S4 E11 Stewards of Possibility

What does it mean to lead with both accountability and trust? In this episode of Bold by Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner sit down with Terry Croy Lewis, Executive Director of the Colorado Charter School Institute (CSI) and recipient of the 2026 Stewards of Possibility Award. Terry’s journey began as a charter school mom in the 1990s — a parent searching for a school where her child could truly thrive. What followed became a decades-long commitment to creating opportunities for students, families, and communities through courageous leadership, innovative school design, and deep relationships. Together, the conversation explores how CSI has redefined authorizing — not as compliance alone, but as a balance of accountability, support, trust, and possibility. Terry shares stories about launching schools that challenged assumptions, including schools serving students on the autism spectrum, outdoor learning models in the Colorado mountains, and charter schools on tribal land. The episode also dives into leadership development, why listening matters more than ever, and how curiosity and humility help organizations continue evolving to meet the needs of students. Because stewardship isn’t about protecting systems. It’s about protecting possibility. Show Notes In This Episode: The origins of CSI and Terry’s charter school journey Why parental voice matters in public education Accountability and support in authorizing Building trust with school leaders and communities Innovation in charter school models Outdoor schools, tribal schools, and neurodiverse learning communities Leadership development and organizational culture Why curiosity is essential for the future of education The meaning behind the Stewards of Possibility Award Key Takeaway: Fear may produce compliance — but trust produces improvement. Great leadership creates the conditions where innovation, relationships, and student success can thrive together.