More Than Membership

Organizations Advocating for Charter Schools

When it comes to representing and advancing the interests of charter schools, membership dues play an important role in fueling the critical work these organizations perform every day.

Across the country, these organizations are doing the behind-the-scenes work that makes everything else possible. They are in legislative sessions. They are at the table in policy discussions. They are advocating for funding, autonomy, and the long-term sustainability of charter schools.

And they are doing it on behalf of your school.​

Why Membership Matters?

We asked the leaders of these three advocacy groups to share why school support and membership matter.

“When schools invest in the Alliance, they’re not just paying dues, they’re strengthening a collective voice that protects autonomy, advances funding equity, and ensures charter schools have a seat at every important table,” explained Kevin Mason, Executive Director of the Public Charter School Alliance of South Carolina. “When our schools succeed, students succeed, and that’s what drives everything we do.”

At the NC Coalition, Dave Machado leads the only charter group in the state with the unlimited ability to lobby freely at the General Assembly to advance charter interests. While progress is being made, he emphasizes that a stronger membership base strengthens that voice:

“Since our founding, our work has focused on two fundamental advocacy objectives: securing fair funding and regulatory autonomy for charter schools. Although we have celebrated remarkable legislative and policy wins to date, we believe our voice grows even stronger as our membership increases," said Machado.

Advocacy doesn’t stop at legislation. It also includes education, programming, and long-term growth. That is the focus of the North Carolina Association for Public Charter Schools, the largest charter school advocacy organization in the state, led by Executive Director Rhonda Dillingham.

“Through dedicated programming and strategic vendor partnerships, the association provides vital support to charter schools, helping them thrive and better serve their communities. It actively educates the public and legislators by raising awareness and clearing up misconceptions about charter schools,” said Dillingham.

At Prestige, we see firsthand how policy decisions impact day-to-day operations, like funding timelines, compliance requirements, and ultimately, your ability to serve students well.

These organizations exist to protect that work—and your voice is part of what makes it stronger.

Learn More: Strengthening Your Voice

If your school is not currently a member of a state advocacy organization, consider connecting with one below to learn how they can support your mission, provide guidance when needed and amplify your voice.

Visit these advocacy organizations to learn more organizations in your state:

• Georgia Charter Schools Association

• North Carolina Association for Public Charter Schools

• North Carolina Coalition for Charter Schools

• Public Charter School Alliance of South Carolina