How did the charter school movement jump from one bold law in Minnesota to states across the country? In this episode of Bold By Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris, Jim Goenner, and season two collaborator Don Cooper (a charter historian & researcher), travel to Michigan and Florida to explore how state leaders reshaped public education for families and communities.
You’ll hear directly from Governor John Engler of Michigan and Governor John Ellis (Jeb) Bush of Florida, who each pushed through historic charter school laws—though in very different ways.
In Michigan, Engler leveraged executive power and structural reforms to make chartering a competitive force.
In Florida, Bush and Ellis crafted a vision rooted in accountability and equity, building a new structure from scratch.
Together, these stories show how bold leadership, political courage, and strategic design helped transform state systems—and what today’s leaders can learn from their example.
Episode Highlights
Governor Engler recalls how Michigan’s charter law passed despite resistance.
Why Proposal A’s funding shift was a game-changer for Michigan schools.
Jeb Bush and John Ellis reflect on Florida’s early law and its roots in accountability and family choice.
How different political contexts produced unique models—and enduring lessons.
Leadership takeaways: seize the moment, design for context, and act boldly when the system won’t change itself.
Show Notes & Resources
Michigan
Governor John Engler Special Address to the Michigan Legislature on Education (1993)
James N. Goenner, The Origination of Michigan’s Charter Schools Policy: A Historical Analysis (2011)
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