Success Academy CEO Urges Staff to Support Charter School Political Campaigns

Days before a planned pro-charter rally, Eva Moskowitz, CEO of Success Academy—the largest charter school network in New York City—held an unannounced training session for staff. Instead of discussing teaching strategies, she emphasized the importance of political activism supporting charter schools. She informed employees that they must participate in upcoming protests, including a march across the Brooklyn Bridge and a rally in Cadman Plaza, stressing the urgency by comparing it to a prior 2014 Albany rally organized on short notice.

In a recording obtained by Mother Jones, Moskowitz criticized perceived democratic tendencies among staff, asserting, “When your boss asks you to do something, assuming it’s not unethical, you do the task.” She also expressed frustration over low participation in a campaign requiring staff to contact officials supporting charter schools, urging employees to confirm their efforts publicly and privately.

Many staff members expressed unease, with some feeling pressured to advocate politically and participate in protests. Teachers reported being asked to call parents or distribute flyers to rally support, with ongoing check-ins and surveillance via Slack and after-hours calls. Critics argue this constitutes coercive political activity under employment law, especially given charter schools’ unique legal status.

Several employees candidly voiced their discomfort, describing it as a workplace culture centered more on political loyalty than education. Some reported sudden firings with little explanation, fueling fears of retaliation. Staff also noted the organization’s ongoing political activities, including donations to political candidates and messaging framing opponents as threats to charter school missions.

While Success Academy states its efforts are purely advocacy, external observers and legal experts warn that such political coercion within a nonprofit entity receiving public funds blurs legal boundaries and threatens democratic principles. The ongoing pressure reflects broader tensions around charter school politics, especially with upcoming New York City mayoral elections and debates over school expansion policies.

As the school year continues, staff remain conflicted, with some feeling increasingly anxious about their ability to navigate workplace expectations without compromising their personal beliefs or job security.