Sacramento, CA – The California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) announced today, Monday, November 10, that it is honoring three charter public school leaders and one charter public school network with the prestigious Hart Vision Equity and Innovation Awards.
“It is a privilege to recognize this year’s Hart Vision Award honorees, whose leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to equity are driving lasting change in their schools and communities,” said Myrna Castrejón, President and CEO of CCSA. “These educators and school leaders are expanding opportunity, uplifting student voices, and modeling what’s possible when we work together to ensure every student is seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.”
This year’s honorees are unifiers, ensuring charters are represented and included in local and state opportunities, advocating for equity at systemic levels. They also implement innovative programs and best practices that foster inclusion, close opportunity gaps, and serve as models for the broader education community.
First awarded in 2023 and named after the late Sen. Gary K. Hart, the Hart Vision Equity & Innovation Awards recognize leaders and schools demonstrating a commitment to equity, inclusion, and excellence by advocating for all students, sharing best practices, and mentoring others to strengthen the public charter school community. Awardees exemplify measurable impact through innovative programs, schoolwide practices, and systemic leadership that ensure all students—especially those historically underserved—are supported, represented, and positioned to succeed academically and socially.
CCSA will recognize and celebrate the contributions of these extraordinary leaders and charter public schools at the Long Beach Convention Center on Thursday February 26, 2026, during the closing general session of the 2026 California Charter Schools Conference. Learn more about the conference and register here.
2026 Hart Vision Equity and Innovation Award Recipients
Leaders of the Year
Mary Cox
CORE Butte Charter School – Chico
Mary Cox exemplifies innovative leadership within California’s charter movement, centering students and communities in everything she does. A trailblazer in flex-based education, she bridges divides between instructional models, districts, and communities to create coalitions focused on what’s best for kids. Her school has become a hub for showcasing effective flex-based TK–12 practices, inspiring others to adopt new approaches. Through her advocacy, mentorship, and compassionate leadership in times of crisis, Mary unites and uplifts the broader charter community.
Jeffie Esparza Hickman
University High School – Fresno
Jeffie Esparza Hickman is a trusted and influential voice in the Fresno charter community, admired for her expertise and integrity. Leveraging her strong educational background, she champions fair treatment and opportunity for all schools, often serving as the first call when challenges arise. Her courage to take risks and advocate for others has earned her a reputation as both a protector and a trailblazer. Through her innovative leadership, Jeffie uplifts students, colleagues, and charter schools across California.
Dr. Derek King
Excelsior Charter Schools – Riverside & San Bernardino
Dr. Derek King knows firsthand that access to education doesn’t just transform individual lives, it shapes entire generations. As Superintendent of Excelsior Charter Schools, he leads a team that has created dynamic pathways—from dual enrollment to CTE and STEM programs—that open doors for students who might not see traditional routes as attainable. Beyond his schools, Dr. King serves on the state’s Advisory Commission on Charter Schools, ensuring charter perspectives are heard. His vision, mentorship, and commitment to community have strengthened and elevated California’s charter sector.
School of the Year
Wonderful College Prep Academy
Delano & Lost Hills – Kern County
With a vision to bring world-class educational opportunities to California’s Central Valley, Wonderful College Prep Academy (WCPA) offers a nurturing, engaging, and community-
centered TK–12 environment built on a strong academic foundation. With passionate educators, a focus on health and wellness, and state-of-the-art facilities, students achieve remarkable outcomes. In 2025, 50% graduated with an associate degree, while each year over 90% complete A–G requirements and 70% enroll in four-year universities—setting students on a lifelong path to success.
Register Now for the 2026 California Charter Schools Conference (February 23-26, Long Beach) to celebrate these incredible schools and leaders and join the largest statewide charter conference in the nation.
For media interviews, please contact: Ana Tintocalis, CCSA Vice President of Public Relations & Creative Services, [email protected], 916.666.2274
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About the California Charter Schools Association
The vision of the California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) is to build great public schools of joy and rigor that prepare all California students for success in college, career, community, and life. The mission of CCSA is to meet parent, educator, and community need for great public school options by supporting and advocating for high quality non-profit charter schools and sharing their success throughout California’s public schools. Learn more.