What to Know About Side by Side Charter's Executive Director Appointment

What happened with Side by Side Charter's leadership change

Side by Side Charter School announced a new executive director, marking a leadership transition at the charter network that operates schools across multiple states. The appointment reflects the school's ongoing growth and the need to fill a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing operations, curriculum, and strategic direction across the organization.

Charter school executive director positions are typically filled through a formal search process led by the school's board of directors. The board identifies candidates, conducts interviews, and makes the final appointment decision. This process can take several months and involves input from staff, parents, and sometimes community members, depending on the school's governance structure.

If you work at Side by Side Charter, have a child enrolled there, or are considering the school for your family, understanding how leadership changes affect the school's operations and direction can help you stay informed about what to expect in the months ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Executive director appointments at charter schools are decided by the board of directors, not by parents or staff, though some schools include broader input in the search process.
• A new executive director typically takes office within weeks or months of the announcement, depending on when they can transition from their previous role.
• Charter school leadership changes do not automatically affect enrollment, curriculum, or your child's current placement at the school.
• You can request information about the new director's background, vision, and plans by contacting the school's main office or attending a public board meeting.

How charter school executive directors are chosen

The board of directors at a charter school runs the search for a new executive director. They typically hire a search firm or conduct the search internally, post the position, review applications, and interview finalists. Some boards hold community forums or ask for feedback from teachers and parents, though the final decision rests with the board alone.

The timeline for filling an executive director position varies. If the school knew in advance that the current director would be leaving, the search may have started months earlier. If the departure was unexpected, the board may appoint an interim director while conducting a longer search, or they may move quickly to fill the role permanently.

Charter schools are public schools but operate under a contract with a state or local authorizer. This means they have more freedom in hiring and operations than traditional public schools, but they must still meet state standards for academic performance and financial management. The executive director is responsible for ensuring the school meets these requirements.

What changes when a new executive director arrives

A new executive director may bring different priorities, management style, or strategic direction to the school. Some directors focus on expanding enrollment, others on improving test scores or adding new programs. The pace and scope of change depend on the director's background and the board's expectations.

However, a leadership change does not automatically mean disruption to daily operations. Teachers, staff, and curriculum typically remain in place. Students already enrolled stay enrolled unless they choose to leave. The school's basic structure, schedule, and programs usually continue without interruption during the transition.

If you are concerned about specific changes — such as new discipline policies, curriculum shifts, or fee increases — those decisions would come from the new director and board together, and they typically announce major changes in advance through parent communications or board meetings.

How to learn more about the new executive director

The school's website or a press release should include information about the new director's background, previous experience, and educational philosophy. If that information is not readily available, you can contact the school's main office and ask for a biography or background summary.

Many charter schools hold a public board meeting shortly after announcing a new director. These meetings are open to parents and community members and often include remarks from the new director about their vision for the school. Board meeting dates and agendas are usually posted on the school's website or available by calling the main office.

You can also ask to schedule a time to meet the new director or attend a school event where they will be present. Some schools hold welcome events or town halls for parents to meet new leadership. Reaching out to the school's communications office or principal is the best way to find out what opportunities exist.

What to do if you have concerns about the transition

If you have questions or concerns about how the leadership change might affect your child's education or the school's direction, put your concerns in writing and send them to the board chair or the school's main office. Written communication creates a record and ensures your message reaches the right person.

You can also attend a public board meeting and speak during the public comment period, if one is offered. Board meetings are open to the public, and most boards set aside time for community members to address the board. Check the school's website for the meeting schedule and instructions for signing up to speak.

If you are unhappy with the direction the school is taking under new leadership, you have the option to transfer your child to another school, either within the charter network (if it operates multiple schools) or to a different public school in your district. Your local school district can explain what options are available to you.

Understanding charter school governance and accountability

Charter schools operate under a contract with a state education agency or local school district. That contract, called a charter, sets out the school's mission, academic goals, and performance standards. The board of directors is responsible for making sure the school meets the terms of its charter.

If a charter school fails to meet its academic or financial obligations, the authorizer can place the school on probation, require changes in leadership or operations, or ultimately revoke the charter and close the school. This accountability structure means that a new executive director must still perform at a level that satisfies the authorizer and the board.

Parents and community members can file complaints with the authorizer if they believe the school is not meeting its obligations. The authorizer's contact information is usually available on the school's website or through your state education department.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child's school schedule or classes change because of the new executive director?

Not immediately. A new director typically spends their first weeks or months learning how the school operates before making major changes. Any significant changes to schedule, curriculum, or programs would be announced in advance and usually require board approval. You would hear about these changes through official school communications.

Can parents or teachers remove an executive director if we disagree with their decisions?

No. The board of directors has the sole authority to hire and fire the executive director. Parents and teachers can voice concerns to the board through public comment at board meetings or in writing, but the board makes the final decision. If you are deeply unhappy with the school's direction, transferring to another school is your option.

How long does it usually take for a new executive director to settle in?

Most directors spend their first 90 days learning the school's operations, meeting staff and families, and understanding the current challenges and strengths. Major strategic decisions or changes typically come after this initial period. You may not see significant shifts in school direction for several months.

Where can I find the new director's resume or professional background?

The school's website may have posted a biography or announcement. If not, call the main office and ask for information about the new director's experience and qualifications. Some schools post this information in their board meeting minutes or in a newsletter to families.

What if the new executive director is not working out — can the board replace them quickly?

The board can remove an executive director at any time, but they typically give a new director at least a year to demonstrate their leadership before making that decision, unless there is a serious problem. If performance issues arise, the board would work with the director to address them before considering replacement.