In this week’s episode of The Learning Curve, co-host Alisha Searcy and guest co-host Walter Blanks interview Shaka Mitchell, senior fellow at the American Federation for Children. Mr. Mitchell shares about his compelling personal and professional journey in education reform. Shaka discusses how his formative experiences shaped his passion for expanding charter public schools, school choice, and empowering families. He reflects on his early work with the Center for Education Reform under Jeanne Allen, and how national leaders like Kevin Chavous influenced his thinking. Drawing on his leadership at charter school networks like Rocketship Education and LEAD Public Schools, Mitchell highlights what makes charter schools in the South successful, especially in Tennessee. Shaka also unpacks the shifting political landscape surrounding charter schools and the urgency of rebuilding bipartisan support. Mitchell discusses his time at the Institute for Justice and the legal strategies behind landmark U.S. Supreme Court victories for school choice. He provides insights into the growing momentum behind education savings accounts, tax credits, and voucher programs. Finally, he breaks down the proposed Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), offering a candid assessment of its strengths, weaknesses, and chances of passage in Congress.
