We’ve lost a great one. Don Shalvey did so much for so many, and for so long. Whether many people know it or not, they are standing on his shoulders and benefitting from his magical combination of fearlessness, kindness and tenacity. Don was able to see things that others could not, and his vision created a path for unprecedented educational opportunity for the kids who needed it most.
He was a leading figure from the earliest days of the charter school movement. Don was at the forefront in advocating for a charter school law in California, holds the distinction of having founded the first charter school in California, and later having created the first Charter Management Organization in the nation. And, as a leader at the Gates Foundation, he was critical in helping quality charter schools grow around the country. He earned his place in the Charter Schools Hall of Fame in 2009, and then worked tirelessly for 15 years beyond on behalf of students, most recently leading San Joaquin A+ in California.
There are literally tens of thousands of people whose lives are better because of him. I am proud to say that I am one of them. And even with all his impact, he always had such humility.
His brilliant mind guided so many of us to work harder and push for more. He served as a mentor to countless people in the sector who went on to lead schools of their own, or take leadership roles in philanthropy, policy and government. But more than a mentor, he was a friend. Don always took your phone call, and he always knew just the right thing to say. He also knew just the right song for any occasion. A DJ in his earlier life, he never lost his ability to get the crowd going.
Don’s joy was infectious and his energy boundless. It’s hard to imagine anyone who knew him and can’t point to at least one caper he pulled you into. Or at least one time he made you laugh until your belly ached. Or the many, many times he was the life of the party…slowly outlasting all the kids who could never outdrink him. And he was always bright-eyed, fresh and ready to get back to the fight first thing in the morning.
With a twinkle in his eye and his unforgettable laugh, Don was bigger than life while also being so very accessible. There will never be another. We love you, Don Shalvey.
Debbie Veney is the senior vice president of communications and marketing at the National Alliance.
