About Us
Who We Are
The Paterson Charter School Roundtable (PCSR) is a coalition of Paterson’s leading public charter schools working together to elevate student success, family engagement, and community voice. Rooted in equity, collaboration, and civic leadership, we unify charter educators, families, and advocates to ensure that every child in Paterson has access to a high-quality public education regardless of their ZIP code, background, or circumstance.
What We Do
We serve as a hub for strategy, policy advocacy, and resource-sharing across seven distinct charter school organizations, supporting over 7,500 students citywide. From influencing statewide education policy to celebrating student achievements in classrooms, PCSR is building a future where all Paterson scholars thrive.
Uniting Schools, Empowering Families, Educating Scholars
Our Mission
To unite Paterson’s charter schools in advancing excellence, equity, and opportunity for all students by supporting school growth, empowering family voices, and advocating for public policy that expands access to high-quality public education.
Our Vision
We envision a vibrant, student-centered Paterson where every child regardless of neighborhood, income, or identity is equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and support to pursue their greatest potential in college, career, and life. By aligning schools, families, and civic partners, we aim to transform educational access and outcomes across the city.
Guided by Experience. United by Purpose.
The Paterson Charter School Roundtable is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees committed to advancing high-quality public education in Paterson. Our board members bring a diverse range of expertise in education, nonprofit leadership, public policy, and community engagement.
Together, they provide strategic oversight, ensure organizational accountability, and help drive the vision of equitable access to charter school opportunities for all students in Paterson.
OUR EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMEBERS
ROBERT GUARASCI
CEO
NJCDC
Dr. Nihat Guvercin
VICE PRESIDENT
ILEARN SCHOOLS
RIZA GURCANLI
TREASURER/SECRETARY
PATERSON CHARTER SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
TJ Best
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PCSR
PATERSON CHARTER SCHOOL ROUNDTABLE
dr. Dowayne Davis
PHILIP'S ACADEMY
Ira Griffith
COMMUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL OF PATERSON
dr. Gemar Mills
College Achieve public Schools
Gabriella Difilipo
KIPP NEW JERSEY
