Charter Schools CEO Named "Floridian of the Year"

Jonathan Hage

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida --  Jonathan Hage, president and CEO of Charter Schools USA (CSUSA), was named "Floridian of the Year" in Florida Trend magazine's January 2013 issue.  Hage, who started CSUSA in 1997 was recognized for his proactive role in education reform in the state of Florida and for running successful, high-performing charter schools.

"This is an unbelievable honor," said Hage. "I am very humbled and recognize that this is not about me, but about the students and the education reform movement catching fire throughout this country. It is a privilege to work with so many who work so hard to reinforce their belief that putting students first is tantamount to everything else.  This recognition reflects the overarching understanding that we, as a nation, have to change our educational model and standards in order to compete in the global market."

Hage leads CSUSA which currently runs 48 schools in five states serving nearly 40,000 students. His company employs more than 4,500 people and is growing.  Charter Schools USA says that the initial facility impact adds approximately $11.5 million to the community, adds approximately 75 high quality jobs and contributes nearly $7 million annually through sustained economic activity. CSUSA is the first management company in the nation to receive accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and AdvancEd. When combined as a district, CSUSA-managed schools average an "A" grade.