Why Invest?

Why Invest in New Schools for Chicago?

Our track-record demonstrates we know how to identify the best school models, and how to help keep them on track.   You can trust your investment will improve the lives of Chicago’s children because our schools perform.

Demand Far Exceeds Supply
Despite the success we’ve had, at least 12,000 students are on waiting lists for charters schools.  More than 150,000 children are relegated to “education deserts” – communities with few if any adequately performing schools.  Many of these schools have been failing for decades.  Most of these children have no chance for a quality education.

Investments of the New Schools Fund
Using a rigorous double-screening process, we will invest in the best local talent, outstanding national school models, and leading innovators creating the next generation of schools.

Portfolio Performance
Our schools will significantly out-perform comparison schools, community schools, and the District on a wide range of metrics including state tests, student growth, college readiness/success, and sustaining improvement over time.

Market Share
In five years, 50 additional new schools will provide almost 30,000 new high-quality seats, bringing the total to about 80,000 charter seats or 20 percent of the District.  By 2020, our schools would serve more than 115,00 public school students, or 30 percent of the District.

More Graduates & College Enrollment
About 10,000 additional students will graduate from high school in Chicago and over 12,000 more will enroll in college than if they went to traditional schools.

New School Models
Our investments will accelerate the development of next-generation teaching and learning environments.

District Wide Innovation and Quality
We promote activities that force innovation and excellence to flow from our schools to the District and back, so all boats rise.

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