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CCSA Awards

CCSA Conference Awardee

Celebrating Charter Excellence

The California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) presents the Hart Vision Awards and Don Shalvey Legacy Awards at the California Charter Schools Conference, honoring leaders shaping California’s charter public schools. The Hart Vision Awards celebrate the legacy of Senator Gary K. Hart, a founder of the state’s charter school movement. The Don Shalvey Legacy Awards honors the late Don Shalvey, a visionary leader whose work transformed students’ lives, inspired educators, and advanced innovation, equity, and excellence.

Explore the Award Categories

Don Shalvey Legacy Awards

Strong contributions to the charter school field over a period of many years. This is an opportunity to celebrate someone's leadership as they transition out of their charter work and into a different career or retire. Even if they’re not leaving the charter space entirely, this is about the heads of institutions leaving their founding roles.

Hart Vision Authorizer of the Year

Authorizers that have model practices and policies, and act fairly to their charters. 

Hart Vision Equity & Innovation Awards

Schools honored with the Hart Vision Equity and Innovation Award have programs or practices that ensure all kids are represented, supported, and included. They are closing opportunity gaps or supporting students in innovative ways that serve as a model for the larger education community.

Hart Vision Elected Official of the Year

Served as key backstop or charter champion from their post. 

Hart Vision Supporter of the Year

Served as a charter champion from their post.

Hart Vision Teacher of the Year

Individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence within their school community. Celebrates and elevates the transformative practices that lead to lasting positive impacts on students. 

Rachel Willis-Henry Volunteer of the Year

Individuals who have selflessly volunteered their time, expertise, and energy to support their charter schools. Celebrates and elevates the volunteer actions and contributions that strengthen and support the charter community.

Announcing 2026's Awardees

✨ RACHEL WILLIS-HENRY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR ✨

Juana Morales Aguilar, Making Waves Academy


✨HART VISION TEACHER OF THE YEAR✨

Guadalupe Covarrubias, Magnolia Science Academy 2


✨REGIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Bay Area✨

Maria Humildad, Latino College Preparatory Academy,
The Foundation for Hispanic Education


✨REGIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Los Angeles✨

Dayna Rosso, Stella Elementary Charter Academy,
Bright Star Schools


✨REGIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR: NorCal/Central Valley✨

Armando Murillo, University High School


✨REGIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Southern California✨

Nancy Alcalá, Orange County School of the Arts


✨HART VISION EQUITY & INNOVATION LEADERS OF THE YEAR✨

Mary Cox, CORE Butte Charter School

Jeffie Esparza Hickman, University High School

Dr. Derek King, Excelsior Charter Schools


✨HART VISION EQUITY & INNOVATION SCHOOL OF THE YEAR✨

Wonderful College Preparatory Academy

Awardees Through the Years

Discover the stories behind our awardees. From inspiring achievements to heartwarming moments, the videos and press releases below highlight the impact, dedication, and vision of leaders shaping California’s charter public schools.

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