National Alliance applauds Kirsten Baesler's confirmation as assistant secretary at Department of Education

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools has congratulated Kirsten Baesler on her confirmation as Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education.

Starlee Coleman, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, issued a statement following Baesler’s confirmation. “On behalf of nearly 4 million charter school students nationwide, I would like to congratulate Kirsten Baesler on her confirmation as Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education. I also want to thank the Senate for its bipartisan support in confirming such a strong advocate for students.

Assistant Secretary Baesler has long been a champion of charter school students, driving real change in her home state of North Dakota and earning respect on both sides of the aisle. To this role, she brings more than two decades of experience advocating for student-centered learning – a commitment reflected in her support of the state’s first charter school law.

We are at a critical moment of opportunity: families have more choices than ever before, while demand for charter schools is at an all-time high. With Assistant Secretary Baesler’s leadership, we can bring high-quality, future-ready public schools to more communities. I look forward to working together to ensure every child, everywhere, has access to an excellent public school.”

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools works to advance policies that promote growth and equitable funding for charter schools across the country. The organization supports flexibility and innovation within these schools while maintaining oversight and accountability.

Charter schools are tuition-free public institutions open to all students. They currently make up 8.1% of all public schools in the United States and educate about 7.8% of public school students—nearly 4 million children—with a significant portion coming from low-income or minority backgrounds.

Research indicates that charter schools contribute positively to student achievement and help prepare students for success beyond high school.