Sacramento, CA – The California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) today honored outstanding charter public schools, education leaders, and advocates at the 2025 California Charter Schools Conference, presenting them with the prestigious Hart Vision Equity and Innovation Awards.
First awarded in 2023 and named after the late Sen. Gary K. Hart, these awards recognize schools and individuals who have demonstrated excellence in serving all students and advancing the charter public school movement in California.
This year, two charter public schools were recognized for their commitment to equity and student success. Honorees have implemented innovative programs and best practices that foster inclusion, close opportunity gaps, and serve as models for the broader education community.
"It is an honor to present the Hart Vision Equity and Innovation Awards to this year’s remarkable winners. These schools and education leaders are not just fulfilling the promise of charter public schools—they are transforming lives and communities," said Myrna Castrejón, President and CEO of CCSA. "Their dedication to equity and innovation is reshaping public education, ensuring that all students—regardless of background—have access to high-quality learning opportunities."
In addition to recognizing schools, CCSA announced its 2025 Hart Vision Award for Authorizer of the Year and 2025 Hart Vision Awards for Elected Officials of the Year. These awards celebrate exceptional leadership, policy innovation, and best practices that ensure charter schools receive the oversight, support, and resources needed to thrive.
CCSA has produced a special video series showcasing the 2025 award recipients and their contributions to public education. Click the links below to learn more about this year’s honorees.
2025 Hart Vision Equity and Innovation Award Recipients
Schools of the Year
Navigator Schools
Partnerships to Uplift Communities (PUC) Schools
Authorizer of the Year
Barbara Nemko, Napa County Superintendent of Schools
Elected Officials of the Year
Grace Mah, Santa Clara County Office of Education
Joseph DiSalvo, Santa Clara County Office of Education
For more information on the Hart Vision Awards, visit https://info.ccsa.org/awards.
For media interviews, please contact: Ana Tintocalis, CCSA Managing Director of Public Relations & Creative Services, [email protected] 916.666.2284
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