From Frustrated Teacher to Hall of Fame: Chris Barbic on Building Yes Prep, Leading Tennessee's Turnaround District, and Why Charter Schools Are Getting Their Swagger Back

Charter School Hall of Fame inductee Chris Barbic joins host Jed for a candid conversation about his journey from a frustrated Teach for America teacher to one of the most influential leaders in charter education.

Chris opens up about the magical early days of founding YES Prep in Houston, where the team worked grueling hours but formed unbreakable bonds while serving kids. He shares honest reflections on his time leading Tennessee's Achievement School District, including the political challenges and the health wake-up call that changed his approach to leadership.

Now at City Fund, Chris is focused on supporting the next generation of education leaders. He explains why he believes the charter school movement is emerging from the "dark fog" of recent years and regaining its confidence—what he calls getting its "swagger" back.

In This Episode:

• The origin story behind Yes Prep and those intense founding years

• Why Chris had a heart attack at 44 and what it taught him about sustainable leadership

• The difference between being a "director" versus an "executive producer" in education

• How the charter sector is bouncing back stronger post-COVID

• The importance of maintaining humor and perspective in high-pressure work

• Chris's advice for emerging leaders in education

About Chris Barbic:

Chris Barbic is a Charter School Hall of Fame inductee and Partner at City Fund. He previously founded and led Yes Prep Public Schools in Houston and served as Superintendent of Tennessee's Achievement School District. He currently serves on multiple boards including Yes Prep and the Charter School Founders Library.

About CharterFolk Chat:

Authentic conversations with the leaders shaping public education. Jed explores the stories, strategies, and insights of charter school innovators working to expand educational opportunities for all students.

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