New chapter on legacy to strengthen a national pipeline of education innovators, founders, and advocates.
Freedom to Choose Schools today announced that it has assumed leadership of the McLeod Society Fellowship, a nationally recognized leadership development program, originally launched by Black Minds Matter to elevate Black school founders nationwide.
The transition marks a significant next step for Freedom to Choose Schools – one that builds on Black Minds Matter’s foundational vision while expanding the program’s reach, infrastructure, and long-term sustainability under Freedom to Choose Schools’ stewardship. Together, the organizations are reinforcing a shared commitment to Black leadership, educational freedom, and community-driven solutions.
“The McLeod Society Fellowship has always been about cultivating courageous leadership rooted in community,” said Jay Artis-Wright, Executive Director of Freedom to Choose Schools. “Bringing the Fellowship under the Freedom to Choose Schools umbrella allows us to expand that vision—supporting more leaders, strengthening their networks, and ensuring parents and communities remain at the center of education policy and practice.”
Founded to support Black leaders shaping the future of education, the McLeod Society Fellowship has helped develop a growing national network of fellows working across schools, advocacy organizations, and policy spaces.
“This next chapter honors the work we began while recognizing that sustainable impact requires trusted partners who can grow and protect that vision. Freedom to Choose Schools is well positioned to carry this work forward while continuing to uplift Black leaders and the communities they serve. Denisha Allen, Founder of Black Minds Matter.
This transition comes at a pivotal moment in American education. As families increasingly seek alternatives to traditional systems and education choice expands across multiple states, Black educators are leading the way with innovative, responsive models that better reflect the needs and aspirations of their communities.
Additional details about future McLeod Society Fellowship cohorts and programming will be announced in the coming weeks.
About Freedom to Choose Schools
Freedom to Choose Schools is a national advocacy organization dedicated to elevating family voice, expanding educational opportunity, and supporting parent- and community-driven leadership in education policy.
About Black Minds Matter
Black Minds Matter is a leading advocate for K–12 educational reform and empowerment within the Black community, committed to advancing educational freedom and excellence for Black students nationwide.
For more information about the McLeod Society Fellowship, visit https://chooseschools.org/MSF/