Helping leaders launch high–quality charter schools in South Carolina
Who We Are
The South Carolina Charter Founders Fellowship is a statewide initiative supporting mission-driven leaders committed to expanding access to high-quality public education. Through a unique partnership between the South Carolina Children’s Fund, the University of South Carolina College of Education, and The Mind Trust, fellows receive all the tools needed to design and launch strong, sustainable public charter schools. This Fellowship helps leaders launch with confidence and quality from day one.
Two Fellowship Tracks
For Founders
School leaders who have already applied for or secured a charter and are preparing to open a school.
Focus: Launching a high-quality school on time with strong enrollment.
For Future Founders
School leaders who are still refining their school vision and preparing to apply for a charter.
Focus: Building a compelling school model and developing a strong charter application.
What Fellows Receive
Everything you need to design, launch, and sustain a high-quality charter school—fully supported, and fully aligned to your vision.
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All program costs are covered, including travel, lodging, meals, and materials.
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Founder Fellows receive a stipend tied to key deliverables and milestones throughout the fellowship.
Fellows who are not currently employed receive a $100,000 stipend to support their dedicated focus on launching their school.
Fellows who are currently employed receive a $25,000 stipend in recognition of the significant time committed outside of their regular job.
Future Founder Fellows receive a $12,000 stipend tied to participation and progress on key deliverables throughout the fellowship.
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You’ll receive one-on-one support tailored to your school model, alongside collaborative learning with a cohort of high-capacity leaders.
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Fellows receive support in:
School design and academic model
Governance and board development
Enrollment and community engagement
Special education and multilingual learner planning
Talent recruitment and leadership
Financial sustainability and facilities
Charter application development
Launch readiness and performance management
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Visit excellent schools, learn from national experts, and build a network that lasts beyond the fellowship.
Upcoming Info Sessions
May 19, 2026 – In Person, South Carolina Charter Founders Fellowship Info Session
Join The Mind Trust, South Carolina Children's Fund, and the University of South Carolina College of Education for an information session to learn more about an exciting opportunity for charter school leaders.
The info session will review:
Fellowship benefits, including stipends, national learning experiences, and more.
Programming content for founders and future founders tracks.
Application process and deadlines.
Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Time: 5:30 to 7:30PM
Location: Pastides Alumni Center at the University of South Carolina (900 Senate St., Columbia, SC, 29201)
Questions? Contact Bria Gibson at bgibson@themindtrust.org.
June 2, 2026 – Virtual Chat and Chew Info Session
Join this virtual information session to learn more about the South Carolina Charter Founders Fellowship!
The info session will review:
Fellowship benefits, including stipends, national learning experiences, and more.
Programming content for founders and future founders tracks.
Application process and deadlines.
Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2026
Time: 5:30 to 6:15PM
Location: Virtual, Please register to receive Zoom link
Questions? Contact Bria Gibson at bgibson@themindtrust.org.