Supporters of Acero charter schools erupted in cheers after the Chicago Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution Friday to save seven schools from closure this year. Five of these schools will then be absorbed by Chicago Public Schools (CPS) in 2026. This decision follows weeks of protests from parents and educators against the planned closings. Dozens celebrated the vote at a special board meeting Friday night, which was also largely focused on the future of CPS CEO Pedro Martinez.
However, the resolution’s success hinges on the cooperation of Acero charter officials. The board and CPS lack the authority to force Acero to keep the schools open. The resolution calls for a plan to be developed with Acero to maintain the seven campuses for the next school year. Officially transferring five schools to district control in 2026-27 would require separate action next year.
In a letter to Acero families, CPS officials expressed their intention to follow the board’s direction but emphasized the need for a memorandum of agreement with Acero. The letter acknowledged the anxiety caused by the uncertainty of recent months and thanked families for making their voices heard. The plan still leaves two schools, Acero’s Paz and Cruz campuses, slated for closure; CPS officials cited these schools as major contributors to Acero’s projected deficit, the initial reason for the proposed closures.