The Media is Waging War on My Charter School, Even Though It Helps Underserved Students Succeed

Despite their frequent expressions of support for diverse and economically underserved individuals, the actions of many in the media convey a completely different message. 

It's regrettable that, rather than celebrating the positive impact of educational movements in high-crime, high-poverty neighborhoods, MSNBC chose to air criticism during National School Week, of all times. Investigative journalist Judd Legum recently published a substack piece criticizing my school, Ashley River Classical Academy in Charleston, South Carolina. And it is a prime example of the mixed signals coming out of the media regarding diversity and education.

Legum’s argument is that Ashley River Classical Academy is structured in a way that effectively avoids state oversight or accountability. He highlights concerns that, despite being fully taxpayer-funded, the school design allows it to circumvent state scrutiny, potentially compromising the quality of education and adherence to standards. These claims are inaccurate. 

Specifically, Legum's concerns revolve around the political affiliations of three board members associated with Moms for Liberty and the use of the 1776 Curriculum from Hillsdale College, which he deems biased. However, it is essential to clarify that Moms for Liberty members do not constitute the majority of the board, and none hold leadership positions. Board members are chosen for their dedication to classical education, independent of their private civic activities. 

Our unwavering commitment remains focused on delivering a comprehensive, content-rich classical education. Ashley River Classical takes pride in transcending political labels, be they “liberal,” “conservative,”  “right,” or “left,”, but emphasizing wisdom through a diverse curriculum encompassing literature, mathematics, history, sciences, fine arts, Latin, and physical education. The school prioritizes foundational literacy and numeracy to equip students with skills extending beyond political debates. 

It is crucial to highlight our ultimate goal: nurturing knowledgeable individuals of high character, and empowering them to become young scholars pursuing what is good, true, and beautiful. Our aspiration is to play a pivotal role in fostering free, thoughtful, and engaged citizens. 

Legum's personal attacks, particularly concerning my experience and the performance of Jacksonville Classical Academy East, lack foundation. I have firsthand experience running a school, with a proven track record in education. And his depiction of student performance at Jacksonville Classical Academy East, my former school, is a real disservice to the students there.

The 'F' grade selectively highlighted disregards the fact that the school was in its first year of operation and we inherited a student body from some failing public schools. The metrics he cites pertained to the inaugural year of the school, a period during which students had not accumulated enough time in the school to reach state-level proficiency. It is crucial to consider the ongoing student progress assessments conducted throughout the year, which revealed significant improvement. 

You would assume that education reporters and outlets like MSNBC should champion schools making a difference for underprivileged families, especially one like Jacksonville Classical, which was 50% minority, 40% economically disadvantaged, and 12% special needs.

Quality education for students, regardless of socio-economic background is important to me. Legum himself had that opportunity when he attended the Key School, a highly sought-after private school in Annapolis, Maryland. And I’m glad he had that opportunity. But he shouldn’t close the door behind him. 

It is time to shift the focus beyond the rhetoric surrounding Ashley River Classical Academy. Let us refocus our efforts on real solutions for public school reform. Genuine actions, not distractions, will ultimately benefit every student.