There’s a new story emerging in Chicago—a story of academic progress in the city’s public schools.
Despite the endless political drama that surrounds the Chicago Public Schools, elementary students are making academic gains that outpace their peers in Illinois and the nation.
In high schools, more students are graduating and, slowly but surely, more graduates are earning college degrees.
While achievement gaps remain wide and there is still plenty of work to do to ensure all students are educated to their full potential, Chicago schools have come a long way from 30 years ago, when they were saddled with the tagline: “worst in the nation.”
It’s Your Turn
In April, a Chicago Tribune editorial asked an important question about Chicago’s remarkable academic progress: What are the elements in schools and their communities that are driving these gains?
While researchers continue to dig for answers, Chicago Unheard wants to hear from you—parents, students, teachers and staff, principals and committed neighbors. What are you seeing in your schools and neighborhoods that is improving learning and success for young people? And where are there still challenges our city needs to meet?
Tell us your stories.
Maureen Kelleher