CPS Votes to Leave 7 Acero Charter Schools Open for Another Year, Then Take Over 5
Acero Parents and Educators Celebrate Victory After Weeks of Protests
The Chicago Board of Education on Friday unanimously approved a resolution that would save seven Acero charter schools scheduled to close for one more year and then take over five of them in 2026.
BREAKDOWN OF THE RESOLUTION
* Save seven Acero charter schools scheduled to close for one more year
* Officially put five of the schools under CPS control in the 2026-27 year
RATIONALE BEHIND THE DECISION
The resolution aimed to address concerns raised by parents and educators against the planned school closures. It was unclear whether Acero charter school officials would cooperate with the board’s wishes, as they do not have the authority to force Acero to keep its schools open. However, the board urged CPS to make a plan with Acero officials that would help maintain all seven campuses next school year.
IMPLICATIONS FOR ACREO STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
The plan still involves the closure of two schools: the Paz and Cruz de Acero campuses. CPS officials have stated that these two schools are the main contributors to Acero’s projected deficit, which has been cited as the main reason for the closure.
Next Steps for CPS and Acero
CPS officials have promised to work through the logistics of the plan forward and keep parents informed. It remains to be seen whether Acero will cooperate with the board’s wishes or push back against the proposed takeover.
Statement from CPS
In a letter to Acero families, CPS officials said, “Families, I know that the past few months have left your school communities anxious and uncertain. We want to thank you for making your voice heard in this process. As we work through the logistics of this path forward, we will continue to keep you informed.”
Translation by Jackie Serrato, The Voice Chicago
Conclusion
The Chicago Board of Education’s decision to leave 7 Acero charter schools open for another year and take over 5 in 2026 marks a significant victory for parents and educators who have fought against school closures. While the plan still involves the closure of two schools, it offers hope for a new beginning for hundreds of students and families affected by the closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
* Will Acero cooperate with the board’s wishes to keep the seven schools open?
+ The board and CPS do not have the authority to force Acero to keep its schools open. However, they have urged a plan to be made to help maintain the seven campuses next school year.
* What is the projected deficit at Acero, and why were the Paz and Cruz de Acero campuses identified for closure?
+ According to CPS officials, the projected deficit at Acero is primarily due to the financial struggles of the Paz and Cruz de Acero campuses, which have been cited as the main reason for the closure.
