At Success Academy, we feel a moral obligation to advocate to change the public education system that has been failing our country’s children for decades. We work to change it from both inside and outside the classroom — we’ve been holding elected officials accountable since we opened our doors in 2006. 

Every one of us is empowered to show electeds and community leaders what’s possible in public education. Explore our resources to learn more about the Charter School fight for equity in facilities, funding, and freedom, and join us to make a difference for all kids.

To get involved, contact

advocacy@successacademies.org

1. Build exceptional, world-class public schools that prove children from all backgrounds can succeed in college and life;
2. Advocate across the country to change public policies that prevent so many children from having access to opportunity.

As an advocate, you join the ranks of thousands of parents and educators who want to empower and inspire children everywhere. You already know that exceptional work is happening within our classrooms. But did you know that we are also working to share our knowledge and people-power with district schools nationwide? Learn about our free curricular resources and more that we offer for all educators through the Robertson Center!

Our Advocacy team, schools and families are always finding ways to make meaningful connections with the community and the elected officials that serve them. By standing strong together, we’re able to make real change for kids!

Councilmember Erik Bottcher and SA Midtown West MS parents at a local community flu shot clinic - City Council District 3 

Councilmember Amanda Farías and SA Bronx 4 scholars at the Parkchester Greenmarket in City Council District 18. The scholars were on their Kindergarten Field Study for SA’s Farm to Table Problem-Based Learning Unit.

Assemblymember William Colton and the scholars of SA Bensonhurst - Assembly District 47

Senator Leroy Comrie and SA Parent Efrem Barriteau at Local Community Event - 14th Senate District 

Senator Scarcella-Spanton's staff dropped off coloring books for every scholar at SA Sheepshead Bay. We are so grateful! 

Success Academy shares public school space with district schools across the city. Our principals, teachers, and school staff are always looking for ways to lift up the whole community — from working with elected officials on creating new playgrounds to organizing joint clubs with other schools in the building. 

Success has helped secure $15 million in government funding for capital projects that benefit entire buildings.

By partnering with local elected officials, Success schools have helped attract more than $15 million for dozens of projects that make school buildings more beautiful and functional for everyone.

Here are some common misconceptions.

ACCOUNTABILITY

Myth: Charter schools are not accountable.

Facts: Every five years charter schools undergo a rigorous renewal process, which includes reporting on student achievement, financials, and parent satisfaction, and if they fail renewal, they must close.

EQUITY

Myth: Charter schools cherry pick their students.

Facts: Charter schools admit students through a public lottery.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Myth: Charter schools drain resources from public schools.

Facts: Both district and charter schools are funded publicly, but NYC district schools spent $38,000 per student in 2022-23, while charter schools received $18,345 per student.

LEARNING

Myth: Charter schools don’t perform any better than district schools.

Facts: A 2023 national report showed NYC charter students gained the equivalent of an extra 42 days of learning in reading and 80 more days in math over district school peers.

OVERCROWDING

Myth:  Charter co-location causes overcrowding.

Facts: More than half of all district schools are co-located, and have more space per student than charter schools. Only 12% of co-locations involve a charter school. There are currently over 200,000 empty seats that could be used for students who deserve an excellent education! 

advocacy@successacademies.org