Washington State Charter Schools Association appoints Chris Korsmo as Executive Director

The Washington State Charter Schools Association (WA Charters) has appointed Chris Korsmo as its new executive director, effective 1. December.  

Korsmo has been serving in this role on an interim basis since July 2024, while the Board of Directors conducted a national search for a permanent leader.

Korsmo brings over 30 years of experience in government relations and advocacy, particularly focused on children and families. Dr. Joel Domingo, chair of the board of directors at WA Charters, noted the selection process, stating:

"After months of looking, the search committee realized that what we were looking for was already right here. Chris brings a bold vision, undeniable passion and commitment, strategic leadership and an impressive track record of getting results that translate to wins for students. She has dedicated her life to advancing social change through equity-focused advocacy.

“Chris was instrumental in the campaign to pass our state's charter law. She also helped incubate WA Charters as a statewide nonprofit dedicated to advocating for and supporting high-quality charter public schools.”

Korsmo has a longstanding connection to Washington’s charter school sector. She played a key role in the campaign to pass the state’s charter law and has been involved in developing WA Charters as a statewide nonprofit focused on supporting and advocating for charter public schools. 

Her previous experience includes founding Copper Strategic, a social impact consulting firm, and serving as Senior Vice President of Education at Strategies 360. Additionally, she led the League of Education Voters, an education advocacy organization, and held government relations roles at Planned Parenthood.

In her role as executive director, Korsmo will work to support charter schools across Washington, addressing challenges and building coalitions to advance the organization’s mission.

"I am honored to lead the Washington State Charter Schools Association and to work alongside our dedicated team and partners to ensure every child in Washington has access to an excellent public education.

"I am not just a charter school advocate, I'm a charter school parent. Educational equity is very important to me. I have seen first-hand how charter public schools can create an exceptional education opportunity, and I want every family in the state who wants to try a different type of public school to have that option."