Chicago Schools Save Seven Charters from Closure

In a surprising move, the Chicago Board of Education decided to keep seven charter schools from closing. These schools, run by Acero Schools, were planned to shut down at the end of the year. The board voted unanimously to fund a rescue plan that will keep all seven schools open for another year. Two of these schools, however, might still close by next year, but the board is considering absorbing them as well. This decision was made after months of protests and debates. Parents, teachers, and even students spoke emotionally about their schools, urging the board to keep them open.The teachers' union demanded that Acero use its reserve funds to help pay for this plan. The board also agreed to manage five of these schools starting next year. This is a big deal because it means the district will take over these schools and run them. The schools will need around $3. 2 million to stay open next year, and about $28 million to convert and run all seven schools the year after. The board's decision was celebrated by many, but some are worried about the financial burden and the board's ability to make such big decisions.