Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel discusses at a Phalanx Family Services press conference the challenges both public schools and charter schools face in Chicago. (Posted on Aug. 6, 2013)
Chicago Public Schools on Friday released details of proposals from nine charter school operators seeking approval for 21 new campuses over the next two years.
After closing 47 elementary schools for under-utilization this summer, the district announced in October that it would address overcrowding on the Northwest and Southwest sides by adding privately run charter schools in those communities.
CPS is encouraging parents and community to review the proposals and offer feedback. The proposals can be found at http://cps.edu/2013RFP.
CPS is holding a meeting Monday on the proposal at its headquarters, 125 S. Clark St. The Board of Education is expected to vote on CPS’ recommendations for new charter schools at its January monthly Board meeting.
CPS launched three Neighborhood Advisory Councils, made up of community residents, to work with the district, the neighborhood and charter operators on the proposals.
Critics of charter school growth, which include the Chicago Teachers Union, argue the privately run schools take district funding away from neighborhood schools.
A member of one Northwest Side Neighborhood Advisory said that the process has been less