Our Why

"I believe every student can thrive with the right ingredients: nourishment to grow, freedom to create, and the love and care that foster a sense of belonging. My work at ASBCS allows me to help cultivate these essential elements for student success."

Johanna Medina, Assistant Director of Strategic Development

"No two people are exactly the same and the schools where they are successful might not be either. I am from a rural community that, at the time, did not have any school options beyond a traditional model; even with wonderful teachers who deeply impacted me, this did not always meet my specific needs. Discovering what school choice existed was a very enlightening time for me. I have worked in charter school operations for the majority of my career, about 15 years. This has given me the chance to experience school start up, the charter renewal process, and support student, staff, and community needs. My own educational path along with my professional experiences have shaped who I am and how I look at the work ASBCS does. I do this work so that all learners have the opportunity to find a quality high school where they feel successful. "

Rebecca Weinhold, Assistant Director of  Customer Service and Accountability

"Growing up in Arizona, school choice was a natural part of my life, and my parents used it to provide the best opportunities for my sister and me. At the time, I didn’t realize that having the ability to choose where you went to school was unique and not the norm across the country. Early in my career, I learned of a mother who had been incarcerated simply for sending her child to a better school outside her district—because she wanted a better future for her child. Stories like this made me realize just how unique and valuable Arizona’s school choice options are, and they deepened my commitment to ensuring that all Arizona families have access to quality educational options. I’m grateful to be part of the effort to ensure these life-changing educational opportunities are available for Arizona’s students and families."

Ashley Berg, Executive Director

 

"As a parent of a student with learning differences, for whom the traditional school model wasn’t the right fit, I value being part of a board that genuinely supports diverse learning approaches and continuously innovates how we think about education."

Alyssa McDonald, Special Projects Manager

"I came to the board in the midst of the COVID pandemic when I realized that I was no longer committed to being in the classroom, where I had taught high school English for seventeen years. I still wanted to be engaged with education in Arizona, and my teaching experience in charter schools showed me how valuable and impactful the work in these schools is for the students and families our schools serve. I have been fortunate to work with charter operators and help them resolve their issues, improve their practices, and continue to serve their communities in more impactful and effective ways. With every classroom I am lucky enough to visit, with every interaction with a charter member, and within every classroom, I get to see the great teaching and learning happening reminds me of my "why". There isn't one moment that made me realize the importance of working at the board, but a continued series of moments that constantly reinforce how important our work is"

Benjamin Minor, Education Program Specialist

"I believe every family in Arizona should have the opportunity to access a school that is an incredible fit for their child. When all families have this opportunity, I believe we can truly move the needle in improving student outcomes. My work with ASBCS allows me to play a small part in moving toward that objective."

Rachel Hannah, Deputy Assistant Director

 

"My professional experiences in charter schools have reinforced my strong support for school choice. I am grateful to live in a state that offers so many unique instructional models that are able to target diverse populations. I love that my work at ASBCS helps to ensure that all Arizona students have the opportunity to attend a school that works for their own individual needs.

Hayley Curran, Education Program Specialist

"When I decided to leave the classroom and seek my next professional challenge, I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to stay connected to education in a new way. That’s when I found myself with the Charter Board. With over 20 years as a public district educator and having raised a son in public schools, I understood that education isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many children, including my own, were missing opportunities to reach their full potential.

At the heart of a thriving education system is the freedom of choice, and charter schools play a key role in that vision. I have the privilege of being part of an agency dedicated to providing innovative, high-quality education. By supporting charter schools in maintaining high standards and accountability, a diverse range of learning options are available, empowering families to choose the best path for their children. School choice isn’t just about options—it’s about ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. I’m honored to continue this mission as part of the Charter Board, where I can play my part in contributing to those opportunities for all students." 

Mary Quaranta, Education Program Manager