Starlee Coleman, CEO of the Texas Public Charter Schools Association, emphasized the vital role charter schools play in addressing educational disparities, particularly for marginalized communities, highlighting their accountability in providing safe and effective learning environments for children. Coleman was a guest on a recent episode of the Texas Talks Podcast.

“When you look at Charter School enrollment overall in Texas, about 80% of the students are black or Latino and from low-income families,” said Coleman on a recent edition of the Texas Talks Podcast. “These charter schools are filling a gap that I think we all have to acknowledge is real for low-income communities. We, voters, taxpayers, adults, have allowed school systems to fail low-income communities for a long time, and it is wrong.”

"Charter schools are a way in those communities for community leaders, civic organizations, to come into a community and say, 'Okay, we are going to bring a school where the adults will be held accountable for making sure that children are safe and learning every day,'" said Coleman.

The Texas Public Charter Schools Association (TPCSA) ensures access to high-quality public education for every child in Texas, working alongside ISDs. Public charter schools prepare students for future success, adhering to rigorous standards and contributing to the state's academic objectives. TPCSA advocates for policies that foster continual improvement in public school options, aiming to expand educational opportunities for all Texas students.

Texas Talks podcast is hosted by Brad Swail. The weekly show is focused on public policy in the state of Texas, with insights from the people and organizations that influence it.

The podcast is available on Simple Cast and YouTube.