Building New Charter Schools and Programs with Purpose

At Method Schools, our growth has never been about expansion for its own sake—it’s about meeting authentic needs. When we consider developing a new charter or program, we begin with a simple, but essential question: Does this community have a student need that our programs can meaningfully address?

Too often, educational opportunities fall short because of gaps—whether that’s access to specialized programs, pathways that prepare students for college or careers, or athletic and arts-focused options that don’t currently exist in an area or district. Our approach is to carefully study these gaps and ask whether Method Schools has the expertise, resources, and vision to address them in a meaningful way.

Collaboration Comes First

No program can thrive in isolation.

For us, collaboration with local communities, families, and school districts is not just important—it’s the foundation of success. We listen first, seeking to understand what a community values, what opportunities already exist, and where our programs can truly complement and enhance the local landscape. Strong partnerships are the only way our work makes a lasting impact.

As I often say, “The real work begins long before the doors open. We build trust and partnerships with the community first, so that when a program launches, it’s already rooted in shared vision and support.”

Respecting Autonomy and Identity

A critical part of this process is honoring the autonomy and individuality of the schools and districts we work alongside. Every district has its history, culture, and values that are deeply important to its students, families, and educators. Our role is not to come in and make sweeping changes to climate or culture, but instead to recognize and support those identities while offering programs that strengthen what already exists.

For example, when partnering with a district on an academy program, we don’t attempt to reshape the school’s culture. Instead, we work to complement the existing identity by adding opportunities that align with community priorities while maintaining the traditions and values that made the district unique. This approach builds trust, shows respect, and ensures that the program feels like a natural extension of the district. Not an outside replacement.

Grounded in Results, Built from the Ground Up

We’re confident in our current programs because of the evidence: our school accountability data and performance metrics consistently show that our students are thriving. But we don’t assume that what works in one community will automatically work in another. Every successful program starts from the ground up—by aligning to the unique needs of the students and families we serve, building trust, and ensuring the design reflects both local priorities and proven practices.

A Mission of Meeting Needs

Ultimately, Method’s mission is about more than offering another school option—it’s about providing the right option, at the right time, for the right community. When an educational gap exists and we have a specialization that can meet it, we see an opportunity to make a difference. That’s how Method Schools chooses to grow: thoughtfully, intentionally, and continually in partnership with those we serve.