CPS Votes to Spare 7 Acero Charter Schools from Closure, Plans to Absorb 5 in 2026
Acero Parents and Educators Celebrate Unanimous Board Decision
Chicago’s Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution Friday that aimed to save seven Acero charter schools slated for closure for one more year then take over five of them in 2026.
A Massive Win for Acero Community
Acero parents and educators saw the vote as a massive win after weeks of protests against the planned school closings. Dozens broke into huge cheers and applause at a special board meeting Friday night that was dominated by Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez’s future.
Unclear Cooperation from Acero Charter Officials
It remained unclear whether Acero charter officials would cooperate with the board’s wishes. The board and CPS don’t have the authority to force Acero to keep its schools open.
Plan to Absorb Five Schools in 2026
But the resolution called on the school district to make a plan with Acero officials that would help the publicly funded, privately managed charter network maintain the seven campuses next school year. Officially bringing five of the schools under district control in the 2026-27 year would require a separate action next year.
CPS Letter to Acero Families
In a letter to Acero families Friday night, CPS officials said they intend to follow the board’s direction but reiterated that Acero and the school board would still need to reach a memorandum of agreement.
“Families, I know the past few months have left your school communities anxious and uncertain,” the letter read. “We want to thank you for making your voices heard in this process. As we work through the logistics of this path forward, we will continue to keep you informed.”
Two Schools to Close
The plan would still see two schools close: Acero’s Paz and Cruz campuses. CPS officials have said those two schools are chief contributors to Acero’s projected deficit that has been cited as the chief reason for closure.
Conclusion
The unanimous decision by the CPS Board of Education to spare seven Acero charter schools from closure brings relief to the Acero community. While the plan is not without its uncertainties, it provides a sense of stability for the schools and their students. The path forward will require cooperation from Acero charter officials, but the potential benefits for the schools and the students are significant.
FAQs
Q: What did the CPS Board of Education vote on?
A: The board voted to spare seven Acero charter schools from closure for one more year and to take over five of them in 2026.
Q: Will Acero charter officials cooperate with the board’s wishes?
A: It is unclear whether Acero charter officials will cooperate with the board’s wishes. The board and CPS do not have the authority to force Acero to keep its schools open.
Q: How many schools will close?
A: Two schools, Acero’s Paz and Cruz campuses, will close as part of the plan.
Q: What is the projected deficit that led to the planned closures?
A: The projected deficit is attributed to Acero’s Paz and Cruz campuses, which are chief contributors to the deficit.
