Charter Champions: Student Advocacy Training Program
Charter Champions is a leadership and advocacy training program designed to equip Colorado charter high school students with the tools, confidence, and experience they need to raise their voices in support of public charter schools. Students connect classroom learning to real-world civic engagement, developing the skills they need to advocate, influence policy, and lead with purpose. Whether you’re a student ready to lead or an educator ready to elevate a young leader, this is your opportunity to spark change.
The program offers:
- Leadership development through hands-on advocacy experiences
- Public speaking and strategic communication training
- Understanding of public policy and how it impacts education
- Real-world interactions with policymakers and decision-makers
- Opportunities to represent their school community with confidence and purpose
By the end of the program, students emerge as better advocates and bold leaders ready to shape the future of education in Colorado and beyond.
Who should participate?
We are seeking dynamic student leaders who are:
- Passionate about their charter school community
- Ready to grow as communicators, collaborators, and changemakers
- Interested in civic engagement, education policy, and leadership
- Eager to gain practical experience that will support their future in college, careers, and community leadership
Why nominate a student for Charter Champion?
Because student voices matter. The Charter Champions program seeks to empower charter student leaders to become the next generation of advocates for high-quality public education.
Charter Champions gives students the opportunity to:
- Identify and powerfully share their personal stories
- Build coalitions and lead with purpose
- Understand Colorado’s legislative process and how policy is shaped
- Engage directly with elected officials, media, and community stakeholders
- Strengthen their public speaking and advocacy skills
- Represent the voice of charter students in the halls of government
Advocacy Day: The Capstone Experience
We encourage teachers, coaches, and school leaders to nominate students who demonstrate:
- Emerging leadership
- Strong communication
- A desire to make a difference
All nominators will serve as sponsors to the student(s) they nominate. Nominators must be willing to relay important information and ensure winners can attend key events, including Advocacy Day.
If you have any questions or would like further information, send an email to [email protected].