Date
12-2025
ESRP 9000 Professor
Sandy Underhill, Ed.D.
ESRP 9001 Professor
Sandy Underhill, Ed.D.
Executive Summary
This Strategic Research Project examines political opposition to the charter school movement and proposes a strategic, partnership-driven approach for GEO Academies to strengthen its long-term sustainability. Using a mixed-methods design, the study combines qualitative literature analysis with quantitative strategic tools—including the SWOT Analysis, Internal and External Factor Evaluations (IFE/EFE), and the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM)—to identify the most effective response to the growing resistance faced by charter organizations.
Political opposition emerged as the most critical threat to GEO Academies. Rooted in concerns about racial segregation, public fund diversion, insufficient accountability structures, and increased taxpayer burden, resistance from policymakers, community leaders, and traditional public school advocates poses a significant risk to charter expansion and operational stability. These negative externalities highlighted an urgent need for GEO Academies to adopt a comprehensive strategy to mitigate political and social pushback.
The most attractive strategy for implementing this solution—yielding a Total Attractiveness Score (TAS) of 5.82—was targeted stakeholder mapping. This strategy focuses on identifying key allies and opponents, building trusted relationships with community stakeholders, aligning organizational objectives with local policy priorities, and tailoring communication to address misconceptions about charter schools.
The recommended action plan spans August 15, 2026–August 10, 2027, outlining structured steps for stakeholder engagement, partnership building, communication development, and progress monitoring. During this period, GEO Academies will intentionally align resources and leadership to advance collaboration and advocacy across its three operating states.
This research concludes that sustained success in the charter sector requires strategic relationship development, transparent communication, and continuous community engagement. By prioritizing targeted stakeholder partnerships, GEO Academies can enhance its political positioning, expand community support, and secure long-term organizational stability amidst ongoing opposition to the charter movement.
Document Type
Strategic Research Project-NSU Access Only
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
College
Abraham S. Fischler College of Education
Concentration
Curriculum and Teaching
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Shirlon Clay. 2025. Developing Partnership for Stakeholding Mapping: A Strategic Approach to Political Opposition to the Charter Movement. Capstone. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education. (478)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_srp/478.