NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CHARTER

Human capital nacsa recognizes the impact of human capital needs of the nations charter school authorizers on the overall improvement of quality in the sector. Nacsas human capital initiatives work to increase the number of quality individuals entering the field, to cultivate and develop highpotential talent already working in authorizing, and to build a powerful network of current and future effective leaders to help retain them in the sector. Nacsas initiatives in these areas include its leaders program, the leaders alumni program, an introductory bootcamp delivered in multiple mediums, various cohorts responding to contextual and landscape-based needs, and other targeted asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities.

Research and evaluation nacsas research focuses on identifying and tracking active charter authorizers nationwide; analyzing the academic performance of authorizer charter school portfolios; investigating the implementation of charter school authorizing practices nationally; and pursuing research that informs nacsas policy and advocacy objectives. Nacsas research and evaluation team is also charged with evaluating nacsas progress toward its strategic plan goals. Annual conference nacsa conducts its own annual conference each fall, most recently virtually hosting over 900 authorizers from across the country. The conference features nationally recognized keynote and plenary speakers and a choice of more than 40 highly interactive and practice-oriented workshops developed by and for charter authorizers and focused on issues of topical importance to all who are dedicated to advancing charter schools. Membership nacsa was founded by and continues to serve a diverse array of authorizing agencies including state education agencies, school districts, colleges and universities, special purpose or independent chartering boards, municipalities, and private not-for-profit organizations. Several active and former authorizers serve along with non-authorizers on the nacsa board of directors. Nacsa publishes issue briefs, case studies, and monographs. Nacsa also hosts a webinar series, creates opportunities for shared learning via virtual cohorts, and facilitates meetings that bring together members to discuss special topics of common concern. Member feedback is also solicited throughout the year and nacsa continues to find ways to facilitate sharing and dialogue among members. Members are also connected to other nacsa divisions if they seek additional knowledge or are looking for more customized resources.