Overview

• The Chicago Board of Education approved renewals for 21 charter schools on two- to four-year terms following months of delay.
• Each contract imposes new rules requiring up to 18 months’ advance notice for campus closures and the return of unused funds within 45 days.
• The board increased emphasis on charters’ records of student discipline and services for English learners and special education students in its review process.
• Urban Prep’s two campuses received two-year renewals with additional conditions, including monthly cash flow reports and a revised governance plan.
• The Illinois Network of Charter Schools criticized the shortened terms as misaligned with student interests and national authorization standards.