PCSD

PCSD had an exciting opportunity to tour one of our charter school partners in Los Angeles alongside many of our CDFI lending partners. Our itinerary included stops at three campuses of Citizens of the World Los Angeles (CWC LA): CWC West Valley, CWC Mar Vista, and CWC Silver Lake Middle School.

The tour was an immersive experience delving into the heart of the CWC LA model. Each visit provided us with a comprehensive understanding of the educational ecosystem found within these campuses. From state-of-the-art facilities to innovative teaching methodologies, we witnessed firsthand the dedication to excellence that defines the CWC approach.

Our time at each school was enriched by engaging presentations and enlightening conversations with school principals and students alike. We had the privilege of hearing directly from the individuals who shape and benefit from the educational environment fostered by CWC LA.

However, it was the moments spent listening to the students articulate their personal experiences with CWC that truly resonated with us. Their impassioned testimonials painted a vivid picture of the profound impact that CWC has had on their lives. From fostering a sense of belonging to igniting a passion for learning, it was evident that CWC represents far more than just an educational institution—it’s a community where students thrive and dreams take flight.

As advocates for educational equity and opportunity, our partnership with CWC LA reaffirms our commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and empowering students in under-resourced communities. The insights gained from this tour will undoubtedly inform our ongoing efforts to support and uplift the next generation of leaders.

Our tour of CWC LA charter schools was not just a journey through hallways and classrooms; it was a profound exploration of educational excellence and the transformative power of inclusive education. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to CWC LA for opening their doors to us and their lending partners and for the invaluable work they do every day to inspire and empower students. Together, we will continue to strive towards a future where every child has access to quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We’re thrilled to announce that our COO, Kahlmus Eatman, has been accepted into the prestigious Pahara Institute Fellowship!

As a Pahara Fellow, Kahlmus joins a distinguished cohort of leaders committed to advancing educational equity and enhancing public education. The Pahara Fellowship is a one-year, cohort-based program that identifies exceptional leaders in the educational excellence and equity movement, facilitates their dynamic growth, and strengthens their collective efforts to dramatically improve public education, especially those serving low-income children and communities. The Fellowship provides an invaluable opportunity for educational leaders to collaborate, learn from each other, and address the challenges facing public education, all with the aim of creating better outcomes for students and families.

Learn more about the Pahara Fellowship and the cohort.

PCSD is participating in two sessions at the CCSA Conference in Long Beach.

EDUCATION SESSIONS

Facilities: Finding the Right Place, and Building the Right Space
March 19, 2024 | 11:15 am – 12:30 pm

Long Beach Convention Center, Room 202A

This lively, interactive session will prepare school leaders to effectively navigate the requirements encountered on the road to finding, securing and developing school facilities. Zoning, permitting, and occupancy requirements, environmental regulations, and design choices and constraints impact the development process. Learn about existing regulations, recent developments, and statewide trends as you build your facilities strategy. We will consider stick-built vs. modular, cost-saving design features, pandemic considerations when selecting a site, PLAs, CUPs, and more. This panel is ideal for those looking for next-level content.

Presenters:

• Mary Grace Houlihan, Project Director, Northern California, Pacific Charter School Development (Moderator)
• John Lemmo, Partner/Attorney, Young, Minney & Corr, LLP
• Patrick Ontiveros, General Counsel & Director of Facilities, Magnolia Public Schools
• Richard Berliner, Principal, Berliner Architects

District/Charter Leases – Can’t We All Just Get Along?
March 19, 2024 | 3:25 pm – 4:40 pm

Long Beach Convention Center, Room 202B

Understand what to consider when negotiating a long-term ground lease with your local school district. How do I bring the school district to the table and get the best terms? What do I need to include in the lease to build what I need, finance the project, and meet all legal requirements? What should I avoid? Hear from veterans about KIPP, Envision, and Ed for Change projects among others. Join us for a lively discussion and find out!

Presenters:

• Jennifer Afdahl Rice, Executive Director, Northern California, Pacific Charter School Development
• Adam Kaye, Director Real Estate, KIPP Public Schools Northern California
• Monique Daviss, Executive Director, El Sol Science and Arts Academy
• Sele Nadel-Hayes, Chief Operating Officer, Envision Schools