Michael Chartier is a Legislative Director for ExcelinEd in Action. In this role, he works with leaders and policymakers in the Midwest region to promote student-centered solutions focused on educational quality, innovation and opportunity. Michael is the former Policy Director for Education Choice at ExcelinEd. Previously, he spent nearly eight years at EdChoice, formerly the Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice, leading the national nonprofit’s state-based coalition and policy work to advance school choice legislation in more than 18 states. He began his career more than a decade ago working for former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels as Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Policy Director for the state’s professional licensing agency. He also served as the Indiana State Director for Americans for Prosperity. Michael has a bachelor’s degree in political science from The George Washington University. He lives in downtown Indianapolis and enjoys spending time with his family and exploring new grilling techniques.