Wednesday, January 13, 2021 — The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS) congratulates Representative Emanuel “Chris” Welch (D-Hillside) on his election to Speaker of the House by the Illinois Democratic Caucus for the 102nd General Assembly. INCS looks forward to working in partnership with Speaker Welch on our policy priorities to ensure all students, teachers, and families, especially those in charter public schools, are supported and have the necessary state resources to access high-quality public schools in every Illinois community.
Charter public schools educate nearly 63,000 students across the state and serve a higher percentage of students who have for too long been systemically underserved by the public education system, including students from low-income communities and students of color. More so, charter public school families and our communities have been some of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools will need bold leadership and state resources to recover and best support our students academically, socially, and emotionally as we continue to navigate through this unprecedented time.
With Speaker Welch’s leadership, our hope is for the public education sector to continue on a path of collaboration and rise above politics to put the needs of all students and families first – no matter if they choose a charter public school or a district-run school. INCS stands ready and prepared to roll up our sleeves and get to work on behalf of all our state’s public school students.
INCS also wants to recognize the leadership of Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) and his tremendous contributions over the years to support charter public school families and students in their pursuit of a high-quality public education in their community. Because of his leadership, more students and families now have equitable access to high-quality public schools and bright futures no matter their zip code.
ABOUT THE ILLINOIS NETWORK OF CHARTER SCHOOLS
The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS) advocates for the improvement of public education by leveraging the charter school model as a catalyst to transform lives and communities. As the voice of Illinois charter schools, INCS engages a diverse coalition of policymakers, school leaders, parents, and community members to create systemic change and secure high-quality schools for underserved communities. Learn more at incschools.org.