Bold by Choice: Takeaways from the 2025 National Charter Schools Conference (NCSC25)
Orlando, FL | June 29 – July 2
When we boarded our flights to Orlando for the National Charter Schools Conference (NCSC25), our team carried more than just luggage. We brought a mission to guide us: Bold by Choice.
This mantra sets the tone for everything we do. It reflects how we show up for schools, authorizers, boards, and most importantly, students. From the moment we arrived at the Orlando Convention Center, it was clear: this year’s gathering wasn’t just about education strategy. It was about connection, courage, and recommitting to the promise of public charter schools.
Leading with Bold Purpose
As presenters, special event leaders, an exhibitor and sponsor, the National Charter Schools Institute and Epicenter teams were proud to contribute in powerful ways. We facilitated the Board and Authorizer Homeroom, participated on expert panels, hosted a seminal event, led sessions, and connected with so many that care as much as we do about moving this important work forward.
Whether the focus was governance, innovation, advocacy, or authorizing, we stayed rooted in a belief voiced by our President & CEO, Jim Goenner:
“Charters are a promise—and we are the guardians of that promise and stewards of the public’s trust.” – Jim Goenner
This message resonated across sessions and conversations alike. It anchored our presence and reminded us why this work matters so deeply.
A Reception That Made History
One of the highlights of our time at NCSC25 was our evening reception, which saw record-breaking attendance and unforgettable energy.
But the night wasn’t just about coming together—it was about unveiling something meaningful.
We officially launched The Founders Library Exhibit, a visual timeline that brings the story of the charter schools movement to life. This installation traces the roots, milestones, and key figures that have shaped the charter strategy. The response was tremendous. Attendees were moved, inspired, and energized by the chance to see their work reflected in history.
The Founders Library isn’t just an exhibit. It’s a living tribute to bold beginnings and a reminder of how far we’ve come.
Podcast Launch: Bold Voices, Real Talk
NCSC25 was also the launchpad for our Bold by Choice podcast, a new series built for board members, authorizers, school leaders, and advocates alike.
Featuring roundtable conversations, leadership insights, and practical tools, this podcast is designed to empower those who lead in the charter space. Season 1 is available now, with episodes dropping weekly. Real voices. Real stories. Real impact.
Photo Gallery Now Live
We captured the moments and now you can relive them. From a dynamic homeroom and sessions to exhibit walkthroughs, spontaneous hallway connections, a lively photo-booth, to our biggest-ever reception, view these photo galleries:
Let’s Keep the Momentum Going
Whether we met during the conference or you’re just now connecting with our work,we’d love to continue the conversation.
- Learn more about Epicenter, the platform helping boards, authorizers, schools, and management companies streamline the necessary tasks to keep your schools and operations moving forward.
- Explore how the National Charter Schools Institute supports schools, boards and authorizers through all of your leadership development needs.
💬 Get in touch with our team — we’re here to support your bold next step.
Being Bold is a Choice. And We’re Just Getting Started.
Leaving Orlando and NCSC25, we carried with us more than new relationships and good memories. We brought back a renewed sense of purpose and a deepened commitment to the promise of charter schools.
We’re proud to have stood alongside so many courageous leaders and we’re even more excited for what comes next.
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