Here’s one way to hail the chief.
Schools named in honor of President Obama are popping up with increasing frequency these days — with two city and two New Jersey charter schools leading the way.
Among the more than 20 charter school applications received by the city this year, two were inspired by the nation’s headmaster: the Barack Obama Community Charter School in Staten Island and the Yes We Can Academy in The Bronx.
Both elementary schools are hoping to open in September 2010.
“It seems entirely appropriate that a president who’s taking the concept of charter schools to the next level should have his name appear on some of these schools,” said Joe Williams, director of Democrats for Education Reform.
Obama and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan have backed innovations such as charter schools.
In New Jersey, meanwhile, officials are reviewing applications for two commander-in-chief-inspired charters.
Nicholle Anatol, founder of the Yes We Can Academy Charter School in Willingboro, said: “I know that’s a name people in the community won’t forget.”