Ashara Baker is the National Parents Union New York State Director and the Co-Founder of the New York State Charter Parent Council. Her core mission is to achieve social, economic, and educational equity. She has spent over a decade in education and family development and is well-versed in the disconnect within the state’s education systems.
Today, she works as an advocate to help children and families across New York State perfect the present and create a better future—uplifting the priorities of New York State’s families while raising awareness about the science of teaching and learning, including reading, mathematics, and AI technology. She convenes families to navigate and advocate for these advancements while ensuring that all children have access to high-quality, well-funded programs.
Previously, Ashara served as the Director of Literacy at the Boys and Girls Club of Rochester for six years before becoming the Development Director. She also served as the Community Engagement Manager with the New York Charter Schools Association. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University at Albany and an M.S. in Strategic Leadership. Additionally, she has earned certificates from Georgetown University in Education Finance and from the Harvard Kennedy School of Public Policy in Leadership in Organizing and Advocacy. She is currently a fellow in the Murmuration Legislative Advocacy Fellowship.
Above all else, Ashara is a proud mother to her eight-year-old daughter, who inspires her to go the extra mile. Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to bridging gaps in the education system and empowering families to harness their strengths to create meaningful change.
