CHICAGO — The landscape of education in Chicago is changing dramatically as Acero charter schools face impending closures, prompting urgent discussions about the future of these institutions.
Micha Thurston, a dedicated teacher at Octavio Paz Elementary School, recently discovered just how much uncertainty permeates her students’ lives. While collecting funds for field trips, a student inquired about the purpose of the money, only to gasp in surprise and ask, “So we can stay open?” This moment encapsulates the confusion and concern surrounding the closure of Paz, as well as the broader challenges affecting charter schools in the city.
Paz, along with ASPIRA-Haugan Middle School, is set to close by the end of this academic year. These closures are part of a worrying trend that has seen nearly a dozen charter campuses in Chicago cease operations over the past five years, many due to financial difficulties and declining enrollment. In a significant shift for the district, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) plans to convert five Acero campuses into district-run schools by the fall of 2026.
The situation at Acero schools reflects a changing approach to charter governance in Chicago, which has seen an influx of such schools since 1997. As charter enrollment declines and budgets tighten, the newly appointed school board is poised to implement stricter oversight measures. A resolution on their agenda proposes new requirements, sparking opposition from the Illinois Network of Charter Schools.
Among the proposed stipulations, charter operators would be required to provide 18 months’ notice before closing a school and assume financial responsibility for any related costs. Additionally, the resolution encourages the district to lobby for changes to state law that would prevent charter schools from closing during their renewal term.
This year, charter schools serving over 21,000 students are in limbo as the board delayed its renewal vote, traditionally held in January. The growing financial deficit within the district raises critical questions: Should the district absorb schools that charter networks decide to close, or allow them to phase out? How can the district attract students from closing charters into district-run schools, especially those struggling with enrollment?
Elizabeth Todd-Breland, formerly vice president of the Chicago Board of Education, highlights the profound implications of these decisions on students, families, and educators. The rapid growth of charters initiated under the Renaissance 2010 plan contributed to many of the operational challenges faced today, as CPS’s overall enrollment declined.
CPS spokesperson Quan Vu emphasized that the decision to absorb Acero campuses aims to reduce disruption for students and families, but cautioned that it should not set a precedent for future charter closures.
However, the evolving dynamics of the board raise concerns for other charter operators facing financial distress. Following the decision to convert Acero schools, questions loom about whether other troubled charters will seek support from the financially strained district.
Elected school board member Yesenia Lopez expressed her belief in the necessity for charter networks to notify families of potential closures well in advance, underscoring that families deserve transparency regarding their schools’ financial situations. Lopez’s stance reflects the growing desire for charters to engage meaningfully with their communities.
Conversely, board member Jennifer Custer expressed apprehension over committing to absorb the Acero elementary campuses post-closure. She argued that decisions should be financially responsible and not compromise the larger district’s operations.
CPS’s history illustrates past complications with charter operations, as revealed by the decision to revoke Urban Prep Charter Academy’s agreement due to financial mismanagement and failure to serve students adequately. The district’s prior ability to close such schools underscores the legal complexities and challenges it faces.
An increasing concern for the district is the alarming trend of declining enrollment in both charters and district-run schools—a reality that impacts funding considerably. ASPIRA-Haugan, once teeming with nearly 500 students, is now down to 80 due to a range of factors, including competition from nearby schools and shifting demographics.
The board’s considerations for charter renewals are also shifting. Traditionally handled in late fall, this year’s renewal schedule has been delayed, leaving many schools in uncertainty about their futures. The board has proposed a mixture of two- to four-year renewals, with several schools facing the potential of only a two-year extension.
Advocates voice strong opinions on the renewal process and its implications for charter accountability. Andrew Broy, president of the Illinois Network of Charter Schools, argues that charter schools face undue scrutiny compared to their district counterparts, asserting that stronger collaboration between charters and CPS could aid in overcoming financial challenges.
The future of charter schools in Chicago is uncertain. With enrollment numbers falling, funding sources dwindling, and community trust wavering, the fate of these educational institutions will undoubtedly hinge on the decisions of the new board and their commitment to navigating the challenges ahead.
Reema Amin, a reporter covering issues at Chicago Public Schools, highlights that the evolving narrative surrounding charter schools is not only about institutional survival but also about ensuring that students receive a quality education amidst uncertainty.
image source from：https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/04/24/chicagos-partially-elected-school-board-plans-changes-to-charter-school-oversight/
