The Illinois Network of Charter Schools supports the initial reopening framework released today by the Chicago Public Schools. The district’s preliminary reopening plan puts the needs of students, families, and communities first as our city continues to face this unprecedented crisis. Moving forward with a hybrid model that prioritizes the health and safety of students and staff, but also provides the benefits of in-person instruction and remote learning allows educators the opportunity to work directly with their families and communities to provide a high-quality education and the services necessary to support students and meet their individual needs.
The charter school community’s mission has always been to deliver high-quality education to its students and communities. We believe autonomy and flexibility at the school level, while still following strict health protocols, allows for educators to innovate and tailor the educational experience to meet the differing needs of children and communities. That is true now more than ever. A “one size fits all” approach to education does not work for all children. It did not work before the pandemic and it does not work now. We intend to collaborate and work together with the district, schools, communities and families to safely provide the education students deserve.