Blueprints for Change
Facilities
Stories
An inside look at the people and ideas redefining what’s possible for charter schools nationwide.
Together, we’re reimagining what’s possible for public charter school facilities — and the communities they serve.
Across the country, charter school leaders face complex, often invisible barriers to securing equitable, affordable, and high-quality facilities. At 22Beacon, we work to change that.
This video series brings together voices from across the sector — policymakers, developers, and school leaders — to unpack the biggest challenges in charter school facility access and the innovative solutions that are driving change.
Each short video explores one core problem and the creative paths forward — from unlocking low-cost capital to building stronger partnerships and policies that make real impact.
Barrier
Inequitable Policies
From outdated legislation to structural inequities, charter schools continue to receive fewer public resources for facilities than district schools.
Solutions
Real progress starts with fair funding. By expanding programs that help schools access better financing, states can ensure every public school student — including those in charter schools — has equal access to quality facilities and resources.
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Barrier
Access to Low-Cost Capital
High interest rates. Limited credit access. Restrictive financing options. For many charter schools, the first and biggest obstacle is simply finding affordable capital.
Solutions
States and mission-aligned partners are rewriting the playbook on school financing.
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"Public charter schools should have access to all of the public facility financing opportunities in the same way that a traditional system does."
– Darryl Cobb,
President at Charter School Growth Fund
Barrier
Rising Costs
Across the U.S., building costs continue to rise faster than per-pupil funding. Schools are struggling to build — or even lease — spaces that meet their needs.
Solution
The answer may already exist in our neighborhoods. By repurposing underutilized or abandoned buildings, states and school leaders are creating cost-effective, sustainable facilities that revitalize communities.
Barrier
Lack of Expertise and Guidance
School leaders are educators first — yet they’re often tasked with navigating complex real estate and financing processes without the resources or expertise to do so.
Solutions
Partnering with trusted, mission-aligned organizations like 22Beacon gives schools access to the expertise, capital, and support they need to stay focused on students. By also providing flexible, affordable incubation spaces, states can help new schools grow responsibly and sustainably — building strong foundations for long-term success.
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Solutions Exist
Leading Together
Every problem in this series points to the same truth: solutions exist — and they work when we lead with purpose, partnership, and policy.
At 22Beacon, we’re proud to work alongside schools, lenders, and advocates to close the facilities gap and build stronger, more equitable learning environments for every student.