NYC NOW Evening Roundup: Thousands Participitate in March for Charter Schools After the CEO of Success Academy Pressured Staff to Lobby for Them
Sep 18, 2025
Elizabeth Kim, a WNYC reporter known for her insightful political coverage, discusses a significant rally for charter schools in Brooklyn. She reveals a recording of Success Academy's CEO, Eva Moskowitz, urging staff to lobby for charter support, shedding light on shifting political dynamics. The conversation delves into Moskowitz's concerns over funding cuts and the implications of a pro-union mayoral candidate. The podcast dives deep into how charter advocacy has become a crucial battleground in New York City's political landscape.
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Large Pro-Charter Rally And Student Story
- Thousands filled Cadman Plaza for a pro-charter rally with students, parents, educators, and performances such as Common.
- Student Alina Valenzuela described switching to a charter for better math, reading, activities, and prizes.
What Charter Schools Are
- Charter schools are publicly funded but run independently, giving them more flexibility than district schools.
- They enroll about 150,000 students, roughly 15% of New York City's public school population.
Expansion Barriers For Charters
- Charter advocates want the state cap lifted and easier access to space to expand their schools.
- Co-location approval processes currently make finding space a major barrier for charters.