WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools announced last night four visionary leaders as the 2025 inductees of the Charter Schools Hall of Fame. Since 2007, the Hall of Fame has honored educators and philanthropists whose groundbreaking contributions have shaped and advanced the charter school movement nationwide.
“These four school leaders serve as inspiration for all of us who believe in the infinite power of public education and public charter schools,” said Starlee Coleman, president and CEO of the National Alliance of Public Charter Schools. “Every day, these transformative leaders show us what’s possible in public education through flexible, innovative approaches that meet student needs, open doors to opportunity, and change lives.”
This year’s honorees include:
Chris Barbic, founder of YES Prep Public Schools in Houston, the first public school network in the nation to make four-year college acceptance a graduation requirement. His leadership helped thousands of students access higher education who may not have had the opportunity.
“I’m truly honored to be recognized among so many inspiring leaders in the charter community,” said Barbic. “I’ve always tried to focus my work in our sector on ensuring students have the opportunities they deserve, and families have the support they need to succeed.”
Constance Ranae Jones, former CEO of Noble Schools, the largest public charter school network in Chicago. From 2018 to 2025, she led efforts to break down financial barriers for families while helping students fulfill their potential and pursue their dreams. In 2023, Noble graduates earned more than $624 million in scholarships for higher education.
“This honor reaffirms my lifelong belief that when we trust communities, empower educators, and put students at the center, transformational change is not only possible—it’s inevitable,” said Jones.
Dr. Elaine Swafford, CEO of Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy, the first all-girls public charter STEM school in Tennessee. When she took the helm in 2012, the school was on the brink of closure. Under her leadership, it earned Reward School status, the highest designation under Tennessee’s federal accountability system.
“I am blessed to have spent most of my 42-year educational career serving underserved youth, watching dreams become reality, to witness families realize that success is absolutely within their reach, proving that high quality education is the great equalizer,” said Dr. Swafford.
J.C. Huizenga, founder and Chairman of National Heritage Academies (NHA). Since 1995, his organization has grown to serve more than 60,000 students across 100-plus schools in nine states. Seven NHA partner-schools have earned National Blue Ribbon Schools recognition, and in 2025, 18 were ranked among the Top 10 Best Charter Elementary and Middle School lists in three states by U.S. News & World Report.
“Throughout the years, many charter school advocates have walked with me to bring high-quality school choice to families,” said Huizenga. “Our mission at National Heritage Academies is to transform lives, and we are celebrating 30 years of impacting students and communities.”
The 2025 Charter Schools Hall of Fame inductees were honored and presented with a plaque at the National Charter Schools Conference in Orlando. From expanding public school access for students to breaking down financial barriers, these trailblazers embody a legacy of advocacy, leadership, and innovation.