INCS Applauds Charter School Approval

CHICAGO, Feb. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS) applauds the Chicago Public Schools board for approving two new charter schools in their January meeting.  Congratulations to the founding teams at Foundations College Prep and The Orange School, which now have approval to move forward with their new school plans in 2014.  

Like the two charter schools approved in December to open in 2013, these new schools represent home-grown innovation in Chicago.  Foundations College Prep redefines teaching roles and schedules in order to extend the reach of the best, most experienced teachers to all students.  Their innovative model was recognized this fall with an award of $150,000 from the national Next Generation Learning Challenge, for "Breakthrough Models" in education.   The Orange School, an arts-based elementary school, offers families a new option in line with the district's focus on elevating the arts in our schools

We commend CPS and other districts that make the visions of educators, civic leaders, parents, and others into reality by authorizing strong charter applications.  "In an environment where there are not enough high-quality options for Chicago's parents," said INCS President Andrew Broy, "we must act now to open additional high-performing schools and add capacity where it is needed most."

Foundations and Orange worked with the INCS Charter Starter Consulting program to create solid plans to serve students, families, and communities.  While others are focused on the difficult question of school actions, we continue the critical work of helping to meet the demand for great new schools and supporting existing schools.

The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS) is dedicated to the improvement of education by establishing high-quality charter public schools that transform lives and communities.  As the voice of the Illinois charter schools, INCS advocates for legislation on behalf of the charter sector, provides support to strengthen charter schools, and influences education policy for the benefit of all public school students.

Contacts: Sylvia Ewing
(312) 629-2063 x 33
(773) 575-0073 (mobile)
[email protected]

SOURCE Illinois Network of Charter Schools