Founders Library

Oral History

Interview of Betsy DeVos

Betsy DeVos discussed her lifelong advocacy for education freedom, emphasizing the importance of diverse learning environments. She highlighted her role in establishing the West Michigan Aviation Academy and her involvement in Michigan’s charter school movement. DeVos challenged the traditional education system’s bureaucracy and advocated for policies that empower parents and families. She noted the obstacles […]

Interview of Phil Pavlov

Phil Pavlov, former Michigan State Senator, discussed his journey in education policy, emphasizing the importance of parental choice and the role of charter schools. He highlighted the challenges and successes of the charter movement in Michigan, noting the significant increase in charter school enrollment to 150,000 students annually. Pavlov reflected on his 14-year tenure in […]

Interview of Dick DeVos

November 11, 2024. James Goenner, Ph.D. of the National Charter Schools Institute, interviews Dick DeVos, Founder of West Michigan Aviation Academy in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dick DeVos, founder of the West Michigan Aviation Academy, discussed his journey from an uninspired student to a champion for educational freedom. He emphasized the importance of attitude, effort, and […]

Interview of Bishop Raymond Rivera, Ph.D.

\Bishop Dr. Raymond Rivera discussed his background in East Harlem and the founding of the Latino Pastoral Action Center (ELPAC) 33 years ago to holistically empower Latino communities. He highlighted the success of the Family Life Academy Charter Schools (FLACS), which started with one school and expanded to multiple high-performing schools. Rivera emphasized the importance […]

Interview of Graham Browne

Graham Browne, founder of Forte Prep Charter School in Elmhurst, Queens, shared his journey inspired by a life-changing scholarship. He emphasized the importance of creating educational opportunities for diverse students. Browne discussed the challenges of starting the school, including finding a building and recruiting staff, and the initial operation in a daycare basement. He highlighted […]

Interview of Ed Cox

Ed Cox discussed his entry into the charter school movement, inspired by the 1986 “A Nation at Risk” report. He highlighted the effectiveness of Catholic schools, which cost half as much but performed twice as well. New York adopted the Michigan charter school law, emphasizing transparency and fairness. Cox stressed the importance of governing boards […]

Interview of Randy Daniels

Interview of Randy Daniels, Founding co-chair, SUNY Board of Trustees Charter School Committee, New York Secretary of State (2001-05). Businessman, and former CBS News correspondent. With Robert Bellafiore, Founder & President of Stanhope Partners. Robert Bellafiore and Speaker 2 emphasized the need for accountability in public education, advocating for year-round schooling and more direct instruction […]

Interview of Steven Klinsky

Steven Klinsky, a Detroit native and University of Michigan graduate, transitioned from finance to education reform, founding the first charter school in New York. Inspired by his brother Gary, he established the Gary Klinsky Children’s Centers in East New York. Klinsky partnered with civil rights leader Wyatt T. Walker to create the Sisulu-Walker Charter School […]