Stars in support of charter schools
Oprah. Diddy. Ludacris.
That’s quite the collection of celebrities known by one name.
They’re also among the more prominent African-American personalities who have and continue to support charter schools.
In recent weeks, some African-American organizations have raised concerns about charter school funding, spending and performance.
Here’s a look at what some of these stars have done to help charter schools:
- Oprah Winfrey: The media mogul has donated millions of dollars to charter schools and charter school networks in her hometown of Chicago and several states nationwide, according to news accounts.
- Sean "Diddy" Combs: The rapper/actor/producer/clothing designer has co-founded a charter school that opened this week in Harlem.
- Ludacris: The Georgia-grown rap superstar has been vocal in his support of charter schools and has attended rallies at the state Capitol promoting school choice.
- Deion "Prime Time" Sanders: The pro football Hall of Famer and former Atlanta Falcons star opened a charter school in Texas that closed in 2015 due to financial trouble, according to news reports.
- Keshia Knight Pulliam Hartwell: The Atlanta-based actress earlier this year penned a column in support of school choice.
About the Author
Eric Stirgus joined The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2001. He currently writes about higher education and has assisted in the newsroom’s COVID-19 vaccine coverage. Born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., Eric is active in the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists and the Education Writers Association and enjoys mentoring aspiring journalists.
