Achievement First Company Profile

Background

Achievement First is a non-profit network of high-performing, college-preparatory K-12 public charter schools operating across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. Founded in 1999 with the opening of Amistad Academy in New Haven, Connecticut, the organization has expanded to 41 schools serving over 15,000 students. The mission of Achievement First is to deliver on the promise of equal educational opportunity for all of America's children, ensuring that every child—regardless of race, zip code, or economic status—has access to a quality education. The organization emphasizes rigorous academic instruction, character development, and a commitment to preparing students for college, career, and life.

Key Strategic Focus

Achievement First's strategic focus centers on providing an excellent, gap-closing K-12 education. The organization aims to prepare students to graduate from top colleges, succeed in a competitive world, and serve as the next generation of leaders in their communities. Key strategies include:

• Talent Development: Investing heavily in the recruitment, development, recognition, and retention of talented teachers. New teachers participate in nearly three weeks of professional development before the school year, with ongoing coaching and support.

• Extended Learning Time: Implementing a school day that is at least 1.5 hours longer and a school year two weeks longer than traditional public schools, with additional tutoring available during and after school.

• Rigorous Curriculum: Establishing ambitious academic standards for each grade level to ensure student mastery of essential knowledge and skills.

• Data-Driven Instruction: Conducting interim assessments every six weeks to measure student mastery, followed by dedicated "Data Days" to review results and create targeted instructional plans.

• Strong School Culture: Fostering a sense of urgency, order, focus, and joy, with a commitment to character education and high expectations.

Financials and Funding

As of the fiscal year ending June 2023, Achievement First reported:

• Revenue: $41,941,956

• Expenses: $52,573,871

• Net Assets: $27,986,996

The organization's revenue sources include contributions, program services, and rental property income. Notably, 77.5% of the revenue comes from program services, while 13.2% is from contributions.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Achievement First integrates various technological tools to enhance educational delivery and operational efficiency. The organization's tech stack includes:

• Docker: For containerization and application deployment.

• Google Workspace: For email and collaboration.

• Fundraise Up: For fundraising and donation management.

• Amazon ALB: For load balancing.

• Greenhouse: For recruitment marketing.

• Cloudflare Bot Management: For security.

• Adobe Creative Suite: For visualization and design.

• Facebook Widgets: For social media integration.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at Achievement First includes:

• Lisa Margosian: Chief Executive Officer.

• Fatimah Barker: Outgoing CEO.

• De-Lea Deane-Allen: Chief Equity Officer.

• Xanthe Jory: Chief Operating Officer.

• Christina Braganza: Chief Program Officer.

Leadership Changes

In 2024, Lisa Margosian assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Fatimah Barker. This transition marks a new chapter in Achievement First's leadership as the organization continues to pursue its mission of educational excellence.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The charter school sector has experienced significant growth, with increasing demand for high-quality educational alternatives. Achievement First operates in a competitive landscape alongside other prominent charter networks.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

• KIPP Foundation: Operating nationwide with a focus on college-preparatory education.

• YES Prep Public Schools: Serving students in Texas with a commitment to closing the achievement gap.

• IDEA Public Schools: A rapidly growing network emphasizing college readiness.

• Success Academy Charter Schools: Known for high academic performance in New York City.

• Uncommon Schools: Operating schools across multiple states with a focus on low-income communities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Achievement First has engaged in several strategic partnerships to enhance its educational offerings:

• Cartwheel: Partnered to provide students and families with rapid access to mental health care via telehealth.

• Revolution Foods: Collaborated to support equity and food access in schools and communities.

Operational Insights

Achievement First's strategic considerations include:

• Geographic Concentration: Focusing growth in specific communities to transform district practices and community-wide results.