National Alliance announces Charter Schools Hall of Fame inductees for 2025

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools has announced the 2025 inductees into the Charter Schools Hall of Fame. The honorees include four leaders who have significantly contributed to the charter school movement in the United States.

Starlee Coleman, president and CEO of the National Alliance of Public Charter Schools, stated, “These four school leaders serve as inspiration for all of us who believe in the infinite power of public education and public charter schools.”

Chris Barbic, founder of YES Prep Public Schools in Houston, is among those honored. He established a network where four-year college acceptance is a graduation requirement. Barbic expressed his gratitude by saying, “I’m truly honored to be recognized among so many inspiring leaders in the charter community.”

Constance Ranae Jones, former CEO of Noble Schools in Chicago, also received recognition. During her tenure from 2018 to 2025, she helped students overcome financial barriers to higher education. In 2023 alone, Noble graduates earned over $624 million in scholarships. Jones remarked on her award: “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.”

Dr. Elaine Swafford was recognized for her work as CEO of Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy in Tennessee. Under her leadership since 2012, the school achieved Reward School status. Dr. Swafford commented on her career by stating, “I am blessed to have spent most of my 42-year educational career serving underserved youth.”

J.C. Huizenga, founder and Chairman of National Heritage Academies (NHA), was also inducted into the Hall of Fame. His organization now serves more than 60,000 students across nine states with several schools receiving national accolades. Huizenga noted his mission: “Our mission at National Heritage Academies is to transform lives.”

The ceremony took place at the National Charter Schools Conference in Orlando where these individuals were presented with plaques commemorating their achievements.

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