes a school’s long-term viability, culture, and stability.

In this episode, Daniel sits down with John Sun, CEO of Blueprint (formerly Pacific Charter School Development) — a nonprofit facility solutions partner that has supported charter schools for over 20 years. John brings deep experience in helping charter leaders navigate financing, real estate development, and the decision-making required to secure sustainable school homes.

From incubating in shared spaces to sequencing financing across growth stages, John outlines a clear, grounded framework for leaders who want to move from “dream building” to viable facility strategy — without losing sight of mission, culture, or financial health.

Whether you're in year zero planning mode, thinking about scale, or facing tough space constraints, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and next steps.

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# 61 Staff Budgeting from First Principles ft. Richard Royal, Executive Director of Denver Language School

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:00:20 +0000

What happens when your mission requires more staff, but your budget says less spending?

In this insightful episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Richard Royal, Executive Director of Denver Language School (DLS) — a top-performing K–8 immersion charter in Colorado — to explore how to build a sustainable staffing and budgeting model from first principles.

Richard shares how DLS achieves exceptional outcomes in both Mandarin and Spanish immersion programs while facing lower per-pupil funding than district peers. He walks us through his strategic shift in staff compensation, the challenges of realigning pay scales, and the importance of leading with transparency and mission alignment.

From tough board conversations to courageous leadership decisions, this episode is a masterclass in strategic budgeting for charter school executives — balancing people, purpose, and performance.

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# 60 Best practices for working with your authorizer, featuring Kathryn Connell-Espinosa

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:00:27 +0000

Strong authorizer relationships are the foundation of long-term charter school success — but they can also be one of the most misunderstood.

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Kathryn Connell-Espinosa, Executive Director of the SUNY Charter Schools Institute, to discuss what effective collaboration between schools and authorizers really looks like.

Kathryn shares more than a decade of insight from overseeing 237 charter schools across New York, offering a rare glimpse into what makes great authorizer-school partnerships thrive. She explains how open communication, strong governance, and early transparency can help schools avoid pitfalls — and why authorizers are most successful when the schools they serve succeed.

Whether you’re a school leader, board chair, or new founder, this episode will help you build stronger, more productive relationships with your authorizer — and understand the key role they play in your school’s accountability, growth, and long-term success.

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# 59 How to maximize your time as a leader, ft. Missy Couch CEO of CheckBox Pro

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 02:00:29 +0000

On Episode #59 of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Missy Couch, Founder & CEO of Checkbox Pro LLC, to discuss one of the most pressing challenges in charter school leadership: time.

Missy shares how Checkbox Pro helps school leaders reclaim their schedules, avoid burnout, and refocus on the work that truly moves their schools forward. From practical tips on delegation and boundaries to maximizing technology without letting it take over your life, this episode is packed with strategies to help executives lead effectively and sustainably.

Whether you're a founding school leader juggling it all or part of a growing network managing multiple campuses, this episode will show you what’s possible when you gain back control of your time—and your sanity.

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Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

# 58 Changing the culture of enrollment operations featuring Yoni Samuel-Siegel

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:00:24 +0000

Enrollment isn’t just about filling seats—it’s about building a culture where every staff member understands their role in sustaining and growing a school community.

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Yoni Samuel-Siegel, Chief Operating Officer at Prospect Schools in Brooklyn, NY. With 25 years in education, Yoni shares how Prospect shifted from relying on word-of-mouth enrollment to building a structured, data-informed culture of recruitment and retention.

From creating seamless family experiences to introducing CRMs like HubSpot, Yoni unpacks how Prospect Schools aligned operations, leadership, and community to achieve double-digit enrollment growth. If you’re a charter school executive wondering how to transform your enrollment strategy into a network-wide movement, this episode is for you.

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# 57 How a health insurance change generated $1.4M in savings for Windsor Charter Academy

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 02:00:21 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President of BuyQ, sits down with SarahGennie Colazio, Director of Finance & HR at Windsor Charter Academy.

What happens when a charter school dares to rethink one of its biggest expenses—employee health insurance? For Windsor Charter Academy, the answer was staggering: $1.4 million in savings over six years.

SarahGennie shares how her school shifted from a traditional fully insured model to a self-funded captive insurance plan, unlocking cost savings while enhancing employee benefits. From IVF coverage and hearing aids to mental health support and retention bonuses, Windsor turned financial savings into a stronger culture of care.

This episode is a case study in financial strategy, employee retention, and innovation—perfect for school leaders looking to stretch every dollar while supporting their teams.

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# 56 Getting Your Board Unstuck: Revitalizing Your Charter School Board

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 02:00:25 +0000

Is your charter school board stuck in operational weeds instead of leading with vision? In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli speaks with Carrie Irvin of Bellwether and John Troy of WorkTogether, two national experts in board development and executive leadership.

Together, they explore how charter school executives can revitalize underperforming boards, build stronger governance cultures, and create true strategic partnerships between leadership and the board.

You’ll learn how to shift your board’s focus from micromanagement to mission-driven leadership, why curiosity and trust are essential for board engagement, and how to address dysfunction using tools like board retreats, coaching, and honest conversations.

If you're navigating a stagnant board, facing board turnover, or stepping into a new leadership role, this episode offers clear takeaways and expert guidance to help you get your board unstuck—and unlock your school’s full potential.

Interested in becoming a sponsor?

Learn more: buyq.org/podcast

#55 The Power of People & Performance Management ft. Dr. Richard Seigler-Carter of the LeveragED Foundation

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 01:00:22 +0000

In Episode 55 of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Dr. Richard Seigler-Carter, Managing Director of the LeveragED Foundation, to unpack a powerful truth: schools don’t thrive on curriculum alone—they thrive on people.

Dr. Seigler-Carter shares his journey from dance teacher to principal to leading 14 high-performing schools, and now shaping leadership development nationwide. Together, they tackle one of the most overlooked elements of school success—people and performance management—and why investing in leaders is the ultimate investment in students.

This conversation explores how charter school executives can create a culture of feedback, differentiate leadership for diverse teams, and implement business-inspired management systems that still honor the relational nature of education.

If you’re a school leader wondering how to better develop your people while managing systems and performance without losing your soul—or your staff—this episode is your roadmap.

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#54 Beyond desks and chairs... operationalizing innovative FF&E upgrades

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 03:00:26 +0000

In Episode 54 of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Susan Jenkins and Dr. Earl Metzler of Hertz Furniture to discuss how charter schools can go beyond desks and chairs and operationalize truly innovative FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) upgrades.

They share practical, real-world strategies for reimagining learning spaces—from flexible seating to collaborative layouts—and emphasize that the physical classroom should support how you teach, not just what you teach.

Whether you're working with a new build, a single pilot classroom, or a limited budget, you'll walk away from this episode with actionable insights to align your academic vision with a flexible, future-ready learning environment.

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#53 Mastering Teacher Onboarding for Lasting Impact With Keith Vigraham, VP of HR at Vertex Education

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:24 +0000

When it comes to teacher retention, onboarding isn’t just the first step—it’s the foundation. In this episode, Keith Vigraham, VP of HR at Vertex Education, shares his two decades of experience working with charter schools across the country to break down what a successful onboarding process really looks like. From the moment a teacher signs an offer letter to their first chaotic day in the classroom, Keith offers smart, tactical advice to ensure your staff not only stays—but thrives.

He and host Daniel Casselli dive deep into why onboarding is your school's first cultural impression, the difference between pre-service and mid-year onboarding, and how to creatively engage staff through every phase. Whether you're a seasoned operator or rethinking your process for the upcoming school year, this episode offers actionable takeaways you can implement now.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#52 Staffing based on… personalities? Featuring Racheal Sewards, Founder of Solare Collegiate Charter School

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 00:00:30 +0000

What if staffing decisions weren’t just about qualifications—but also about personalities, team dynamics, and leadership potential?

In this energizing episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, sits down with Racheal Sewards, Founder and Executive Director of Solare Collegiate Charter School. Racheal shares how her school is challenging traditional staffing models by redistributing leadership roles to classroom teachers and aligning teams based on interpersonal chemistry—not just credentials.

With a bold blend of restorative justice, teacher stipends, and grade-level leadership teams, Racheal is redefining what it means to lead in a post-COVID charter school world. Whether you're scaling your school, dealing with high turnover, or reimagining your org chart, this episode is packed with real strategies and innovative thinking you can borrow (and steal!).

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#51 Ops Team Essentials: Building Trust & Running Effective Meetings with Jill Dunchick

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 00:00:25 +0000

Great operations leaders don’t just get things done—they build teams that trust each other, communicate clearly, and move fast together.

In this episode, Jill Dunchick—veteran educator, school leader, and leadership coach—joins Daniel Casselli to deliver one of the most practical, tactical conversations yet. Jill shares how charter school ops leaders can create aligned, high-functioning teams by investing in trust and organizing their time wisely.

From building psychological safety using Brene Brown’s BRAVING framework to running truly intentional meetings, this episode gives school executives a playbook for developing stronger ops teams—starting now.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#50 Building Systems & Culture from Day 1, featuring Dermoth Mattison,

Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:26 +0000

What does it really take to build a charter school from scratch—and do it well?

In this milestone 50th episode, we sit down with Dermoth Mattison, founder of South Shore Charter School, to explore how intentionality in the early days can lay the groundwork for a thriving school culture and academic excellence. From rigorous SUNY authorizer expectations to community-driven design, Dermoth walks us through the highs and hurdles of opening a school that serves both heart and head.

Discover how systems and culture are inseparable, how South Shore hit a 99% student success rate in its first year, and why your Plan B (and C) might be the key to unlocking long-term success.

If you're a school leader, executive, or founder planning your next move—this is the episode you didn’t know you needed.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#49 Mastering Charter School Enrollment: Missteps, Metrics & Marketing Tips

Fri, 16 May 2025 01:00:25 +0000

What do growing charter schools have in common? In this special compilation episode of The Charter School Insider, we’re bringing together the sharpest insights from enrollment-focused conversations with top charter leaders.

Hear from:

Bill Knous on the power of community engagement
Vanessa Segovia Barry on parent perception and enrollment blind spots
Maria Blencowe on scaling enrollment with limited marketing resources
Dallan Wortham on leveraging SEO, paid search, and platform tools

You’ll walk away with practical answers to questions like:

What are schools getting wrong about enrollment?
How can teams with small budgets still make an impact?
What does “data-driven” actually look like in school marketing?
Whether you're launching a new campaign or refining an existing strategy, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to drive sustainable enrollment growth.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#48 Top Leadership Lessons and Insights from Year One of the Seminar Community with Jen Davis Wickens

Fri, 09 May 2025 01:00:22 +0000

In this special live episode, recorded at the Colorado League of Charter Schools Conference 2025, host Daniel Casselli sits down with powerhouse education leader Jen Davis Wickens. As the founder of Impact Public Schools and co-founder of Seminar—a national community platform for charter leaders—Jen shares the top leadership insights, trends, and challenges emerging from Seminar’s first year.

With over 1,500 school leaders across the country now connected through Seminar, Jen brings a national perspective on the evolving needs of charter leadership today. From succession gaps and post-COVID recovery to the urgent demand for tactical skills in enrollment, governance, and fundraising, this episode offers a timely pulse-check on the movement. Jen’s reflections on what makes today’s leaders uniquely positioned to shape the next era of charter education will inspire and inform anyone working to elevate their school community.

Want to learn more, visit: www.buyq.org

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#47 Ratings 101 with Blake Cullimore, Vice President - Senior Analyst at Moody's Ratings

Fri, 02 May 2025 00:00:17 +0000

Understanding bond ratings can be a game-changer for charter school leaders navigating facility financing. In this episode, Daniel Casselli sits down with Blake Cullimore, a senior analyst at Moody’s Public Rating Finance Group, to demystify the world of bond ratings and their impact on charter schools. Blake shares insights into the rating process, key financial and qualitative factors that shape ratings, and how schools can prepare for future facility financing. Whether you're considering a bond rating or just want to deepen your financial acumen, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#46 Data-Driven Decision Making with James Cryan, Founder of Willow Education, Former CEO of Rocky Mountain Prep

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:26 +0000

What happens when a charter school leader takes a hard look at the data—and doesn’t look away? In this episode, The Charter School Insider Podcast host Daniel Casselli welcomes James Cryan, founder of Willow Education and former CEO of Rocky Mountain Prep, for a deeply reflective conversation on the power (and pitfalls) of data-driven leadership.

From jaw-dropping statistics about post-secondary outcomes to the tough calls that come with mission-driven leadership, James opens up about what it takes to move beyond surface-level metrics and drive meaningful, lasting change for students. You’ll hear why 100% college acceptance may not be the win you think it is, how to connect KPIs with real student stories, and why having “bathroom goals” might just revolutionize your school culture.

If you’re a charter school executive grappling with how to make data work for you (instead of overwhelming you), this episode is your playbook.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#45 Serving the community IS the goal… enrollment is the byproduct - featuring Brilla Public Schools COO Reyes Claudio

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 02:00:24 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider, we’re joined by Reyes Claudio, the dynamic Chief Operations and Community Relations Officer at Brilla Public Schools. Reyes takes us deep into what it really means to serve a community — not just in theory, but in day-to-day practice.

She shares Brilla’s powerful philosophy that community engagement is not a tactic but a foundational value — and how that authenticity naturally drives enrollment. From transforming main offices into neighborhood resource hubs to throwing epic Bronx-style block parties, Brilla is rewriting the rules of school marketing through genuine connection. If you’re looking for strategies that don’t just boost numbers but build legacy, this is an episode you can’t miss.

Learn more: https://buyq.org/podcast

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#44 The importance of financial storytelling featuring Neil Shah, serial CFO

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 05:00:23 +0000

Financials aren’t just numbers—they tell a story. In this episode, Neil Shah, a seasoned CFO for nonprofits, joins Daniel Casselli to break down the power of financial storytelling and why it’s essential for charter school leaders. From understanding financial data to using it to make strategic decisions, Neil shares practical insights on how to translate financial reports into compelling narratives that drive action. Whether you’re navigating budgeting, forecasting, or fundraising, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you become a better financial storyteller.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#43 How to increase attendance rates with Al Dawe, COO at University Prep

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 02:00:26 +0000

Chronic absenteeism has surged in schools post-COVID, creating significant challenges for student success. In this episode, The Charter School Insider Podcast host Daniel Casselli sits down with Alastair Dawe, COO at University Preparatory Schools, to discuss how his team tackled attendance issues head-on. From crafting a school-wide culture of attendance to implementing data-driven incentives and intervention strategies, Al shares the journey that moved University Prep’s attendance rates back toward pre-pandemic levels. Tune in for actionable insights on driving student engagement and attendance in your school community.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#42 Making sense of board committees with Mike Mizzoni, Chief Governance Officer at BoardOnTrack

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 02:00:20 +0000

Charter school boards are responsible for overseeing multimillion-dollar organizations, yet most only meet for 20 hours a year. So how do the best boards ensure effective governance? The answer: committees. In this episode, The Charter School Insider Podcast welcomes Mike Mizzoni, Chief Governance Officer at BoardOnTrack, to break down the key role committees play in school leadership. Mike shares practical strategies to move beyond “paper committees” and establish high-functioning teams that drive real impact. From finance and governance to CEO support, we explore the committees every charter school needs—and how to make them work.

To learn more visit: https://buyq.org/podcast

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#41 The most beautiful school in… the world? Facilities management strategies with Raymie Fernandez, COO at DREAM Charter School

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 02:00:23 +0000

Managing school facilities isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it’s about creating spaces that inspire learning and reflect a school's mission. In this episode, The Charter School Insider Podcast welcomes Raymie Fernandez, Chief Operating Officer at Dream Charter School, to unpack the strategic side of facilities planning. With a background in operations and instructional leadership, Raymie shares how Dream transformed an abandoned ice factory into one of the world’s most stunning school campuses and offers insights into navigating capital projects, facility design, and long-term maintenance planning.

From proactive facilities management to ensuring alignment with organizational goals, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for charter school leaders looking to expand and improve their campuses.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#40 What leaders can learn from THE job board for transitioning teachers with Josh Czupryk from Josh's K12 Jobs Blast

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 02:00:35 +0000

Finding and retaining great educators is one of the biggest challenges in charter schools today. In this episode, Daniel Casselli sits down with Josh Czupryk, the creator of Josh’s K12 Job Blast, a go-to resource for educators exploring new career opportunities. Josh shares his journey from being a teacher and charter school leader to running a widely used job board that connects transitioning educators with their next role.

The conversation dives deep into why teachers are leaving, what they truly want beyond higher salaries, and how school leaders can be proactive in retaining top talent. Josh also shares insights from over 80,000 job postings, revealing hiring trends and practical strategies that charter school executives can use to build stronger, more sustainable teams.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#39 From 15% staff retention to 95%... shifting mindsets to turn around school performance with Dr. Sarper Turker

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 02:00:23 +0000

In this captivating episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, Daniel Casselli, President at BuyQ, sits down with Dr. Sarper Turker, a visionary leader in education, to discuss his impressive turnaround story at Arkansas Lighthouse Charter Schools. Dr. Turker shares how he took a struggling school with a 15% staff retention rate and transformed it into a thriving institution with an astonishing 95% retention rate. With a focus on leadership and shifting mindsets, this episode dives deep into the strategies and tactics that led to a cultural transformation, improved staff morale, and better overall school performance. If you're a charter school leader looking for actionable advice to elevate your institution, this episode is a must-listen.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#38 Rebuilding the people team of one of the largest charter networks in the country with Ru Sharma

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 16:39:32 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Ru Sharma, Chief People Officer at Achievement First. With a professional background spanning global giants like Coca-Cola and Amazon, Ru brings a fresh perspective to the unique challenges of building and leading a people team at one of the nation’s largest charter school networks. Ru shares candid insights into navigating leadership gaps, fostering a high-functioning people team, and reimagining talent management strategies for the charter school sector. Tune in to explore a flywheel approach to student achievement and strong lasting teams.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#37 Managing procurement across 9,000+ square miles with no physical classrooms… featuring Tom Tafoya from Visions in Education

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 02:00:35 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli dives into the intricate world of charter school operations with Tom Tafoya, Chief Operating Officer at Visions in Education. Spanning 9,200 square miles without a single physical classroom, Visions has redefined procurement processes to serve over 7,500 students annually. From adopting innovative technologies to partnering with vendors like Amazon Business, Tom shares how Visions scaled operations, optimized efficiencies, and eliminated barriers for families and teachers across Northern California. This conversation is a masterclass in overcoming logistical challenges with entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking strategies.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#36 The 5 things that actually drive teacher retention and sustainability with Zainab Ali

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 02:00:37 +0000

In this conversation, Daniel Casselli and Zainab Ali discuss the critical issue of teacher retention in K-12 education, particularly within charter schools. Zainab shares insights from a recent research report conducted by the Charter School Growth Fund, highlighting the importance of executive team culture, effective change management, and the need for ongoing support and development for principals and teachers. The discussion emphasizes that retaining teachers requires a multifaceted approach, including listening to staff feedback, investing in leadership, and maintaining high standards for recruitment.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#35 $100M for charter schools about to expire… your crash course in E-Rate with CDW

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 01:44:15 +0000

Did you know over $100 million in E-Rate funding for charter schools is about to disappear? This episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast is your ultimate crash course on E-Rate. Host Daniel Casselli dives into this critical topic with experts Cari Warnock and Dave LeNard from CDW, a BuyQ-awarded vendor specializing in education technology. Together, they demystify E-Rate, explaining its two funding categories, eligible services, and the step-by-step process schools need to follow to secure funding.

If your school hasn't tapped into these funds, now's the time to act. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, integrate E-Rate into your broader financial strategy, and ensure your students benefit from the resources they need for digital learning.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#34 Developing a tiered approach for your organization’s budget with Yeime Valle, CEO of Brilla Public Charter Schools

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:00:27 +0000

Join Yeime Valle, Executive Director of Brilla Public Charter Schools, as she shares how her team tackled financial challenges by developing a tiered budgeting strategy. In this episode, Yeime and host Daniel Casselli explore the power of transparency, stakeholder engagement, and staying mission-focused in the face of tough decisions. Perfect for school leaders seeking actionable insights on sustainability and leadership.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#33 Operationalizing school moves with Julie Anne Garretson, Network Director of Operations and School Support at Public Preparatory Network

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 02:00:24 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider, host Daniel Casselli talks with Julie Anne Garretson, Network Director of Operations and School Support at Public Prep. Julie shares her extensive experience managing complex school relocations across New York City, focusing on three major moves Public Prep has navigated over the past two years. These include closing a flagship campus, managing temporary spaces, and the challenges of opening a new facility. Julie offers practical insights into the operational, logistical, and communication strategies that helped the team tackle these significant changes while maintaining high standards of school operation.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#32 Building ops team infrastructure with Tina Dass & Stacy-Ann Brissett, Sr. Ops Directors for Prospect Schools (NY)

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 02:00:27 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, we sit down with Tina Dass and Stacy-Ann Brissett, Senior Operations Directors at Prospect Schools (NY), to explore the critical role of operational infrastructure in driving the success of charter schools. Tina and Stacy-Ann share their insights on how they’ve helped shape efficient operations, focusing on everything from resource allocation and technology integration to data-driven decision-making. Whether you’re an executive looking to enhance operational strategies or improve day-to-day efficiencies, this episode offers practical solutions that can transform the way charter schools function behind the scenes.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#31 Spending $$ on Google & Facebook for your enrollment marketing with Dallan Wortham, Founder & CEO at Charter Connect

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 02:00:12 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider Podcast, host Daniel Casselli sits down with Dallan Wortham, CEO and Founder of Charter Connect, to explore the essentials of digital marketing for charter schools. They discuss the importance of setting appropriate ad budgets, the differences in spending on Google versus Facebook ads, and how to determine cost per enrollment. Dallan shares practical tips for optimizing digital marketing efforts, including the significance of understanding your school's marketing needs, leveraging tools like Google PageSpeed Insights, and focusing on key metrics to maximize enrollment success.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#30 From 8,000 to 10,000… enrollment marketing lessons from the largest virtual charter school in Georgia, with Maria Blencowe

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 23:00:19 +0000

In this episode, we chat with Maria Blencowe, Director of Communications & Marketing at Georgia Cyber Academy, about how they grew enrollment from 8,000 to 10,000 students. Maria breaks down the strategies behind their digital marketing success and how charter schools can drive growth in a competitive educational landscape.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#29 Why succession planning is a mess with Mollie Mitchell

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 00:00:23 +0000

In episode 29 of The Charter School Insider Podcast, Mollie Mitchell, Founder of The K12 Search Group, sheds light on why succession planning in charter schools often falters. With her expertise in executive recruitment, Mollie highlights the need for transparency, stakeholder involvement, and redefining the CEO’s role. Whether you're a board member, CEO, or aspiring leader, this episode offers practical advice for navigating leadership transitions.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#28 You don’t have to do it all, leadership lessons with Executive Coach MK Flynn

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 00:00:27 +0000

In Episode #28 of The Charter School Insider Podcast, “You don’t have to do it all: Leadership Lessons with Executive Coach MK Flynn,” host Daniel Casselli sits down with MK Flynn, an expert in executive coaching and education consulting. They delve into the art of effective leadership, emphasizing that it’s not about knowing everything but about continuous learning and strategic delegation. Discover key insights on balancing expertise, embracing humility, and leading with impact.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#27 The Merger with Tricia Noyola, CEO at Rocky Mountain Prep

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 04:00:18 +0000

In this insightful episode, Tricia Noyola, CEO of Rocky Mountain Prep, reveals the behind-the-scenes details of their groundbreaking merger with Strive Prep. She discusses the strategic motivations driven by declining enrollment and financial challenges, and how setting clear goals led to a unified vision. Noyola offers valuable advice on managing mergers, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges, focusing on the mission, and addressing emotional impacts on staff. She also shares her favorite books for additional inspiration and strategic insights.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#26 What’s missing in your enrollment strategy with Vanessa Segovia Barry, Founder of Mariposa Consulting Group

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 05:52:06 +0000

In this episode, Vanessa Segovia Barry from Mariposa Consulting Group unpacks the secrets to mastering enrollment marketing for charter schools. She emphasizes critical elements often overlooked: goal setting, strategic resource allocation, and adapting to the seasonality of parent behavior. Learn how to enhance the parent experience and leverage automation to streamline communication.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#25 Building an operations leadership pipeline with Trey Vernaci, Sr. Director of Operations at RePublic Schools

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 07:00:10 +0000

In this episode of The Charter School Insider, Daniel Casselli talks with Trey Vernaci, Sr. Director of Operations at RePublic Schools, about the shortage of qualified operations professionals in charter schools, focusing on Mississippi. Trey discusses his innovative solution: an operations leadership residency program covering key areas of operations and offering practical advice for replication. Gain valuable insights to enhance your school's operational efficiency.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#24 5 Best Practices to Turn Procurement into a Pillar of Financial Stability

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:00:29 +0000

In this episode, Daniel Casselli outlines five best practices to make procurement a financial stability pillar. He stresses procurement's role in tough financial times and covers its four core pillars: strategic sourcing and cost management, policies, compliance and risk management, technology and data, and stakeholder engagement. The best practices are: revisiting the purchasing policy, listening to data, developing supplier relationships, standardizing and consolidating, and measuring performance.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#23 How executives can get started with AI, featuring Seminar Co-Founders Jen Davis Wickens & Kristen McCaw

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:38:01 +0000

Jen Davis Wickens & Kristen McCaw are the Co-Founders of Seminar, a national community for charter school leadership development. As school leaders and founders themselves, Jen & Kristen speak to the need for tactical/practical support for executives and we explore how Seminar is tackling this challenge using AI as an example of a hot-button item leaders are currently navigating.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#22 Partnering with your board with Dr. Garland L. Thomas-McDavid, CEO of Brooklyn Lab Charter School

Thu, 16 May 2024 00:00:16 +0000

What's the role of the board? How can CEO's and boards best collaborate to achieve shared goals? We sit down with Dr. Garland Thomas-McDavid to answer these questions and more. She highlights the importance of building relationships, open communication, and leveraging the resources and knowledge of the board. Dr. TM also addresses common challenges, such as navigating the transition from a founder/startup phase to a more mature organization, uncovering and addressing sacred cows, and recruiting the right board members.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#21 Day one readiness planning with Ops for Impact Founder, Megan Thomsen

Fri, 10 May 2024 13:08:46 +0000

We sit down with Megan Thomsen to talk all things "day one readiness". It's never convenient to start prepping for next years opening, but with no plan things get messy fast. Megan shares her experiences as the former director of operations at Ednovate driving day one readiness strategy and optimization. If you are an ops enthusiast who is eager to learn more about process improvement methodologies and systems codification, this is a can't miss episode.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#20 Rooted in community with Jemia Cunningham-Elder, CEO at North Lawndale College Prep High School

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 12:45:20 +0000

In this conversation, Jemia Cunningham-Elder, CEO of North Lawndale College Prep, discusses the importance of being part of the community and developing strong community partnerships. She cites the Peace Warriors program and Phoenix Hall as successful collaborations, underlining the significance of external affairs and ongoing evaluation in partnership sustainability.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#19 Developing shared language amongst your leadership team with Chad Miller, CEO at Pinnacle Charter School

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 16:50:56 +0000

Chad Miller, CEO of Pinnacle Charter School, explores the importance of shared language in leadership, tackling barriers and fostering collaboration. Discover strategies for alignment and growth.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#18 From Operator to Authorizer with Lana Ewing, Executive Director of the Maine Charter Commission

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 00:00:17 +0000

We sit down with Lana Ewing, Executive Director of the Maine Charter Commission, to discuss her experience as a former operator now running the state authorizing body for Maine charter schools.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#17 Getting the people right as you scale with Jason Watts, CEO of Scholarship Prep, and Jason Sitomer, Managing Director at Charter Impact

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 08:00:13 +0000

Hiring is hard. Hiring rapidly to support growth of your organization is even harder. We break down pitfalls and learnings to get hiring right as your school grows into new communities.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#16 Top 7 myths going from 'fully insured' to 'self-funded' with DSST's Nick Plantan (COO) and Ashley Wiegner (CPO) alongside HUB's Gary Clark

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 23:17:32 +0000

We sit down with the Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer of DSST to discuss their experience taking the organization from "fully insured" to "self-funded" as a strategic cost-saving and value creating initiative.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#15 Renegotiating your SaaS contracts... here's what you need to know (solo episode)

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 21:48:31 +0000

If I had to cut $100,000 out of my school/network's subscription costs, here is the 7 step process that I would follow and exactly what your team should know if you want to do the same.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#14 The strategic role of the Chief of Staff with Dan Soleimani, Chief of Staff at Aspire Public Schools

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 05:00:10 +0000

What exactly does a Chief of Staff do? How about one that serves in this role at one of the largest charter networks in California? Tune in to find out!

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#13 Let’s talk school food with Emily Chatelain, CEO and founder of School Food and Wellness Group

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 14:44:57 +0000

In this conversation, Emily discusses the importance of school food programs and the challenges that school leaders face in providing healthy meals to students

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#12 Operations project deep dive with Ellen Lin, COO of Green Dot Public Schools

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 13:42:03 +0000

Ellen Lin, COO of Green Dot Public Schools National, discusses the implementation of a help desk ticketing and knowledge-based solution at Green Dot. The project aimed to streamline operations and improve efficiency by replacing the use of email for ticketing across departments. Ellen shares the challenges faced, the evaluation process for selecting a vendor, and the fast onboarding and implementation timeline. She also highlights the impact of the ticketing system on agents and the organization as a whole. Ellen encourages operational leaders to prioritize projects that align with organizational goals and to think strategically about system redesign.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#11 Responsible financial management with Raj Thakkar, Founder & CEO of Charter School Business Management

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 14:13:03 +0000

We sat down with Raj Thakkar, Founder & CEO of Charter School Business Management, to discuss financial principles for charter schools that have stood the test of time and his new book “Fiscally seCURE: prepare, protect and propel your CHARTER SCHOOL with responsible financial management”.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#10 Developing a framework for grant management with Kim Tarin, Finance & Grant Management Consultant, CIES

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 15:22:47 +0000

A five part framework any charter school can use to manage grants.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#9 Founding & growing a CMO aimed at significance with Colleen Mullen, Founder and Executive Director of Propel

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 19:52:48 +0000

What's it like building a Charter Management Organization? We sit down with Colleen Mullen, Founder and Executive Director of Propel to hear about her journey since founding the org in 2019.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#8 More than the numbers... ensuring finance is mission-aligned while navigating the ESSER cliff with Daniel Bell, Deputy Chief of Finance at Mastery Charter Schools

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:59:57 +0000

Federal funds are sunsetting. Services and staff have been added to support students the last three years. Now what? We sit down with Daniel Bell of Mastery Charter Schools to discuss how they are working to be mission-aligned as they turn the ESSER cliff into a "gentle hill".

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#7 How to “talk the talk” of operations with Anders Lindgren

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 13:48:25 +0000

If you work in operations you have to manage critical functions across a host of service provides while also balancing internal and external needs. In this episode, Daniel Casselli and Anders Lindgren discuss how to manage vendor relationships and “talk the talk” of food service, IT, transportation, and more (even if you are not an expert).

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#6 Values based leadership in an ever-changing landscape with Kennedy Hilario, CEO of ACE Charter Schools

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 15:29:29 +0000

How do you make decisions and prioritize strategic initiatives through the lens of your organizations mission? We sit down to talk leadership principles with Kennedy Hilario the CEO of ACE Charter Schools in California.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#5 Strategic planning and the role of the board with Peter Gudmundsson, President of the Board for International Leadership of TX Charter Schools

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:12:53 +0000

What's the role of the board in setting strategic goals for your charter school? How should the board think about keeping leadership accountable while also understanding the needs of students and staff inside the classroom? Tune in to hear us discuss these questions and more with Peter Gudmundsson, President of the board for International Leadership of Texas.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#4 Listen to your teachers....! Top 5 learnings for administrators from the National Alliance's teacher sentiment survey with Debbie Veney, SVP Communications & Marketing

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 14:41:18 +0000

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools recently conducted a nationwide survey of public school teacher sentiment. Tune in to get the Top 5 Takeaways from Debbie Veney, SVP Communications & Marketing at the Alliance - and the author of the report! If you like this episode follow @charteralliance on social media to get the latest from the National Alliance of Public Charter Schools.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#3 How an operational challenge became an EdTech product with David Berg, Director of Digital Innovation at Big Picture Learning

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:44:55 +0000

Ever come across an operational challenge at your school and thought to yourself, "I could build a product to solve this and save thousands of schools time, energy, and effort..." Tune in as David Berg shares his personal story of building ImBlaze as an incubated project within Big Picture Learning.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#2 Why community engagement should be the foundation of your enrollment strategy with Bill Knous, Director of School Growth at CO League of Charter Schools

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 19:34:32 +0000

If your school is wondering how to develop a comprehensive enrollment plan, this discussion will be a valuable place to start. We sit down with Bill Knous to talk current trends in the landscape of school enrollment (declining birth rates, distrust in educational institutions, charter growth, etc.) and how community engagement can, and should, be the bedrock of an enrollment strategy.

We get into:

Defining community engagement
Developing a school NPS
Doing vs. driving as a leader
How to focus and pull your top 1-2 levers
Whether AI can play a role in your engagement efforts

+Much more!

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#1 Lessons from $100M in bond financing with Mark Kalpakgian, COO at The Classical Academies

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 13:54:56 +0000

In this episode, we host Mark Kalpakgian, COO at The Classical Academies, and he shares his lessons learned from ~$100M in bond financing...

We dig into:

The pros & cons of owning vs. renting your school campuses

Due diligence tips when you decide to pursue a purchase

The benefits of bond financing: rates, money down, etc.

What the bond process might look like for your org

Potential risks to consider if pursuing bonds

Why you should hire a financial advisor

+Tips for evaluating said advisor

His current $32M project

Much, much more!

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org

#0 What to expect from Charter School Insider?

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 15:29:20 +0000

In less than 3 minutes, here's what you should know about the show and what you can expect from each of our episodes.

Interested in sponsorship? Reach out to us at podcast@buyq.org