The New York Charter Schools Association (NYCSA) is pleased to announce that former New York Governor George Pataki will serve as the Honored Speaker at the organization’s upcoming celebration to recognize the 25th anniversary of the passage of New York State’s Charter Schools Act.

The event, set for May 18, 2023, from 6-8 p.m. at Inside Park at St. Bart’s (325 Park Ave, New York, NY) will bring together leaders in education, policymakers and members of the public charter school community to reflect on the progress that has been made to date and look ahead to the future of charter schools in New York.

Governor Pataki has been a long-time supporter of public charter schools and was responsible for bringing the sector into New York when he signed the NYS Charter Schools Act of 1998 into law. Since that time, he has remained a staunch advocate for the charter community and the hundreds of thousands of students and families served by public charter schools throughout the state since the law’s inception.

“Twenty-five years since the passage of charter school legislation, we are reminded of what can be achieved when educators, parents, and community leaders work together to improve education for all students. I’m proud to have led the effort to establish charter schools in New York State and continue to be a strong advocate for their growth and success,” said Governor Pataki.

“We are so humbled and honored to have Governor Pataki join us for this historic event,” said Anna Hall, Chief Executive Officer of the Northeast Charter Schools Network. “Without him, we would not even be celebrating 25 years of public charter schools in New York. His commitment to the students and families of New York is something to be admired and we look forward to hearing his reflections next month.”

In addition to welcoming Governor Pataki, NYCSA’s anniversary celebration will also feature student performances as well as additional guest speakers from throughout the charter community.

Tickets for the event are on sale now.