November Board Meeting Highlights Governance, Leadership, and Sector Stability
As we shared earlier this school year, the Board will focus each meeting around a central theme that highlights the impact of public charter schools and our work.
This month’s theme is Give Thanks. Lead Well. Plan for the Future. The Board used the meeting to honor school leaders and reaffirm the importance of having strong, accountable governance across the sector.
Chair Shantelle Wright opened the meeting by acknowledging community challenges heading into the holiday season, noting that schools continue to play an essential stabilizing role. “Schools are more than places of learning, they are anchors of stability, connection, and support for students and families when the world around them feels uncertain,” Wright said. She added that the Board’s charge is clear: “Strong governance builds strong schools, and in doing so, honors the trust that families place in public charter education.”
During her remarks, Executive Director Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis emphasized the Board’s role in ensuring quality across all public charter schools. “At DC PCSB, we take oversight seriously because strong governance is the foundation of strong schools,” she said.
Dr. Walker-Davis highlighted two important agenda items: a public hearing on a proposed policy to join two schools, formerly referred to as the mergers and acquisitions policy. The comment period has been extended until Monday, Nov. 24 for the policy. And a presentation on Charter Reviews and Renewals. “These efforts remind us that governance is not just a responsibility, it’s an opportunity to celebrate our school leaders, acknowledge areas for improvement, and plan for a future where every DC student has access to a thriving school,” she said.
The meeting underscored the Board’s continued focus on gratitude, leadership, and long-term planning for the District’s students and families.
To see a list of board actions and watch a video of the November meeting, click here.For recordings of all previous board meetings, visit our YouTube page.
