Helping leaders launch high–quality charter schools in South Carolina

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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.

  • All program costs are covered, including travel, lodging, meals, and materials.

  • 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.

  • You’ll receive one-on-one support tailored to your school model, alongside collaborative learning with a cohort of high-capacity leaders.

  • 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

  • Visit excellent schools, learn from national experts, and build a network that lasts beyond the fellowship.

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Testimonials from Fellows

  • “Through this partnership, I’ve received critical guidance on navigating complex building purchasing and funding questions. Their team has also helped strengthen my thinking on establishing effective operational systems to support a strong, well run school from day one.”

    – Wynsda’ Watson, Founding Principal at Indiana Math and Science Academy Central

  • Their team brought both practical expertise and honest, high level feedback that elevated our planning and ultimately positioned us to better serve students and families.

    — Mustafa Arslan, Superintendent at Concept Schools