2025-26 Renewal Public Hearing

001All right. Good afternoon. My name is Margaret Fitzpatrick and I'm a practicing attorney. The Office of Innovation and Incubation at Chicago Public Schools has retained me to preside as an independent hearing officer for this public hearing. The purpose of this hearing is to receive public comment regarding the renewal of the following seven school operators. Academy for Global Citizenship Charter School, Acero Charter Schools, Chicago Collegiate Charter School, Chicago Math and Science Academy Charter School, Christopher House Charter School, Intrinsic Charter School, and University of Chicago Charter School. Notice of this hearing was provided by a newspaper publication in the Chicago Tribune on Tuesday, December 30th, 2025. Copies of this public notice are available upon request. This hearing is scheduled for today, January 8th, 2026, to commence at 4:00 and to conclude at 8:00 p.m. or after the

002last speaker, whichever comes first. Interested members of the public wishing to speak at this hearing were advised to sign up in advance through a link provided in the hearing notice. Members of the public who registered to speak were given the option to attend either in person or virtually by using their phone. Those who preferred to attend virtually were given information to access this meeting by dialing a number and using their phone. I encourage anyone wishing to provide public comment to email a written statement to and I'll read the um email address small letters I and I public hearings all one word at cps.edu. CPS will continue to receive written comments through Friday, January 9th, 2026 at 12 o'clock PM. Again, the email is I and I public hearings plural at cps.edu. The time is now

0034:03 and this hearing is in session. at the as the Office of Innovation and Incubation's dulyapp appointed hearing officer, I'm here today to take public testimony. With the assistance of the CPS technical team, we have imposed procedures that have been shared with the speakers in advance to ensure that these proceedings are orderly. We're not here to engage in discussion, but rather to hear from the public. I will be solely responsible for conducting the hearing efficiently and impartially. I may impose any procedures or limitations necessary to ensure these proceedings are orderly. I expect all in attendance to be courteous, respectful, and civil. Please turn off your cell phones or put them on vibrate, and please turn off any other electrical devices that may create a disturbance during this hearing. Spanish interpretation is available to accommodate families

004who need translation support as well as an American Sign Language interpreter. After hearing all the testimony today, I will prepare a summary of the public testimony which will be provided to CPS staff and to the board of education and I will determine whether this procedure complied with the requirements of state law and the rules of the board. This hearing is being recorded and notes are being taken to provide a better summary. Renewal decisions will be considered by Dr. Meline King, the interim CEO superintendent of Chicago public schools and by the Chicago Board of Education prior to February 26 board meeting. My summary and report are provided for the board's consideration for that purpose. As I've stated, the purpose of this hearing is to receive comments from interested members of the public concerning the 202526 charter

005school renewals. To begin the hearing, I will call upon Michelle Washington, the director of performance and accountability in the office of innovation in incubation to make a statement concerning the charter schools and the renewal process. After Rochelle speaks, I will call on representatives from the seven schools and each representative will have up to four minutes to speak. After the CPS representative and school representatives have spoken, I will call on those members of the public who have signed up to speak. For speakers joining us virtually, um they'll uh press star six to unmute. When you are called to speak, please state your name for the record. Then state your affiliation. for instance, what school or community organization you represent or whether you are a parent or so forth. All speakers will be limited to two minutes

006each. When there are 30 seconds remaining, you will be informed so that you can proceed to conclude your remarks to allow the next speaker to begin. For anyone standing with a speaker, um, note that in order to comply with the city's fire code, we ask that you stand along the glass partitions on the marked spots to keep the aisles clear. Thank you. Uh, after this hearing concludes, the Office of Innovation Incubation will continue to accept written comments until 12:00 p.m. Friday, January 9th. sent by the email again in public [email protected]. All right, we're ready to begin and I will call on Michelle Washington from the Office of Innovation and Incubation to give the CPS statement. Thank you, Michelle. >> Good afternoon, madame hearing officer. My name is Rochelle Washington and I'm the director of performance

007and accountability in the office of innovation and incubation for Chicago public schools. The Office of Innovation and Incubation oversees 93 charter and contract schools and programs. The purpose of tonight's hearing is to accept comments from the public regarding the renewal of charter and contract schools whose contracts expire on June 30th, 2026. I will refer to these schools as the renewal cohort. It comprises seven charter school operators. The district takes a holistic approach to reviewing charter and contract schools and its processes incorporate national best practices. I would like to provide some background information on this year's renewal process. After my statement, representatives from each school organization will make brief statements about their school. On September 9th, 2025, the Office of Innovation and Incubation held an initial meeting with school boards and leadership from this year's renewal

008cohort, providing schools with an overview of the process and releasing its renewal application. CPS followed up on its initial meeting with one-on-one meetings with school leadership and board presidents from each school to discuss their application and preliminary performance findings. Upon receipt of the renewal applications, comprehensive evaluations were conducted of the school's academic, financial, and operational performance and assessed pursuant to the terms of their school agreements and applicable law. This comprehensive evaluation process followed rigorous and transparent criteria that were provided to the renewal cohort along with the renewal application. Formal renewal site visits are another component of the renewal review to ensure a holistic view of school quality. This fall, the office of innovation and incubation partnered with the office for students with disabilities to conduct special education site visits for all campuses in the cohort

009and the office of social emotional learning to conduct culture and climate site visits at select campuses in the cohort. In addition, as in prior cycles, I and I also conducted academic site visits. All renewal site visits consist of a variety of activities such as classroom observation, document review, and focus groups with school leadership, teachers, students, and parents to make findings using rigorous researchbased protocol. The board of education is scheduled to vote on the renewal of these operators at its February 26th, 2026 board meeting. Thank you again for attending this hearing. I look forward to hearing from the schools and members of each community. >> Thank you, Michelle. All right, as I stated, I'll hear from the schools now. Uh the first school we have on board is um Academy for Global Citizenship is Sarah Elizabeth,

010founder and executive director. My name is Sarah Elizabeth and I'm the founder and executive director of the Academy for Global Citizenship, a K8 public charter school serving Chicago Southwest side. AGC was founded with a clear and enduring mission to educate the whole child and prepare students to be thoughtful, engaged citizens of our city and our world. From the beginning, we have believed that academic excellence, equity, and community well-being are inseparable and that all schools must be designed to address these core values. Today, AGC serves nearly 500 K8 students in a rigorous wall-to-wall dual language and international balora program. Grounded in sustainability, culturally affirming instruction and global citizenship, our students demonstrate strong academic growth, high attendance, and successful transitions to competitive high schools, including selective enrollment and IB programs. ACC is also a learning laboratory and

011incubator of innovation. We actively collaborate with CPS district operated schools sharing practices in bilingual education, MTSS systems, restorative approaches and data informed instruction. We regularly host CPS leaders, principles and educators who come from across the city to learn from our model and we are equally committed to learning alongside them. We see ourselves not separate from the district but as a partner advancing shared goals for Chicago students. Our recently completed campus reflects this philosophy in practice. AGC is a sustainable community school intentionally designed as a community hub. Our campus includes a working urban farm, an on-site health clinic, a community market, an early childhood programming, and spaces for family learning and engagement. Together, these elements form an ecosystem that supports students and families by addressing these barriers of health, food access, and stability while keeping academic

012achievement at the center. This work is sustained by strong governance and disciplined financial stewardship. Our board exercises rigorous oversight, maintains long-term financial planning systems, and endorses a reserve policy that has been in place since our founding. AGC consistently meets or exceeds CPS financial standards, maintains more than six months cash on hand, and has never required a CPS cash advance. At a moment when fiscal responsibility across the charter sector is under heightened scrutiny, AGC stands as a model of transparency, stability, and prudent management. We are deeply aligned with CPS priorities around equity, accountability, and continuous improvement. Our academic results, governance practices, and community centered model reflect a long-term commitment to public education in Chicago. As you consider AGC's renewal, we respectfully request a 10-year charter renewal. A renewal of this length reflects AGC's demonstrated academic performance,

013strong governance, fiscal responsibility, and leadership stability. It would allow us to continue planning responsibly, steward public resources effectively, and deepen the partnerships that underpin our sustainable community school model. A 10-year renewal also provides the stability necessary to sustain innovation, share learning with district operated schools, and continue serving as a strong, reliable partner to Chicago public schools. AGC is a high-erforming, financially sound, community centered public schools that delivers results, strengthens the broader educational ecosystem. We are grateful for our partnership with CPS and respectfully ask for the opportunity to continue that partnership through a tenure renewal. Thank you for your time, your leadership, and your commitment to Chicago's students and communities. >> Thank you. We'll hear now from Asero Alfredo Nambo. Good evening uh madam hearing officer, CPS board members, Asetto school supporters and fellow cohort members.

014My name is Alfredo Nambo and I'm the chief education officer for Aetto schools. I am grateful for the opportunity to stand before you today on behalf of more than 5100 students, hundreds of dedicated colleagues and thousands of graduates, parents, caregivers, and multi-generational families who together make up our learning communities. Born on Chicago southwest side, Aetto Schools has proudly served communities for 28 years that have historically been underserved by the US educational system. Our schools are not just buildings where learning happens. They are anchors of of stability, hope, opportunity for families who entrust us with what matters most, their children. The last 15 months have been especially difficult for our learning communities. The decision made by the Asetto's board of directors to secure the future of the eight schools participating in this renewal process has understandably

015been the focus of both your deliberation and ours. These moments have not been easy, but they have underscored what is at stake. We remain deeply appreciative of the partnerships we have built with the CPSI team and others across the district who have worked alongside us to facilitate this transition with care, transparency, and shared responsibility. Today, I want to focus not just on challenges but on the future of a set of schools and on the meaningful contributions our educators, administrators, support staff, scholars, families, and community partners make every single day. We are woven into the fabric of Archer Heights, Brighton Park, Gage Park, and Gailwood. This neighborhood shape who we are just as our schools help shape the future of the children. While the work of education continues to evolve, our commitment to our students, families,

016and team members remains unwavering, and we intend to serve this communities for generations to come. Asetto Schools is 97% Latino serving. More than 56% of our students are bilingual or bilingual emergent, twice the proportion served by CPS overall. Just over 15% of our students are diverse learners. We do not see these priority groups as challenges to overcome, but it's strengths to celebrate. Our schools uplift and reflect the cultures, languages, lived experiences of our families, and this is evident in the authentic engagement that brings our buildings to life each day. There is constant buzz in our schools created by students, staff, parents and partners and it is the lifeblood of our learning communities. Our SC our scholars are encouraged to take up space to lead and to see themselves as beacons for their communities. The data

017you have reviewed reflects the reality. 80% of Aetto schools are designated commendable by ISP compared to a district average of 64%. Our most recent annual attendance rate is 91% exceeding the district average of 88%. More than 94% of our high school freshmen are on track to graduate within four years compared to 83% districtwide. Garcia and Sto high schools have a 91% cohort graduation rate well above the district 77%. But these numbers, while important, tell only part of the story. We are deeply rooted in our communities and understand our responsibility in launching the next generation of extraordinary lifelong learners, discerners, and doers. Families are essential partners in this work. Through our padres compromos program in partnership with Unidos US, we have graduated more than 700 parents and caregivers, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to

018navigate the US educational system and advocate for change. This trust allows us to host more than 45 community partners at our annual back to school bash and to collaborate with organizations like Cradle to Crayons Chicago, which provided 5,000 backpacks filled with supplies so our students could begin the school year prepared. We are thankful for the opportunity to meet and exceed CPS expectations across the academic, operational, financial, and equity domains. The root cause analysis process challenge us to dig deeper, reflect honestly, and continuously improve values that are foundational to who we are at a set of schools. >> That is time >> of all of this is taking place during a time of heightened hostility and immigration related uncertainty for many of our families. While these conditions have been unprecedented and deeply painful, they have also

019re revealed extraordinary courage, leadership, and collaborative care. We see it every day in our schools. It is why we respectfully seek no less than a 5-year renewal so we can continue the collaboration, sustain growth, advancing student outcomes, and carry forward the transformative work of our communities. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. We'll hear now from Collegiate Tracy Sandlin. My name is Tracy Salin and I'm the chief executive officer of Chicago Collegiate Charter School. Chicago Collegiate exists for one reason, to ensure that every scholar, especially those historically denied the opportunity, graduates from high school prepared to succeed in college, career, and life, and most importantly, returns to their to strengthen their community and our city. Our vision is bold and measurable. 100% of our scholars complete college within six years of high school graduation if

020they so choose to attend. We opened in 2013 serving fourth and fifth graders. And I had the privilege of founding our high school, serving as principal, and graduating our two founding classes with 100% college acceptance. But this is not an abstract concept to me. I'm a third generation Chicago educator with deep roots in Rosland. My grandparents and godparents lived on the same block for more than 60 years. My parents grew up on that block and graduated from Finger High School just minutes from Chicago Collegiate. My grandfather even taught some of our alumni parents, one who's going to speak here later on today. That's a continuity of trust and accountability and belief is rare and is powerful. From the beginning, we made promises to our families and community and we keep them. We promised that 100%

021of our students would gain entry to college. We promised they would persist and complete their degrees and we promised that they would return prepared to lead and serve in our community. In the past three years, this renewal term, we had delivered on those promises with consistency. Our college persistence rate from scholars from Rosen is approximately 14 percentage points higher than the district average. Since 2023, we've doubled the percentage of our scholars meeting or exceeding ALA standards. And in math, we've seen a 30% increase in scholars meeting, exceeding, or approaching standards. We've achieved effectively doubledigit growth across nearly every academic metric and sustained our ISBY commendable designation since 2022. We continue to graduate every class with 100% college acceptances. And over the past six years, we averaged 10 college acceptances per scholars. And as of today,

022I was actually as of December, 100% of the class of 2026 already holds at least one college acceptance and has earned over $70 million in merit-based scholarships. Also important to us is the fact that our diverse learners perform at or near the level of their peers. And we've also had 100% on-time IEP compliance for past six years. We've continued to reduce and work to uh reduce our exclusionary discipline rates. Our staff retention exceeded 95% in both school year 24 and 25, reflecting our strong leadership, effective coaching, and a healthy professional culture. We continue to maintain a high school weight list, and even as we increase the number of scholars that we could serve, we continue to have strong relationships with Mima Music, the Far South C, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, the Chicago Opera House,

023our kids will be performing opera next year, Amazon, Arco Murray, Metropol Metropolitan Family Services, the Fifth District Cap's office, and many others. In fact, in partnership with the Live Your Dreams Foundation, we have given away over 125,000 pounds of food to the entire Rosen community in the past 15 months alone. We've exited financial mediation. We've negotiated all of our major contracts, and we worked to stabilize our long-term fiscal health without sacrificing teachers pay, student support, or the student experience. Our students experience college not as a distant hope, but as an expectation. Our graduates are now becoming engineers, trade people's, artists, caregivers, raising their families to stay connected to Collegiate. We are also building for the future. We're currently under construction on a new facility with a grand opening scheduled for August the 26th, ensuring stability

024and growth for the next generation of scholars and a professionally curated facility that reflects most importantly their excellence and their identity. Members of the board, we are a network that keeps its word. We have met or exceeded nearly every academic operation, financial, governor standard set before us. We are delivering results for Rosland families. We are trusted by our community and our community wants us. In fact, we had 10 new scholars enroll since we came back from school on January 5th. Today, I respectfully ask that you renew Chicago Collegiia Charter School for at least seven years so we can continue fulfilling the promise we made to our families and to the city of Chicago. As our community has said for years, we didn't come this far only to come this far. Thank you. >> Thank you.

025Uh Chicago Math and Science Angela Hulls. Good afternoon, members of the Chicago Board of Education, CPS leadership, Conrad Timbers, educators, families, and community members. My name is Angela Holtz, principal of Chicago Math and Science Academy, and I'm here today to speak in strong and wholehearted support of a 10-year renewal for Chicago Math and Science Academy. Chicago Math and Science Academy has been serving students and families in Rogers Park for 21 years. As many of you may know, Rogers Park is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city where over 60 languages are spoken. At CMSA, we have a very diverse school community where over 32 different languages are spoken. And as I like to share with many, our diversity is our strength. Throughout our 21 years, Chicago Math and Science Academy has become a

026far more than just a building in Rogers Park. It has become a cornerstone of the community. CMSA is a generational school. Families return year after year, not just with siblings, but across generations. Parents who once sat in the the classrooms now entrust their own children to the same school because they know that CMSA represents stability, opportunity, and high expectations paired with genuine care. In a city where change is constant and uncertainty can disrupt learning, CMSA has provided consistency. For over two decades, it has remained committed to its mission, its student, and its community. That kind of longevity matters. It speaks to trust, resilience, and the ability to adapt while stay grounded in its core values. C CMSA believes in the power of high expectations and believes every child can learn and succeed. Chicago Math and

027Science Academy is a place where excellence thrives. Our school has received many accomplishments and recognitions over the years. US News and World Report has highly rated CMSA for many years. CMSA has been the number one charter high school in the state of Illinoisinoisi. For the most two recent two years, CMSA has been rated the number two charter high school in the state of Illinois. We are rated just behind our sister school, Horizon Science McKinley Park High School. CMSA is also currently ranked the number 17 best Chicago public high school. At CMSA, academic rigor is not just an inspiration. It is a daily practice. Students are challenged to think critically, solve problems, and prepare for life beyond high school. CMSA offers 15 AP classes and a variety of dual credit classes to its high school students.

028Currently, on the Illinois State Report Card, CMSA's data shows that last year, our average ACT score outperformed the district and state average ACT scores. At the same time, CMSA understands that excellence is built through relationships. Students are known, supported, and encouraged to grow, not only as learners, but as individuals. The teachers and staff try their best to honor everyone's dignity, and they work tireously to create a culture that is structured, respectful, and supportive. CMSA is a place where students feel safe to learn, take risks, and s and succeed. This culture does not happen by chance. It is the result of years of experience, reflection, and continuous improvement. CMSA has learned from its challenges, strengthened its practices, and remained focused on what matters most, student success and student well-being. Equally important, Chicago Math and Science Academy

029provides families in Rogers Park with the meaningful and much neededed option. Choice matters. Families deserve access to schools that reflect their values, meet their children's needs, and offer highquality education. CMSA expands those options by offering a rigorous STEM college focused environment within the public school system. For many families, CMSA is not an alternative. It is their first choice and oftens the school they actively seek out. A 10-year renewal is not simply an administrative decision. It is a statement of confidence. It allows a school to plan for the future, invest in long-term initiatives, retain dedicated staff, and continue strengthening programs that benefit students. Short-term rules create uncertainty that impacts families, educators, and students alike. After 21 years of experience, Chicago Math and Science Academy has earned that stability. It has demonstrated commitment, consistency, and a clear

030positive impact on the community it serves. Granting a tenure renewal affirms the value of a school that has stood the test of time and continues to meet the needs of its students and families. CMSA is a place of excellent where excellence thrives, where generations of families have found opportunity, and where Rogersburg has another strong public education option. I respectfully urge the board and Conrad Timbers to recognize this legacy and this promise by granting Chicago Math and Science Academy a 10-year renewal. CMSA received a seven-year renewal last renewal term. And you know, Mr. Timbers, this time CMSA deserves a 10-year renewal. You came and visited with Dr. Carmona and you witnessed CMSA's excellence. CMSA welcomes all CPS board members to come and visit at their convenience. We will be reaching out to each of you again

031and extending a hand. Please accept our or accept our invitation. >> Thank you, Miss House. >> Thank you for your time, your service, and your consideration. >> All right. Our next speaker, I believe, will be um phone a phon Christopher House, Julie Dakers. Good evening, uh, Chicago Public Schools Board of Directors. Um, this is Julie Dakers, and I have the pleasure of serving as the chief executive officer for Christopher House. For 120 years, Christopher House has proudly served the Chicago community as a pillar of support for families and children. In 2013, we expanded our vision by opening the Christopher House Family Resource Center and Elementary School, bringing to life our continuum of education and immersive family supports. Today, more than 500 families in the Belmont, Kan, and surrounding communities choose Christopher House as their trusted

032partner in education and family support. Since our founding, Christopher House has championed immigrant, marginalized, and low-income communities. We believe every child can succeed when provided with highquality education, strong family and community support, and access to essential resources. Together, we have overcome obstacles and empowered families to thrive in school, in the workplace, and in life. Guided by our core values, a commitment to excellence, achievement and perseverance, respect and compassion, and equity, we work together with families to nurture scholars, strengthen communities, and create pathways to success. One of the most impactful components of our education model is the strong sense of community and belonging that we create not only for our scholars, but for their families as well. We believe education begins at birth and create and continues throughout life with parents as the child's first and

033most important teacher. Recognizing that parents are our child's first and most important teacher and know their children best. We partner with our families to help support them and their children in achieving their dreams. Our holistic multi-generational approach ensures that when families thrive, children thrive. This commitment has proven critical not only in everyday life, but in some of the most challenging times in recent history, including the COVID pandemic and the recent traumatic impacts of immigration enforcement. Our model fosters stability, resilience, helping families navigate obstacles while staying focused on their child's future. In 2025, we continue to bring that to life in extraordinary ways. Every one of our eighth grade scholars graduated and enrolled in high school. 96% attended one of their top three best fit high schools. A testament to our commitment to guiding families through

034thoughtful choices that align with their child's strengths and aspirations. Among these scholars, 17% earned acceptance into CPS selective enrollment and international balora programs, reflecting their hard work and unwavering support of their families and educators. Our success is rooted in collaboration. Parents and staff work together to continually strengthen programming and education and the results speak volumes. 87% of our families and parents report overall satisfaction. 95% have affirmed that their child feels a sense of belonging in their school community. 88% saw improvement in their child's social emotional learning skills. >> Families trust us not only for their education but for essential supports. Academically, our students continue to show growth year-over-year, supported by strategic goals and resource alignment. Yet, we know growth alone is not enough. We remain committed to pushing beyond progress towards higher achievement levels, excellence

035because our scholars deserve nothing less. Beyond academics, we are focused on delivering a strong school culture shaped by feedback from scholars, families, and staff. We have met or exceeded all financial, operational, and governance metrics, demonstrating stability and accountability. That is why we ask you for your continued support in granting Christopher House a 5-year charter renewal. This renewal will provide stability for our families and community that they deserve while allowing us to continue to improve on quality, reaching new levels of excellence. It will ensure we deliver a promise for every child and every family to walk alongside them as partners, innovators, and champions for their future. Together, these milestones reflect more than numbers. They tell a story of a community united for a shared vision. When families thrive, children thrive. Thank you for believing in our

036mission and for standing with us as we continue this vital work. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll hear from Intrinsic now, Michelle Trojan. Good evening and thank you for the opportunity to speak today. My name is Michelle Trojan and I'm the principal of Intrinsic Schools Belmont campus. I joined Intrinsic in 2014, first as dean of culture, then as assistant principal, and now principal. and I'm honored to lead in a school that serves as both an academic home and community anchor for our families. As someone who grew up a block away from Intrinsic, this work is deeply personal to me. I know how critical it is for families to have a highquality, trusted public school option close to home, one that provides safety, rigor, and opportunity for every student. Intrinsic's mission is to prepare all

037students for post-secary success in world changing endeavors. As a public charter school with open enrollment and no testing requirements, we are intentionally designed to be accessible, inclusive, and deeply responsive to the needs of our community. Since opening in 2013, our Belmont campus has served approximately 1,000 students each year in grades 7 through 12, primarily from the Belmont, Kraen, Portage Park, and Hermosa neighborhoods. Families consistently choose Intrinsic for three reasons. Safety for our unique instructional model and strong partnerships with parents and caregivers. In fact, 93% of incoming 9th grade families report choosing intrinsic because they believe it's a safe and inclusive environment. Family partnership is not an add-on in intrinsic. It's a core strategy. On average, 97% of families participated in quarterly studentled conferences reinforcing shared ownership of learning between students, families, and educators. We also

038maintain a highly engaged parent advisory council and bilingual parent advisory council with meetings offered to ensure all families have a meaningful voice. Our instructional model is intentionally designed to meet the needs of all learners. Students learn in pods, approximately 60 students supported by two content teachers and a special education teacher. This team teaching structure allows for differentiation, personalization, and strong inclusion for students with IEPs, 504 plans, and English learners. Students also exercise agency through a weekly C-day schedule where they select their own academic support and enrichment opportunities, while a 4-year advisory model ensures every student is well known and supported consistently. To ensure instructional excellence, we rely on strong data-informed leadership at the school level. Our ILT meets weekly to review student data, monitor academic progress, and plan targeted professional development. These regular data reviews

039allow us to respond quickly to student needs, strengthen teaching practice, and ensure consistency across classrooms. At the network level, cross-campus leaders provide additional oversight and support, allowing us to align resources and maintain high expectations across all programs. Post-secondary success is the heart of our work. Beginning in ninth grade, students participate in at least two college and career visits. As seniors, students received individualized counseling supported by a director of post-secary and a 1 to40 counselor to senior ratio. Through the intrinsic scholarship, we provide $1.5 million in scholarships to each graduating class. Last year, 90 Belmont students received scholarships, lowering the average annual out-of- pocket cost to less than $4,000 and removing financial barriers. Today, we are respectfully requesting a 7-year charter renewal. This renewal is essential to ensuring stability for our students, families, and staff. Long-term

040stability allows us to retain excellent educators, deepen family and community partnerships, and continue delivering strong academic and post-secondary outcomes. Intrinsic is more than a school. It is a partner to families, a cornerstone of the neighborhood, and a place where students are prepared not only for college and careers, but for life. Thank you for your time, your partnership, and your consideration. Thank you. University of Chicago Ana Sergeant. Good evening. My name is Ana Sergeant and I am the interim chief executive officer of the University of Chicago Charter School or UCCCS. I stand before you to ask for your support for a 5-year charter renewal to continue building on our proven track record of success. UCCCS began as a bold partnership between the University of Chicago and the Southside community with a shared vision. Support Southside CPS

041families and students and give them access to the University of Chicago's resources and community. Since 1998, UCCCs has become essential to the North Kenwood Oakland, Bronzeville, and Woodlong communities, as well as those that surround them. Two of our three campuses were opened in previously shuttered buildings, helping to revitalize these neighborhoods. In 2018, UCCCs built a new top-of-class middle and high school facility that deepened its ties to the Woodlong community. This building project was funded by the University of Chicago and its donors thanks to our unique position within the university and the university continues to support that campus. Our vision is rooted in how UCCCS can be a pillar of support for Southside families. For over a decade, UCCCs has worked with community members to green up the Southside. Our staff helped lead the creation of

042the 64th Street Sustainability Garden located across from our Woodlon campus. Last year, UCCCs unveiled its newly completed multiport athletic field located next to the middle and high school campus and open for use by the local community. The field was built with the support of the University of Chicago and its donors. With community input, we envisioned the field serving as a vibrant recreational resource for nearby residents, youth groups, community gatherings, and it is doing just that. In addition, UCCCs supports all CPS students college aspirations through our by-anual college fairs, which are open to the public. Our college graduation office also hosts community center days where staff help neighborhood students as well as our students in UCCCs complete college essays, financial aid forms, and more, which has led to over $70 million in scholarship money last year

043alone. For many on the Southside, UCCCs is more than a school. It is a source of stability, a family. For the past 27 years, generations of parents have entrusted us with their children from preK through 12th grade. We have without fail met or exceeded every financial performance standard set by CPS, demonstrating our careful stewardship of public funds and respect for the privilege of serving our community. Most importantly, we're delivering measurable academic results with student achievement matching or exceeding nearby non- selective CPS schools serving predominantly black students. At our core, our mission is to prepare our students for college acceptance and graduation through our preK through 12 superighway to college. A key part of our success strategy is ensuring that the support students receive doesn't just stop when they finish high school. This has led our

044high school alumni to persist in college at the seventh highest rate of the 40 plus charter high schools in the district and the fourth highest among charter schools serving predominantly black students according to data from the two and through project. By granting a five-year renewal, you are enabling us to focus our full capacity on the metrics that matter most for all of our students futures. Thank you to your commitment to CPS students and to all students. Thank you. That concludes our um speakers from the seven schools and I'm going to move now into the public speaking. I have um a list of those persons who have signed up to speak. The first school um is global citizenship and those speakers. The first one is virtual uh Rosio Carto. >> Good afternoon. Uh my name is

045Rosio Carto and I am truly humbled to be speaking for the global citizenship uh where my son Mateo Carto is a second grade student. As a first-time mother, I vividly remember when Mateo was only 5 years old and the pressure of not knowing what will be the best option when choosing the school where he will begin uh his educational journey. For an entire year, my husband and I searched and visited numerous schools in the city of Chicago, and there are many exceptional options. This test was not easy, as we were searching for a non-traditional school where our son could thrive. When I first heard of AGC through a teacher, if I felt an incredible sense of calming knowing we had found what we were looking for, a non-traditional school where Matthew could continue to thrive

046and be his authentic self. AGC has given a dream come true school. A school where children's can be children stress-free, learning at their own pace and embracing life with joy. AgC cultivates not only love but also its own garden which is beautifully incorporated in their lunches. Matel has continued to flourish and grow. In just three years, AGC has given Matil the precious gift of mindfulness, allowing him to pause and appreciate the beauty of life in his surroundings. They have empowered him to be his own person, a thoughtful thinker, a creative problem solver, and a passionate lover for nature. >> 30 seconds. >> The impact that AGC has in Mateo has made in Mateo is a miracle. At only 70 years old, Mateo has already began to make positive impact in our community, asking us to

047help and spurred awareness about the importance of planting more trees in our neighborhood. AGC is exactly what we were looking for with an incredible staff and the most caring principles. Thank you for your time. >> Thank you. Um, our next speaker is Alexander Antiveros. Good evening and thank you for the opportunity to speak. As a Latino educator working in a predominantly Latino school community, this renewal process is very meaningful to me. Many of our students see themselves reflected in their peers, their families, and their teachers, and that matters. For a lot of our families, school hasn't always felt like a place where their language, culture, or experiences were fully valued. Here they are. My role at the school is middle school coordinator, and I also support our eighth grade students as they transition to high

048school. I am proud to say that 100% of our students graduate with a choice in where they want to attend high school. This is because we intentionally prepare students academically, socially, and emotionally through strong relationships, high expectations, and a school culture that affirms who they are while pushing them toward who they can become. From preK through 8th grade, we are intentional about supporting the whole child through a clear social emotionally learning continuum. Our youngest students focus on building a sense of safety, belonging, and emotional awareness. As they grow, they develop self-management, empathy, and accountability. By middle school, our students are expected to reflect, problem solve, and take ownership of their choices, skills that matter just as much as academics. That work is deeply connected to our international bachelorette framework. In our dual language program, students

049are thought to think critically, ask questions, and see the world from multiple perspectives. Being bilingual is normalized and celebrated, and students learn that their voices, both languages, have value. >> 30 seconds. Across grade levels, we intentionally build 21st century skills such as creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. Students work together, explain their thinking, and engage in learning that mirrors the real world. These are skills that will need in high school, college, careers, and beyond. Our goal has always been to prepare students not just academically, but socially and emotionally to graduate students who are confident in who they are and ready for what comes next. For these reasons, I strongly support the 10-year renewal over charter and our continued work with this community. Thank you. >> Thank you. Uh Bernice Salace. >> Good afternoon, members of

050the board. Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. I'm here to respectfully request a 10-year charter renewal for the Academy for Global Citizenship. After meeting many of you, it is clear that the board is made up of passionate, justiceoriented leaders. Those values deeply align with AGC's mission and the work we do every day. My commitment to this work is very personal. I was raised in Lvita where as a young Latina, I witnessed the inequities in my community. Those experiences shaped my determination to pursue higher ed and give back in a way that would create real change. As a student in the college of ed, I learned alongside leaders such as Rico Goodstein and I became involved in teachers for social justice where I was fortunate enough to learn from people like Karen Lewis and

051G2 Brown and the list goes on. That experience solidified my commitment to challenging the traditional factory model of schooling and building learning environments rooted in humanity and justice. My early years as a CPS teacher were challenging until a childhood friend encouraged me to look into AGC where she told me that AGC was valuesdriven and deeply human- centered. Just the kind of school that I believed in. She was right. AGC is unique with a true whole child approach and that justice warrior spirit. Agency invested in my growth as a leader and I'm proud to say that I've been part of this community for 16 years serving as the upper school principal for the past six years. Alongside my co-principal, we lead with a shared leadership model that prioritizes a human- centered environment for students, family, and

052staff while also producing strong academic outcomes, steady student growth, and data that reflects continuous improvement across grades. Agency is more than a village. It's a community hub. It's a village. It's a partner to like-minded organizations, and a place where we are proud and happy to belong. That is the AGC familia. A 10-year renewal will allow us to build on our success, deepen our impact, and continue serving our community with stability and purpose. Thank you for your time and your commitment to justice centered education. Thank you. Uh Meredith McNamera, >> good evening. I have the privile privilege of addressing you tonight as one of the founding team members at the Academy for Global Global Citizenship. In my 18 years at this organization, I have served as a teacher, a reading specialist, and interventionists, and now as

053the school's primary years IB coordinator supporting preschool through fifth grade. I have seen this school grow from a staff of less than 10 in the basement of a church to a team of close to 100 that now resides on a net positive campus welcoming visitors from around the world. During the last two decades, I have moved four times, been married, had three childrens of my own, and AGC has been my one true constant. We have literally grown up together, and I could not be prouder of what this school has accomplished so far. I came to AGC with only three years of teaching experience, a master's degree, and a lot of excitement to do something different in education. The learning curve in the next years of my career was exponential. At AGC, I began working alongside

054fellow passionate educators to build a school from the ground up. And my voice and my input, from school traditions to curriculum supports, became part of the framework that exists today. I attended professional development trainings and school visits nationally and internationally and I was given opportunities to lead and share my experiences with colleagues. >> 30 seconds. >> Many of those same colleagues still work alongside me today and have been an active part of planning and preparing for each new phase of AGC. As part of the IB program, we look to inspire agency in our students by giving them opportunities for choice, voice, and ownership over their learning. and we walk that walk with our staff as well. These initiatives and all that we have worked to create by this collaborative community of change makers, we hope

055to continue to do and we would love for the board to give a 10-year charter renewal so that we can continue this important work. >> Thank you. Yay Chavez. >> Good evening. The year was 20, sorry, 2010. I was watching TV in my living room in the suburbs when a new segment caught my attention. It was about a Chicago public charter school near where I grew up. The report highlighted how students were learning about sustainability and taking action. Not only were these students gaining knowledge about the environment, but they were also actively engaging in caring for their school garden. I watched the students talk about planting and harvesting, their excitement evident. The school emphasized organic eating and I thought to myself, I want my sons to attend a school like that. As the interviews continued,

056I saw the most caring principal I had ever encountered. And in that moment, my dream expanded. I then said to myself, I want to teach at a school like that. A few months later, I found myself moving back to Chicago. I waited patiently for an opportunity, applied, landed an interview, and successfully got the job. I started as a part-time teaching assistant and continued to move forward. With the help, guidance, and encouragement and love from my colleagues who I now consider family, I kept growing. I transitioned from a teacher's assistant to a full-time instructional inter interventionalist and then became a paraprofessional working with diverse learners. Along the way, I earned a bachelor's degree, which opened up an another opportunity for me to become the wellness teacher. As a wellness teacher, I took the advantage of another

057opportunity to complete a 200 hour training yoga during the summer through our school's innovation funds. This training allowed me to implement mindfulness practices with my students, colleagues, and the community. >> 30 seconds. >> Recognizing the importance of mindfulness in my students well-being. I continued to practice um to be better support to them. Embracing a growth mindset has opened many doors for me. I now stand here with a master's degree and a triple endorsement including ECL and special education. This journey did not happen overnight. It required time, patience, sweat, and tears. Most importantly, it took the support of a whole community to help me get here, the AGC community. Thank you. >> Thank you. Uh Lisha Gun. >> Good evening. My name is Lisha Gun. I currently serve as the community engagement and partnerships coordinator at

058both the Academy for Global Citizenship and our co-located nonprofit partner, Cultivate Collective. When I was younger, I never saw myself as a global citizen. However, I spent the first part of my career working and serving overseas as a United States diplomat. I served as a consular officer in the US consulate general in Mterrey, Mexico, and also the American embassy in Mexico City from 2014 to 2016. Studying Spanish opened up new opportunities for me by learning more about US immigration policy, interviewing many visa applicants. I never thought my experiences would land me at the Academy for Global Citizenship in the midst of a heightened political climate and attacks on immigrants. After years in the foreign service, I returned to the United States and began to think deeper about education, travel, service, and culture. I began to

059dream. What if all students felt empowered, loved, and supported? What if language and culture could connect to rebuild the community? That journey led me to the academy for global citizenship and our colllocated nonprofit partner, Cultivate Collective. I helped launch a successful clean energy program with partners in fall 2025 where all of our students passed the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners exam, many of whom were alums of AGC. We also recently built a fresh food market last year where we offer fresh juice and healthy food options. Equally, I'm attracted to the dual language program and enjoy working with families who are Spanish speaking while practicing Spanish in a way that feels warm, inviting, warm and inviting. Throughout our after school and summer programming, I've watched our students grow and learn and it's been a

060joy. I believe language always returns and we can always learn again and grow as a community. I'm proud to be a member of the AGC community and provide hope and resources to families in southwest Chicago. I hope that the CPS Board of Education grants AGC a full 10-year renewal. Thank you. >> Thank you, Isella Estrada. >> Thank you all for your time this evening. I am Isa Estrada, mother of Oolin Camila and Cli Gonzalez, one alumni and two children of Academy for Global Citizenship. Tonight, I am enthusiastic to share why AGC is special to our family of learners, but also for you to know how AGC is doing transformational work beyond the walls of our school. Before my child was accepted to AGC, she was not receiving the academic and social emotional support at one

061of our CPS schools. She cried almost daily and the teacher made her feel like I was the problem for her lack of academic success. I noticed a downward spiral and worried about her future as a young learner. The following year, she transferred to AGC. Within the first semester, her teacher, Miss F, took the time to truly get to know my daughter, building a genuine relationship and in no time identified her strengths. She provided the academic support we had been advocating for the whole year before. Furthermore, Miss Helma Wardinar, director of student services, immediately established a 504 plan for her medical and academic needs, and now my daughter is thriving. AGC got it right because they know the secret sauce. The team is passionate and about their roles as educators. My children are second generation Mexican-American.

062This is a generation who often lose their native language and connection to their roots. Instead, AGC supports my children to build a strong sense of identity and cultural pride. Through AGC's strong dual language program, they have developed the skills and ability to communicate with their grandparents in Spanish, and this will support their career aspirations. Furthermore, AGC's unique quality is their mission and vision for environmental justice. This is embedded in their IB curriculum. My children own their learning and developing the social and emotional skills to be global citizens. skills much needed for the future generation of leaders. My children can tell you about the human footprint we leave behind on this earth. They know our responsibility to heal our earth and cultivate relationships through restorative practices. This also means paying attention to food sustainability. AGC asks

063our children what they like to eat and prepares culturally appropriate and sustainable lunches like bos so their favorite. They were even introduced to foods like tofu and micro greens. Almost done. As a community partner, AGC's greenhouse shares the gifts of what is produced to the families at the school and the community where it resides. This shows that AGC's partnership with the community in llair courts is reciprocal, not just taking up space in the neighborhood. In financially supporting AGC, you are also supporting the roots of a whole community of neighbors, families, and staff. Please consider AGC for the 10year renewal. Thank you. >> Thank you, Helma Wer. My name is Helma Warder and I am the founding one of the founding teachers at the Academy for Global Citizenship and I wrote a poem to capture how

064the school has shaped me as a teacher and how it continues to grow our students. Uh I kindly asked the board to consider renewing our charter with 10 years. Believe in my hands I'm holding a seed like a student small enough to doubt light enough to lose yet full of quiet curiosity. The Academy for Global Citizenship is a garden soil rich with intention trusting what cannot yet be seen knowing that tending is a act of care and at AGC care is what roots us. Seeds in a garden ask for patience. They teach us as teachers how to wait without leaving. How to return even when nothing breaks the surface. Our lessons are a way to water hope. Some days we shield fragile growth from frost. And still the seeds keep giving, not all at once

065and exactly when it's ready. At AGC we will always keep giving. In my other hand, I hold a pebble given to me on day one when I started as one of the founding teachers. Smooth with intention, heavy with meaning. Etched into it was a single word, belief. A promise disguised as a keepsake. Time was soft has softened the letters, but my belief in HC has not faded. It has grown roots. It has weathered storms. Like the seed in the garden, it remains quiet, steady, and still giving. And at ABC, we choose to remain. A garden is not uniform. Some learners grow tall quickly, others spread wide. Some take time beneath the soil. Roots twist, blooms arise out of the season. None of this is failure. It is diversity doing what it does best. Our dual

066language garden makes room to grow. Inquiry is sunlight, choice is water. And at AGC, we teach students to believe in that. >> Thank you. Why don't you uh email that in that? That's a lovely poem. Thank you. Uh next, Kelly Brinsen. >> Good evening. My name is Kelly Brinen. I'm the MTSS team lead and a former third grade teacher at the Academy for Global Citizenship where I've worked for over a decade. I'm here tonight to advocate for the longest possible charter renewal for the school that has shaped both my career and my family. As an educator, I have an inside view of AGC. I see a school intentionally curating a culture of curiosity where rigorous academic standards live alongside creativity, student voice, and a deep respect for children. Through our international baloria in dual language

067approach, learning is inquirybased, experiential, and often rooted in nature, giving students meaningful opportunities to engage with the world around them. ACC is not just a school. It is an incubator of educational innovation grounded in a deep commitment to social justice. Our students are challenged academically, supported emotionally, and empowered to see themselves as capable problem solvers and global citizenship. But I'm not just here as an educator. I am also an AGC parent. I choose to enroll my own children at AGC, a kindergartener and a third grader because this school I believe in professionally is the same school I trust to trust to shape my children's values, academic skills, confidence, and their sense of belonging. That choice is my testimony. At AGC, we don't ask whether a student could belong. We ask what does each individual need

068to thrive here? As a parent to a child with a complex disability, I bring a critical and informed eye to inclusive education. And I can say with confidence that AGC is making bold, intentional decisions in partnership and service to the disability community. AGC aligns with CPS's best practices, prioritizing access to grade level instruction, co-eing models, and learning in least restrictive environments. Through progressive co-eing and collaborative support systems, students of all abilities learn together, and everyone benefits. At AGC, inclusion is not an add-on. It is the foundation. Accumes competence. >> That is time. >> Thank you. Uh, Yendi Gonzalez. person. Fore personal. Thank you. Um, did did Ivan Sarabia Okay, sorry. Go ahead. >> Okay. Good afternoon. Buenosardes. Uh my name is Ivan Sarabia and I'm a second grade dual language teacher at the Academy for

069Global Citizenship. Uh I'm here today because as we say at our school, AGC is the place to be. Uh it's a special environment where educators have the flexibility and the support to teach the whole child and be hands-on with our students every single day. We are located on the southwest side of Chicago and the location is central to who we are. Our students and their families are the fabric of the hardworking community which is why we don't just teach in the community, we are truly a part of it. Our curriculum is designed to reflect our rich c culture and lived experiences on the southwest side, making learning immediately relevant and impactful to our students. The profound connection to our community is also the heart of our dual language program. We value Spanish and English equally,

070which helps our students feel proud of their heritage while they learn to be global citizens. Our mission to serve the whole child is also reflected in our dedication to food justice and strengthening communities through meaningful positive change. At AGC, students engage in growing food at our hoop houses and garden beds right on our campus because we want our kids to understand where their food comes from and how to be sustainable. That focus on the student carries over into our cafeteria and our classrooms. We serve healthy scratchmade breakfast and lunch every day. And we love to bring that cooking directly into our classrooms. Uh for example, when my class we were learning about simple machines. Uh we didn't just read a book and do a worksheet. We use tools like we brought blender, canned opener, juice

071presses uh to make healthy smoothies. So the kids got to learn about the physics of a wedge and deliver in action while making something healthy they could enjoy. For me, AGC is a perfect place to be a teacher because we focus on what kids really need. Movement, real world, real world skills, critical thinking, and a sense of belonging. At AGC, we have the space and flexibility to be educators that make a real impact. Thank you for supporting our mission and I also advocate for the 10 years and our community on the southwest side. Thank you. >> Thank you. All right, that concludes the speakers for global citizenship. Um I got everybody right. Okay, we're moving on to um Aero and our first speaker is virtual. Uh while we're waiting for that, I'll remind everyone to

072please keep to the two minutes. As you can see, there are many, many speakers and we want to make sure everyone has a chance. Um, especially those people that are patiently waiting. So, um, our first speaker, virtual speaker is Stephanie Cabrera. >> Good evening, president, CEO, and distinguished board members. My name is Stephanie Cabraa and I am the proud mother of Matthew who was in second grade and Jovanni Cabrera who is in third grade at Aero Hobbit. When my oldest son was accepted into this school, he had already been accepted into others. However, we were truly amazed when we attended the open house. From that moment we arrived, both the staff and the directors made us feel so welcome. They gave us personalized attention and took the time to meet us oneon-one to understand our

073expectations as parents for our children and for ourselves. I found that approach truly special. Although I have to drive 25 minutes [clears throat] each day, my children are excited to go to school because they they receive both group academic support and if needed smaller, more focused lessons in subjects where they may need extra help. This individualized attention has been crucial in helping them achieve strong academic results during these challenging times. I appreciate that the school provides mental health support and resources for our children. The communication with the staff is open, transparent, and frequent. We have multiple channels throughout which we can engage with the school ensuring we can support our children's academic, personal, and family lives. Ato doesn't just care about the academic process of its students. It advocates for us as families and provides

074us with service both in person and online. As a mother, I also value the monthly training sessions offered to parents which help us support our children in every area of their lives. Additionally, I feel fortunate to be able to volunteer for school activities and participate in various programs that empower me and other parents. Dear board members, I am grateful for the opportunity to choose where my children go to school and I have chosen a set. Please help us keep the school open for many years to come. Not just for me, but for the thousands of parents who rely on it and for many more families who are waiting for the opportunity to enroll. I ask that you do not that you do not renew it for a short period, but instead ensure it for future

075for a long term. Thank you for your timing and consideration and for allowing me to speak. >> Thank you, Maria Rodriguez. Good uh evening. Sorry. Good uh evening on members of the board. My name is Maria Rodriguez and I'm proud to represent Garcia High School on Assaro School. I am a mother of two Asaro students. One who is currently on 12th grade and another who graduated in 2022. Today I'm here to share my um ASEO has been a right choice for my family. Uh from the very first day my children began care and garden we felt welcome by the positive and supportivement created by Aseros teachers and administrators has um as a parents that environment matters uh it gives us con confidence that our children feel safe supported and happy going to school every day.

076We know that a strong school uh play a critical role in our children's future success. I chose aero because I was searching for a high quality education and today I can say I can say with a confidence what uh what g made the right decision. The teachers in Aero are not only excellent professionals, they truly have a passion for teaching. One example is Mr. Man is a chemistry teacher >> at Garcia High School. My child and his classmates were um uh to stay after school to continue learning in his class. As a parent see the level of support and examinement the of learning is incredible mimho uh because it shows the impact a great educator can have on sa's future student uh the strong senses them of tr of com to learning at aso inspiring

077to um participate and padres compromos That is time. >> Thank you. Our our next speaker is virtual Claudia Torres. >> Claudia has not called in yet. If she calls in within the Asserero group, we will get to her. Um if not, we'll get to her toward the end of the session. >> Okay. So our next virtual speaker is Mindri Kuroga. No. Uh followed by uh another virtual speaker, Elisio Montilango. >> Elisio is also not on. Okay, let's move down then to um Jayen Tovar. Good evening board members. I'm Jasine Tovar and I'm a senior at Victoria Sto High School. Sto is a small school which is the main reason I applied. I wanted to go somewhere where it would be easy to build strong bonds with my teachers. At Sto, I was able to do

078exactly that. The teachers and staff also helped with that process by genuinely wanting to get to know me. Even then, I was never pressured to speak about myself. They had always let me go at my own pace and helped me along the way. Along with feeling welcomed at Sodto, the teachers and staff put out resources like scholarships, academic groups, and internships for us students. Throughout my four years at Sodto, I have been supported and encouraged by everyone around me. And I couldn't have asked for a better high school experience. I asked the board to consider renewing our charter schools so that future students can also have the same great experience I had and have choices. Thank you. >> Thank you. Um Roxanna Contrarus. >> Good evening members of board. My name is Roxanna and I

079am a proud parent of Rihanna Chiwake, a fifth grader student at Aeta Brighten Park. I have lived in Brighton Park community over 25 years and Aetto has played a critical role in my family educational journey. I am a mother of three. Two of my children graduated from Aetto Brighton Park. One is now in college and the other attends critical me crane medical prep. Before choosing a settle, one of my ch children attended CPS school and I was not satisfied with the lack of support. I made the decision to transfer one of my child because I wanted a school that would truly meet my ch children's needs. Aetto did exactly that. Aetto Bright and Pride provides what our community needs. Small class sizes, individualized attention, and accountability. Teachers work closely with students to ensure they do

080not fall behind and stop and staff know students name. This level of care does not happen by accident. It is the result of a school model that works. I am an also an active parent leader and volunteer. I graduated from Pisto participated in civil for all attended workshops and volunteer at school events. Aetto does not just educate children. It empowers parents. They give us tools to advocate for our childrens and connect us to results with our own community. This is why charter renew matters. Families like mine rarely and a settles for stabilized quality and education and choice. Closing shortening a settleto's charters closing or shortening a setto's charter will disrupt students who are thrift and families who have intentionally chosen this school. I urge you to grant a seta a long charter renewal so our

081children can continue to receive the education they deserve and parents could continue to have strong highquality option in our neighborhood. Thank you. >> Thank you >> Margaret. Um, Mjri Kuroga rejoined so we can go to that person. >> All right. Uh, Murri Kuroga, go ahead. Just waiting for Menry to unmute. I believe the system's telling them to press star six, but yes, star six. I think that um given our time limitations, we need to move on. Uh so um Rosa Galarsa virtual also. Do we have Rosa Daniel Lopez kindergarten. Seenor director. Personos. Experience. Optimos. Gracias. >> Thank you. Uh, let's see. Ivet Esparza. Good evening. My name is Ivet Bara and I am the director of community affairs and advocacy at the Acetto schools. Tonight I want to share more about our community, our parents,

082our students, and the incredible growth we've seen through our partnership with the Unidos US program. At Ato, we don't just educate students, we empower families with programs such as the Padres's Compro, where parents learn to navigate schools and advocate for their children. Digital skills for life. Giving parents the tools to succeed in a digital world. Cultivando Menes Briantes helping parents understand how their children learn. Escalera guiding students towards college and career readiness and civics for all. Equipping equipping families with knowledge of their civic rights. These programs transform lives. And standing with me tonight, as you can see, these parents have graduated from Padres's Compromidos and some from Civics for All in these years. They are proud examples of how engagement changes a family's uh future. Um like Mr. Nambo mentioned, we had over 700 parents

083and caregivers graduate and completed these programs and their success and stories are countless. Our students shine such as brightly and led and I have led the Garcia cohort since their sophomore year. These seniors have completed their financial aid, submitted college and trading program applications and are preparing for finals and graduation. They visited universities such as Purdue, Concordia, UIC, NIU, and U of I at Urbana Champagne and volunteer at the food depository with additional community service plan at the cradles to crayons. Our community craves knowledge and opportunity and choice. Renewing our charter schools for at least 5 years ensures that we can continue to provide them with exactly that. This is about opening doors and not closing them. And I invite you all to visit our schools and witness firsthand the passion, dedication, and heart that

084our educators, students, and parents bring every single day. Thank you. >> Thank you, Gracia Bozo. Head start. for particip particip. Thank you. Thank you. Uh that concludes the speakers from Did I miss someone? Okay. Yeah, Mry um was on the line. Is Mry still on the line? Webinar team, I'm looking at the chat. >> If we can't get her, >> let me just unmute. Okay, Mry just unmuted. Garcia, Missos. Gracias. person. Autonomous fundamental Thank you. All right, we'll hear now from Collegiate. I have three speakers in person. Um, the first one is Antoine McFersonen. Good evening. I am Antoine McFersonson, a founding scholar of Chicago Collegiia Charter School. I enrolled in 2013 as a founding fourth grader when the school was brand new. There was no graduates, no track record, no proof yet. What there

085was was a commitment to the Rosen families. Not that scholars will be prepared for college, a career. I mean that scholars will be prepared for college, a career in a lifetime journey and that the school will be accountable for delivering results. In 2022, I walked across stage as a senior and today I am a senior at the illustrious North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. A school I chose because of the a school I chose because of the college tour that Chicago Collegiia organized. That is what renewal looks like in real life. Long-term outcomes and not just short-term promises. Every graduating class has earned at least has earned 100% college acceptance with scholars averaging more than 10 acceptance each. Hundreds of millions of dollars in merit based financial aid. As of today, 100% of Chicago

086100% of the class of 2026 holds at least one college acceptance. Renewal is not just about performance, it's about trust. At the start of my senior year at ENT, I received my full-time offer as a human resource business partner at International Paper. On May 9th, 2026, I will walk across stage receiving my Bachelor of Science and Business Management with inerson support from many of Chicago Collegiia staff members. I don't need any luck, wishes, or concerns because I know I'm ready for whatever the world the world throws my way because of the promise collegiate made over 10 years ago. Thank you. >> Thank you, Erica Sides. >> Good evening. My name is Erica Sides. I started at Chicago Collegiate in 2014. And since attending, I met some of the most amazing people and in my opinion,

087some of the best teachers. They didn't just teach me basic academic skills. They help me grow as a person. They care and they truly pay attention. Chicago Collegiia has always been more than just a school to me. It's a family. The staff cares more than anybody you know. They supported me through middle school, high school. In 2022, I graduated with over 15 college acceptance letters. Even with all those acceptances, I was scared to leave home and choose a college. My school pushed me, encouraged me to follow my dreams, and tell me to go out and earn my degree. Because of that support, I enrolled at Tennessee State University. When I almost couldn't return due to a financial balance, Chicago collegiate everything they could to help me back. That's because our mission is to get students

088to and through college. My only hope is that more students get the opportunity to experience what I have and what I still get to experience today. Thank you. Thank you, Taiisha Robinson. >> Hi. This isn't on my script, but Erica and Antoine make me feel very, very old. Um, I'm going off script, but they Antoine and Erica uh were played a pivotal role in recruiting me all the way from Houston, Texas to serve as the proud principal of Chicago Collegiate. And and I just I'm in awe. But anywh who, I'm the principal here asking for a 5 to sevenyear renewal to continue to do the good work that we are doing in the Rosland community. At Chicago Collegiate, we have met or exceeded all but one of CPS standards across academics, finance, operation, and governance.

089And for that alone, we deserve at minimum a 5-year renewal. I believe in the vision and mission of Chicago Collegiate so much that I came all the way from Houston, Texas to do impact work in this fine city. For the first time in decades, the city of Chicago has experienced a significant decrease in murders. And I like to think that we have something to do with that. Over the years, Chicago Collegiate has graduated hundreds of scholars, whom of which have earned millions of dollars in merit scholarships and thousands of college acceptances. This is the kind of work that keeps kids in schools and off the street, helping to ensure our city is a safe place to live and thrive. Chicago Collegiate is truly an exceptional place. And frankly, we deserve a 5 to sevenyear renewal.

090The onus is upon you to grant us that renewal if you too believe in the impact work that schools do and what this does for our city. Thank you. >> Thank you. All right, we'll move to Chicago Math and Science. Our first speaker is virtual Faith Rodriguez. Good evening. My name is Faith Rodriguez and I've had the privilege of serving as a teacher at Chicago Math and Science Academy for the past 16 years. Over that time, I've witnessed firsthand how this school transforms lives, not only for our students, but for staff and the surrounding community as well. One of the greatest strengths of our school is the trust and autonomy given to the educators to innovate and shape meaningful programs. For me specifically, I was given the opportunity to create a health science pathway, a

091program that has grown into something truly special. Through this initiative, we not only introduced students to careers in healthcare, but also built lasting partnerships with local institutions, hospitals, universities, and clinics that have opened doors for underprivileged students who have not not might not otherwise have had these opportunities. The MSA has shaped me both as a teacher and a person. It's a place where passion is met with purpose, where collaboration thrives, and where students are encouraged to dream bigger. Our school doesn't just educate, it empowers. It reflects the best of what education should be, a genuine partnership between school, family, and community. That's why I strongly believe Chicago Math and Science Academyy's charter should be renewed for 10 years. Our students deserve the stability, innovation, and opportunity that this school continues to provide. We are not

092just preparing students for college and career. We're preparing them to become leaders and change makers in our city and beyond. Thank you. >> Thank you. Uh we have another virtual speaker, Jessica Huarebe. >> Good evening and thank you for the opportunity to speak. My name is Jessica Warby and I have been a teacher at Chicago Math and Science Academy for 20 years, first starting in Chicago as a CPS teacher. I remain committed to CMSA because I have seen every single day the difference this school makes not only for Rogers Park but for Chicago students in general. CMSA serves a diverse student population that reflects the city itself. Many of our students come to us with significant academic gaps, language barriers, or limited access to resources. What they find at CMSA is a school that believes

093in their potential and holds them to high expectations while providing the support needed to meet their needs. I have stayed for 20 years at CMSA because our school is built on consistency, rigor, and relationships. These are all things I was looking for as an educator in Chicago. CMSA is a second home for our students. We are a family. Our emphasis on college and career readiness, which I have directly been a part of for the past 20 years, prepares students not only to graduate, but to succeed beyond high school. Families choose CMSA because they trust us, and many have entrusted multiple children and multiple generations to our school over the years, and that trust is earned. We continually reflect on our practices, respond to feedback, and work to improve outcomes for our students. CMSA provides stability

094and safety. CMSA has been a constant in the city for graduating students who go on to college careers and who have become meaningful contributors to their communities. Renewing CMSA's charter for 10 years is an investment in a proven school community and in the students and families who continue to choose us. Thank you for your time and consideration. >> Thank you. Um Aisha Yousef also virtual. >> Good evening. My name is Aisha Ysef. I have been a college and career counselor at CMSA for the last 3 years. I am also a CMSA alumni from the class of 2014. I am speaking today to request a long-term renewal of 10 years for CMSA. I started at CMSA in 8th grade. I really thrive in high school academically and socially in ways that I had never imagined. My

095teachers were passionate about their work and inspired me to go into education. With immense support and recommendations from my teachers, I was accepted into the Golden Apple Scholars program and pursued becoming a teacher. I made long lasting relationships with people who are my best friends to this day and some of my former teachers from CMSA are now my friends and colleagues. Eventually, life led me to a new career in education as a college and career counselor. I consider it an honor to be back at my alma mater to serve the community that shaped me into the person that I am today. In my role as a college and career counselor, I mainly work with grades 9 to 11. The MSA prepares students beginning in 9th grade to start thinking about their postsecary plans, whether that's

096going to college, vocational school, or ending high school with a job in a field that interests them. Speaking with students and staff at other schools has made me realize that the work we do as college counselors looks much different at CMSA. We make ourselves familiar with students in all grades, not just as seniors. Since the college and career counseling department is led by alumni, my co-consel is also alumni. We are even more passionate about helping students gain the best high school experience and leave CMSA with a purpose so that they have a smoother transition out of high school. The MSA has been a part of the Rogers Park community for over 20 years. We celebrated our 20th anniversary last year. Our school is a positive part of the community that has changed the lives of

097many students and families. We've been the top charter school in the city for many years, and this is because of our dedicated teachers and staff who put everything into making sure our school culture makes students feel safe and helps them succeed. We currently have four staff members that are alumni, and many teachers have been here since the beginning. My former teacher and colleague, Miss WBY, says that TMSA is like a unicorn. There's no other place that exists like it, and I couldn't agree more. I think all of these things strongly reflect the community that CMSA has built, and that is why we should get a 10-year renewal. Thank you. >> Thank you. All right. Um, also virtual, Shahista Katun. >> Hi. Um, thank you for allowing me to speak. My name is Sha Katun and

098I've been a college and career counselor here at Chicago Math and Science Academy for the last six years. Most importantly, I'm also a proud CMSA alumni from the class of 2014. And I'm speaking today to request a long-term renewal of 10 years for CMSA. From the moment I walked these halls as a 15-year-old, CMSA became more than a school. It became a family and a second home. As a first generation student, I faced uncertainty about college and careers. NCMSA met that uncertainty with guidance, challenge, and resources that made opportunity feel possible. The teachers who motivated me then are now my friends and colleagues, a joyful reminder that those same caring adults remain a strong foundation on which CMSA is built. I was honored to return back to CMSA as an employee and give back to

099the community that gave so much to me. As a counselor who works closely with seniors, I ensure they are on track to graduate and to leave with a post-secondary plan that matches their interest and are passionate to pursue. Whether that is college, vocational school, the workforce, or the military, I'm especially proud to support the first generation students like I once was, helping them navigate applications, financial aid, and post-secondary planning. But our commitment is broader than that. Students from many backgrounds and identities discover strengths they didn't know they had, accessing programs that open doors, and building the confidence to pursue higher education and meaningful careers. The MSA's commitment to equity, academic rigor, and care for each students transforms lives. Not only for individual students, but for their families and our Rogers Park community. Living in this

100neighborhood my entire life, I witnessed daily the positive ripple effects CMSA creates stronger families, safer streets, and more hopeful futures. A 10-year renewal will give us the stability to continue investing in rigorous academics, inclusive supports, and long-reach partnerships that expand opportunity for our students and our community. Please grant CMSA the tenure renewal it needs to keep changing lives for our students, to sustain the resources that lifted me, to strengthen the staff who continue to show up for our young people, and to ensure that generations to come can call CMSA their second home like I do. Thank you for your time and consideration. >> Thank you. Uh Derell West, I'm sorry, Derell Wall. >> Uh thank you. Um, I'm here today as um I'm hearing a lot tonight about legacy and I have a unique perspective

101um on that [clears throat] because I am a alum, a current parent of a student and I currently work at CMSA. Um I have seen [clears throat] CMSA in and out. Uh my family been a part of the CMSA community since 2004. Um I wouldn't as a father put my child in a place where I didn't believe they could grow and thrive. Um, I also believe that it's proof in the pudding. I would CMSA never has given me uh a feeling that I had to get everything I need there and go somewhere else to thrive. I got everything I needed there, saw the world, came back to my community to pour into my community. What's the point of growing and then leaving everything, you know? They don't CMSA has never stopped me from uh becoming

102the man I am. I would say they held me. Um my grandma has a prayer that she says uh she thanks the Lord for giving her what she needs when she needs it, not when she wants it. Um, I would say CMSA is what I needed at the time and not what I wanted, but it's something right now that I want and need for not even just my kids, but uh, these students, these alumni, um, that lady right there, Miss Halls, is a person that gave me the tension when I was there. And even during my first interview out with her, um I was just so angry just remembering all the stuff and she was just asked me um how's your family? How you doing? And I could see in her eyes that she genuinely

103cared. I'm asking for 10 years not because that's what everybody's asking for. I feel like it's what we deserve. I'm not asking for more than that or less than that. CMSA deserves it. Thank you. Thank you, Samantha Stokes. Good, excuse [clears throat] me. Good evening, members of the board. My name is Samantha Stokes and I am the president of the parent teacher organization at Chicago Math and Science Academy. I am also the proud parent of a current junior at CMSA who began her journey there as a freshman. And I like to say she gets up at 5:00 a.m. every morning to make sure she makes it to school on time. When it came time to choose a high school, I didn't take that decision lightly. I am a parent who believes in doing my homework.

104I conducted thorough research into various schools across the city because I wanted to ensure that wherever my daughter went, the environment would align perfectly with her academic goals and her future aspirations. I chose CMSA for several specific reasons. First, CMSA's STEM focused curriculum and its various credentials were [clears throat] exactly what we were looking for. The school doesn't just offer classes. It offers a pathway to a career. Second, my daughter needed the right environment. My daughter is thriving because CMSA is a smaller school. In a smaller setting, she isn't just a number in a crowded hallway. She is an individual whose teachers know knows her strengths and pushes her to grow every single day. Finally, I chose CMSA because I have seen the proven results of the charter school model. Our family chose to stay

105within the charter, excuse me, charter system after a positive experience in a charter elementary school. In our experience in looking at the data, charters like CMSA consistently performs better than their local neighborhood counterparts, providing a level of rigor and safety that is essential for students act success. I also believe that all children learn differently. And though some may thrive in public school settings, they have larger class sizes and have children be independent with class with school classes, some may other some others may need a little more one-on-one attention. So having that option is something that should be available to all students. >> As PTO president, I speak with I speak with parents every day who have made the same choice I did. We are families who value the high standards, the accountability, and the community

106that CMSA provides. We are not just looking for a school. We are looking for a partner in our children's success. I'm a product of public schools. Miss Stokes, >> can you conclude, please? >> Okay. I'm sorry. CMSA is the second best charter school high school in Illinois because it works. It changes the lives for our um children. I urge you to grant the school a long-term charter renewal so that we can have the stability and excellence of our uh children deserves. Thank you. >> Thank you. Absolut. >> Good afternoon everyone. My name is Abby Goldpa. I am a senior and ambassador at CMSA. It is my pleasure to speak on behalf of my school Chicago Math and Science Academy. CMSA is not just a school. It's a community. Over the five years I've been there,

107I've seen the great things the teachers and students contribute to the school, and honestly, it's changed my life. Because CMSA is a small school, it allows students to be able to get and create that one-on-one connection with teachers and staff. This makes it easy for students to access any help they need. I'm not just another face in the crowd there. My teachers know me. They know how I learn. And when I need help, I can actually get it without jumping through a bunch of hoops. When I'm struggling with a concept in algebra or need guidance on a college application, I don't have to wait weeks for an appointment. I can walk down the hall and have a meaningful conversation with my counselors who know me and genuinely care about my success. That accessibility has been

108transformative for my education. There's also easier access to beneficial programs at our school. Whether it's STEM opportunities, tutoring, college prep, whatever we need, CMSA makes sure we can actually reach it, not just hear about it. I've had 5 years at CMSA to see what this school does for students like me. I've watched my classmates grow. I've built relationships with teachers who genuinely care. And I've had opportunities I might have not gotten anywhere else. That is why I'd like to respect respectfully request that CMSA get a 10-year renewal. >> This school has proven what it can do when it's given the chance to build real community and support students the right way. More students deserve to have what I've had. Thank you for your time and for considering what CMS means to all of us. >>

109Thank you. Our next speaker is virtual opa has not phoned in yet. >> Okay, we'll move on then. Uh Jaden Garcia. Hello. You guys hear me? Hello. My name is Jayen Garcia. I am an alumni of Chicago Mass Science Academy as we say CMSA. I graduated as a co graduate in 2021. I started in 2014. I went to three different schools before I went to CMSA. Every school was all the same. Books, teaching, books, teaching. CMSA gave me something I thought I would never saw or see. When you walk into class, first thing you do, sit down. Teacher greets you. Boom. Experiment. Forget about the learning. Let's open our minds as to what the world is giving us, as to what teachers are giving us. We at CMSA are asking for a tenure renewal. Why?

110Look what this school has done to many students before me, before all of my colleagues here. My cousin went there before I went to CMSA. CMSA was the talk of the day of the week. Oh, classes are great. Teachers are great. I wasn't experiencing that. Work was too easy for me. I wanted the challenge and I got it. And I got more than the challenge. I got the goal. I graduated. I went to college and I made the choices I made based off everyone helping me. Alumni work at this school. I used to work at the school. I was a coach. I was a 20 21 22 high school girls soccer team coach. We did great. Diversity >> is everywhere. Multiple languages, cultures, we have events at school, potlucks, uh, Hispanic Heritage Month, everything. We

111bring in dancers. We have yoga class. People you like exercise, join us. There's so many opportunities, not just for students, parents, other teachers, everyone. Chicago Math and Science Academy is not just a school. It's a community. It's a place for people to learn. >> It's a place for people to grow. I always thought that school was just something that you get over with and move on. I still go back. Why? Cuz I need their help. They help me with colleges. They help me make life choices. They help me get to places I never thought I'd get to. I am now a 20-year-old working in this world using the knowledge I got from all my teachers, all my colleagues, everyone. Thank you. >> Okay. Uh, Kia Tur. >> Good evening. My name is Kia Tur and

112I'm a senior and ambassador at CMSA. [clears throat] It is with my greatest pleasure to speak on behalf of my school, Chicago Math and Science Academy. I've often heard that high school is a place where you gain experience, discover your passions, and learn more about who you are becoming. I knew that growth would happen, but I didn't know what kind of environment would shape it. But I'm beyond grateful that it happened at my school. From the moment I became a part of this community, I was encouraged to step outside of my comfort zone. I saw how determined our teachers are to support their students and how motivated students are to succeed and support one another. I was also exposed to a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, talents, diversity that challenged me to grow, not only

113academically but personally. In this environment, I learned the importance of responsibility, determination, having a growth mindset, and the value of being involved in something worth so much to so many people, myself included. Over time, my appreciation for my school grew into a genuine comm commitment. I dedicated my time to school events, activities, initiatives because I believe in what this community represents. Being able to support students alongside teachers, especially as an upper classman, and help create a welcoming anda encouraging environment is something I take great pride in. Today, I come before you all to respectfully request a tenure renewal for my school. Our school is not just a school. It's a community that serves students of many different backgrounds, strengths, weaknesses, and goals. In this environment, students are given the support and space they need to

114grow, make mistakes, learn from them, explore their potential, and prepare for the future. A 10-year renewal would allow this impact to continue and expand, giving future students the same opportunities for growth, support, and self-discovery that I have experienced here. Thank you for your time and cons and for considering the continued future of a school that has shaped me and so many others. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mariana Martinez. >> Good afternoon, Superintendent King and Board of Education. My name is Mariana Martinez and I am an alum of the Chicago Math and Science Academy. I went to CMSA from 6th grade through 12th grade. So I was there my that was basically my entire secondary and middle school education and I can attest to the fact that CMSA played a pivotal role in transforming my academic

115and ultimately leading me to my professional success. Now, CMSA prepared me to be able to attend college, which at the time to me felt really unattainable. As mentioned previously, CMSA was at what I didn't know I needed at the time, and it transformed the trajectory of my life. I was able to obtain a scholarship to attend Northwestern University, and I recently graduated in June of 2025. Now that has led me to being able to uh work at Morning Star DBRS and now explore my passions in the financials industry. CMSA went above and beyond for me. It provided me the opportunity to engage in an extensive curriculum and grow through its robust extracurricular activities such as being part of NHS and also being a student ambassador. One of my favorite aspects of being a student at

116CMSA was the high caliber of educators it has. Teachers are deeply devoted to assisting students for them to excel both in and out of the classroom. I would see teachers stay after school, sometimes even until like 700 p.m. just because they wanted to get ahead on things for tomorrow or they wanted to help someone extra. I had a lot of teachers um help me in after hours be on Zoom calls at like 9:00 p.m. helping me with college applications. And that really changed the trajectory of my life. I was able to do so much more in my four years of college that I would have never imagined was possible when I was in high school. One of my personal favorite teachers was Miss Rodriguez who actually she spoke earlier right today. Um she was one

117of my favorite as she was super committed to CMSA for more than 15 years and during her time or my time there she supported us with access to a bunch of resources throughout the cities. Teachers like Miss Rodriguez who represent innovation and are committed to individual success and outcome are what differentiates CMSA. With that being said, I request for you to grant CMSA a 10-year renewal to continue its impact in the in the Rogers Park community. >> Thank you. All right, we'll hear now from uh Christopher. We have two virtual speakers. The first is Gabriella Deluof. >> Did I miss Did someone get Is there something? Did somebody get missed? Christopher House. Excellencia some Creativore Christopher. Please conclude. Thank you. Our next speaker, also virtual, Adalfo Moldinado. >> Good evening, members of the board. Every

118morning, my six-year-old son puts on his backpack, looks at me, and tells me he's excited to go to school, especially because he gets to dance in Mrs. Rover's class. After watching him struggle with separation anxiety before he started at Christopher House, that simple excitement means more to me that I can put into my words. My name is Adolf Maldonado and I am the period of the student at Christopher House. My son has been attending Christopher House for less than a year. But in that short time, I have seen meaningful growth in him, especially in his confidence and and social skills. He has gone from being anxious about being away from me to walking into school with a smile and a sense of belonging. At 6 years old, stability is not optional. It's essential. This is

119the stage where children learn whether school is a place to fear or a place to grow. Christopher House has become a place where my son feels safe, supported, and value. The school also supports my family in very practical ways, including provided free lunches, which truly makes a difference for my family. I am worried about what short-term contract means for schools like Christopher House. Constant renewal cycles require time, focus, and energy to be diverted towards paperwork and uncertainty. Uh, as a parent, it is difficult to accept that my son's education could ever be placed second to administrative demands. What concerns me even more is the possibility of non-renewal. The idea that Christopher House could cease to exist before my son even finishes middle school is deeply unsettling, and I do not want my child's education to

120feel temporary or fragile. I respectfully ask this board to renew Christopher House contract for at least 5 years. A longer contract would allow the school to focus fully on educating my son rather than repeatedly shifting focus towards renewal preparation. It would also give me peace of mind knowing that the school my child depends on will be there for him. I ask you to uh lead with compassion and grace. Please do not make my child's education something that expires every few years. Thank you for your time and consideration. >> Thank you. All right, we'll move now to intrinsic school. Um, the first speaker is Melissa Zakos. Good evening. My name is Melissa Zus and I'm the founder and CEO of Intrinsic. Thank you to the board for the opportunity to speak today. Thank you um and

121for the time and care you put into renewing to reviewing our renewal request. I'm here to ask for a seven-year renewal for intrinsic schools because I believe our results and the way we have achieved them demonstrate stability, quality, and long-term impact for students and families. First, consistency. Myself, our COO, and chief learning officer, have all been with the organization since we opened our doors in 2013. Our principal, Miss Trojan, has been here for 12 years. This continuity matters. It has allowed us to build strong systems, respond thoughtfully to challenges, and maintain a clear, consistent vision over time. We also pair this stability with strong financial health. Our board, many of whom bring strong, deep financial expertise, ensure that we are responsible, transparent, and prudent towards our funds. Second, I believe we have an extraordinary family

122engagement. 95% of our families attend studentled conferences three times a year. That level of participation is not accidental. It reflects trust and partnership. We also operate a parent ambassador program that allows us to hire parents on an hourly basis to support other families, strengthening our school community from within. I'm also proud to share that our principal, Michelle Troen, was recently named Illinois Charter School Principal of the Year, a reflection of this strong community centered leadership. She grew up in the neighborhood and our families trust her. Third, we offer unparalleled post-secondary opportunity. Through the generosity of a donor, we are able to offer approximately $ 1.5 million in scholarships to every senior class. Last year alone, we awarded 180 renewable scholarships with the average out-of-pocket cost for students under $3,000. >> 15 no loans. In practical

123terms, we have largely eliminated the financial barrier to college. For these reasons, stability, deep family partnership, and life-changing post-secondary outcomes, I believe a seven-year renewal is well merited. Thank you again for your consideration. >> Thank you, Lucy Weatherly. Good evening. Uh, I want to quickly thank everyone who's here this evening for just holding space for us to speak from the security guards and everyone sitting at these desks. Uh, my name is Lucy Wely. I stand here today as a proud member of the founding class of parents of intrinsic Belmont from 2013. Years ago, we took a leap of faith. We didn't choose a school with a long history. We chose a vision. We bet on something special. Today, I'm here to tell you that that bet paid off. And to ask you to secure the

124legacy with a full seven-year renewal. This school has done more than just educate my son. It has transformed him. It gave him a definition of success that he could touch, he could see and achieve. But the true magic of this school and what makes it unique in this city is that it didn't just transform the student, it transforms parents. Because of the culture and specifically because of the relentless encouragement of the post-secary team, my son graduated from Depal University following a master's from Northwestern University. But here is the part that might surprise you. So did I. Their belief in education is so contagious that it inspired me to take the leap and pour my own to into my own degree. The school's breaking cycles and building futures for generations of my family and family sitting

125to the left and right of me. This is what you call impact. To us, this building is not just an academic center. It's a safe place. It's a community hub where parents belong, where students are safe, and where neighbors are welcomed with open arms. You may have data on paper, but I am the proof in this room. A seven-year renewal isn't just a recommendation. It is a commitment to stability for families like mine who found their future grant intrinsic Belmont the seven-year renewal that they have earned so parents could continue to have choice in this city and students like mine could continue to dream. Thank you. >> Thank you. Um Janesh Janeshka Aroska, sorry. Um good evening and thank you for the opportunity to speak today. Uh my name is Janexa Arosco and I am

126a special education teacher at Intrinsic. I am also a proud class of 2017 Intrinsic alumni. I began my professional journey at Intrinsic as a classroom learning assistant. And because of this support, belief, and opportunities Intrinsic provided me, I went back to school, earned my certification, and returned as a licensed special education teacher. Intrinsic didn't just prepare me for a career. It invested in me as both a person and an educator. As a special education teacher, I see every day how deeply intrinsic is committed to serving all students. Our administrators and staff are incredibly supportive, especially when it comes to meeting the needs of diverse learners. Collaboration is the norm, not the exception, and I feel trusted, supported, and empowered to advocate for my students and their growth. What truly sets intrinsic apart is our partnership

127with families. Last year, I had the opportunity to graduate an advisory group that I supported for four years. During that time, I built strong, lasting relationships with students and their families. Relationships rooted in trust, communication, and shared commitment to student success. Our families are engaged, responsive, and deeply invested in their children's education, and that partnership makes a real difference in the lives of our students. I am here today to strongly support intrinsic request for a seven-year renewal. This renewal represents stability. stability for our students who thrive on consistencies, for families who rely on intrinsic as a trusted community, and for staff who are committed to this work for the long term. That stabil stability allows us to continue strengthening our systems, retaining dedicated educators, and ensuring every student receives the support they deserve. Intrinsic changed

128my life, and now I have the privilege of helping change the lives of my students. I respectfully ask for your support in granting a seven-year renewal. Thank you for your time and consideration. Thank you. Uh Nathan Buskerk. >> Hello [clears throat] and good afternoon. Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. My name is Nathan Buskerk and I'm a school social worker at Intrinsic. I began my journey here as an intern and because of the support, mentorship, and belief this school showed in me, I was able to join the team as a full-time social worker. Intrinsic invested in my growth early on and I am proud to now serve a community that prioritizes the well-being and success of its students. Collaboration is at the heart of our work. I partner closely with the social workers

129on my campus as well as the social work team at our downtown campus to ensure the continuity of care and the aligned supports for students and families across our network. I work handinhand with our restorative justice coordinator and our insistent principle of culture to provide restorative options for students focusing on relationship building, accountability, and healing rather than punitive responses. Together, we work to ensure students feel supported, respected, and connected to their school community. Intrinsic makes a meaningful investment in the mental well-being of all students by employing three full-time social workers on campus. Because the school has the flexibility to budget for school needs or student needs, we are able to provide proactive, responsive mental health supports rather than relying on limited or reactive services. This staffing allows us to build strong relationships with students, respond

130quickly when support is needed, and partner closely with our families. I am here today to strongly support intrinsic request for a 7-year renewal. This renewal provides stability for our students, family, and staff. ability that allows us to build long-term relationships, sustain restorative practices, and continue offering consistent highquality social emotional supports. Intrinsic believed in me as an intern, knowing full well I support the Detroit Lions and continues to support me as a professional. In return, I'm committed to supporting our students and families every day. I respectfully ask for your support in granting intrinsic a seven-year renewal. Thank you for your time. Thank you, Veronica Del Carman Zarita Lombid. >> [clears throat] >> and go CPS. The CPS Thank you. Arisili Karachio not here. Okay. Thank you. Uh, Jessica Landa. Junior Sequent. Junior High School. Thank you,

131Nancy Emnezz. Good evening and thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak. My name is Nancy Himenez and I am a parent ambassador, a pack lead and a proud Intrinsic mom of three young adults. Two alumni, one from the University of Chicago and one currently at the University of Chicago and one current senior at Intrinsic. When I say that Intrinsic helped change the trajectory of my children's lives, I mean that with the in the deepest way possible. Intrinsic didn't just educate my children. It created a space where they were allowed to grow to be challenged and truly thrive. A space built with intention where students are seen for who they are and supported in who they are becoming. As a parent, there is nothing more powerful than watching your children believe in their own

132potential. What makes intrinsic extraordinary is its community. The school that understands equity beyond the classroom. Equity for students and equity for parents and equity for families. Our voice matters here. Students voice matters here. We are not talked at. We are listened to. We we are included as partners in our children's education and that makes all the difference. Intrinsic also recognizes that supporting students means supporting families. The school builds relationships not just report cards. They invest in engagement, communication, and trust. We are not just dropping our children off at a building. We are walking them into a community that cares. Intrinsic prepares students for life beyond graduation. It opens doors to post-secary opportunities and helps shape confident young adults. I see that impact every day in my own children. We are more than a school. We

133are a family. For these reasons, I strongly support and ask for seven-year renewal so more families can experience the same changing impact that we have. Thank you. >> Thank you, Vanessa Gomez. Good evening. My name is Vanessa Gomez and I am a parent and community member from Chicago's Enosa neighborhood. I'm here to support intrinsic 7-year renewal and to share my experience as a parent whose family has benefited from intrinsic school Belmont campus. From my very first visit, it was clear that Intrinsic values family engagement. That commitment is felt the moment that you walk into the door as you are often being greeted by the principal with a smile. It is also reflected through events such as curriculum night which helps parent better understand academics expectations. I also want to highlight the special education team at

134Intrinsic. My husband and I have experienced firsthand that as parents supporting a child with moderate special needs in high school comes with an emotional toll. Sorry. We have had moments of fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty, especially when progress feels extremely slow and at times non-existent. During those moments, having a special education team that is compassionate, responsive, and collaborative has made a meaningful difference for my family. Beyond academics, Intrinsic has also supported my son's confidence and sense of belonging. He has had opportunities to participate in activities that help him feel included and valued by his peers. Moments like these matter >> because they remind us that success is not only measured by grades built by it's built by growth, confidence, and feeling supported within a school community. As a parent, knowing that my child is seen and

135supported has brought our family peace of mind. That trust does not happen overnight. It is built through consistent care, communication, and partnership. Intrinsic has demonstrated that commitment to my family and to our other parents in our community. >> That please conclude. >> Ultimately, I want the children in my community to have the same opportunity that my son has today right here close to home and in their neighborhoods. For these reasons, I proudly support Intrinsics 7-year renewal. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. >> Thank you, uh, Jonathan Miranda. >> All right. Good afternoon and thank you for the opportunity to speak today. Um, my name is Jonathan Miranda and I am the physical education teacher and the PE department chair at Intrinsic. Okay. So, I also uh am a proud graduate of a

136Chicago charter school. So, I understand firsthand the the impact that a strong missiondriven schools can have on students and families. Um I be I began my career at Intrinsic as a paraprofessional. Uh from day one, Intrinsic saw potential in me and invested in my growth. Today I have the privilege of serving as a PE teacher and a department chair and intrinsic is actively supporting me as I work towards my Illinois teacher c certification and continue developing as a teacher leader. That commitment alone uh continues growing educators from within as one of the reasons as to why intrinsic is such a special place to work. One of the things I value most about intrinsic is the culture of collaboration. I work closely with instructional coaches who help me refine my practice and push my thinking as

137an educator. I also regularly collaborate with our special education and ELLL teams to ensure that all students regardless of learning needs or language backgrounds are supported included and to be successful in PE. This level of teamwork ensures that students experience consistency, care, and high expectations across classrooms and programs. I am here today to strongly support Intrinsic's request for a seven-year renewal. This renewal provides critical stability for our students, families, and staff. It also allows students to learn in consistent, supportive environments, families to rely on a school they trust, and for educators like me to continue building strong programs, partnerships, and leadership capacity over time. intrinsic gave me the opportunity to grow from a par profofessional into a teacher leader and I am proud to give the same support and belief to our students each and

138every day. >> I respectfully ask for your support in granting intrinsic a seven-year renewal. Thank you for your time and for your consideration. >> Thank you Adriana Beayas. >> Good evening. My name is Adriana Masias. I am a proud graduate of intrinsic schools Belmont campus class of 2018. As a proud graduate of intrinsic schools, I am privileged to be for the past three years to be working at intrinsic as an enrollment specialist. My journey with intrinsic schools isn't just a career path. It is a testament to what this school can do for its community. I grew up in the Mosa community and like many in my neighborhood, I carry the hopes of my family with me. Thanks to the preparation and support I received from Intrinsic, I became a first generation college grad from Albine

139College. Because of the impact that Intrinsic gave me, it helped my family. Sorry, it helped my family's journey and I have seen 10 of my own family members follow in my footsteps, attend and graduate from intrinsic. We aren't isolated success stories. We are a family who was given the tools and the tools to succeed because this school existed in our backyard. Now, as an employee, I've seen the other side of that success story every day. I've seen the determination and dedication it takes to maintain the high standard that helps that help me reach my goal. Intrinsic has become a cornerstone in the Admos community. It has provided more than an education. It provides a pathway to social mobility for families who, like mine, needed the right environment to thrive. A seven-year renewal is more than

140just a timeline. It is a commitment to s sorry sust sustainability for our students and family. It ensures that the next generation of students have a proven place to learn and grow. On behalf of intrinsic staff, alumni, and family, I ask you support their renewal. Thank you so much for your time. >> Thank you. All right, we'll move on to the University of Chicago now. Uh thank you for your patience, those of you who are here. Uh the first speaker, Latana Hall, I'm sorry. Good evening. Thank you for the opportunity to speak. My name is Latana Hill and I am the director of family and community engagement at the University of Chicago Charter School. I am also a former parent of two Chicago Charter alum and I am here today to respectfully request a 5-year

141or longer renewal for our school. My connection to this school began first as a parent seeking opportunity, stability, and high expectations for my children. My son Cameron enrolled in 2005 when the Donahghue campus first opened. Like many Southside families, we took a leap of faith and we found a school that deeply believed in his potential, challenging him academically and supporting him socially. Cameron graduated prepared for success. And today at 28 years old, he continues to carry the values instilled in him there. Scholarship, leadership, excellence, and grit. And the confidence that he belongs in any room. My daughter Kalia began even earlier in preK, nurtured by educators who knew her, challenged her, and never lowered expectations. She is now a senior at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University and her success root was rooted in a

142strong academic foundation and exposure to opportunity. These are not isolated stories. They reflect what you Chicago Charter has done consistently for thousands of families. Today in my professional role, I see this impact daily. students growing academically and emotionally, families becoming true partners, and the school that understands education extends beyond the classroom and into the community. A short-term renewal will create uncertainty. A five-year or longer renewal provides stability, allowing us to retain families, educators, deepen our partnerships, and continuing to deliver what families rely on. I stand before you both as a school leader and a parent whose children's lives were changed by this institution. On behalf of our families, our students, our alumni, our staff, I respectfully ask you grant the University of Chicago a 5-year longer renewal. Thank you for your time. >> Thank you,

143Dashika Benton. >> Good evening. My name is Dashika Benton and I am a proud director at the University of Chicago Charter School or UCCCs. We are up for charter renewal this year and I am here to ask for your support for a five-year renewal or more so that we can continue building on our strong track record of success. When I think about the impact of our middle school, I think about Kenyon. He joined us this year from one of our feeder schools in the network. And at first, his transition into middle school was a daily struggle. He would often come in angry or sad, often expressing that he didn't like school. He frequently acted out and sometimes shut down in class. The counselor and I started daily check-ins with Kenyan. These conversations weren't always about

144academics. They were about him as a person, his interests, his strengths, his love for baseball, and areas where he could grow. Those check-ins made a difference. Today, Kenyan walks into the school happier. He initiates those check-ins just to let us know how he's doing. Um, and he truly feels a sense of belonging. His grades are now all A's and B's, and he is completing his work and participating in class with far fewer issues. Kenyan's story is a powerful example of how UCW middle school cares for the whole child to promote academic progress. Our middle school combines rigorous academics, comprehensive social emotional supports, and a strong collegegoing culture to ensure that every student >> has the opportunity to succeed, not just in middle school, but in high school, in college, and beyond. A 5-year charter renewal

145would allow us to continue this work, providing stability for families, and ensuring that every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Thank you for your leadership and for the honor of serving Chicago public school students, families, and communities. We are proud of our work and look forward to continuing this mission for years to come. >> Thank you, Dr. Emily Oros. >> Hello, my name is Dr. Emily Oros and I serve as the director of special education at the University of Chicago Charter School. We are here tonight to respectfully ask for your support of a 5-year charter renewal or longer so that we can continue building on the work and impact already happening in our schools. When I think about what UCS means to our students and families, I think of a student named Shawn. I

146first met Shawn when he was in second grade. He had had damage to his brain and he came to us with very limited verbal language. He struggled to communicate his needs and engage with peers and learning. But Shawn also had a family who believed in him and at UCCCS he had a team who did too. With intensive speech language supports, individualized instruction, and in caring, highly trained staff committed to the whole child, Shawn began to find his voice literally and figuratively. Today, Shawn is an eighth grader. He participates fully in class discussions, advocates for himself, and jokes with his peers like any other middle school child. He sounds and feels like a typical eighth grade student. His growth is not a miracle story. It's the result of consistent, highquality special education services, strong community partnerships,

147and a school culture built on belief, persistence, and expertise. And Shawn is not the exception. He represents the mission in action across our campuses. Our work is rooted in investing in excellent educators, providing comprehensive academic and social emotional supports, and ensuring stabilities for families who trust us with their children year after year. >> You have 30 seconds remaining. A 5-year renewal or longer would allow us to continue the stability so students like Shawn and thousands who will follow him can thrive in our community-based schools without disruption. Thank you for your leadership and for the opportunity to continue serving Chicago's students and families. >> Thank you, Chamilleia Woods. >> Good evening. My name is Shamalia Woods and I am the proud director of UCCCS Donahue University of Chicago Charter School. We are up for charter renewal

148this year and I am here to ask you and claim a 5-year renewal so that we could continue to remain focused on what we do best, educating students and send them out to the world to be great citizens. When I think about the impact that we made in the greater Bronzeville area, I think about various things. I first think about why I became a leader and the challenges I experienced to get here. Becoming a principal at Donnahu was an answer prayer that helps me not only to live out a legacy but also my purpose. As a principal, I am able to not only impact the school community but the community at large. At Danahghue, we have various programs and partnerships that we have secured that has made an impact significantly on our students seal as

149well as academics. Because of these programs, we have not only impacted our students, but we impact our community members and our families. DU have secure partners with together Chicago, Adah S. McKinley, a touch of hoess, new root, and many other Chicago partners that we use to ensure that we are dealing with every inch of seal for our students. These programs have been instrumental in building our community's seal. We also have curated events called Black Dance Rock where we bring dads not only from our community, but the community from around the city to empower our parents to be the best parents that they could be. Because of these wraparound services, we have been able to provide for students and families. Several students have graduated from our check-in and checkout programs. We've seen an increase in our

150student achievement on IR. Our lovely diverse learners are and our gened students have have um increased their ELA proficiency from 14.2% to 43%. Our math from 12.4% to 25.6%. So, please >> times up please conclude. Thank you for your consideration today and keep the elf on the shelf. >> Okay, thank you. Uh Nea Grover. >> Good afternoon. My name is Naima Grover. I am a longtime parent in the University of Chicago Charter School Network and a a parent representative on the UCCCs board of directors. UCCCS is up for a charter renewal this year, and I am here to ask for your support for a 5-year or longer renewal so the network will continue building on his strong track record of success. When I think about UCCCs's impact, I think about my oldest son, Joshua Lee.

151He began his education at North Kenwood Oakland, and later attended UC uh Woodlon. As a middle school student, he struggled academically and was at risk of falling behind. Under the leadership of principal uh Donald Gordon, who was also the campus director, the school made it clear that students with 504 plans and IEPs would not be overlooked. With that leadership, my son received an IEP targeted academic support and consistent follow-through. By 8th grade, he had moved from the academic risk to ranking near top of his class. Uh he went on to graduate with honors and has now successfully completed his first semester at Northern Illinois University in an electrical engineering technology program. My son's story is not an exception. It reflects that UCCCs consistently delivers. Across campuses, students benefit from strong instruction, comprehensive supports, and a

152collegegoing culture that begins early and continues beyond graduation. Families like mine remain in the UCCCs for years because results are real, >> measurable, and sustained. A five-year or longer charter renewal provides stability. It allows UCCCs to continue serving Southside students and families with consistency, long-term planning, and deep community investment. By approving this renewal, you are supporting schools that educate students from early childhood through graduation and beyond. Thank you for your leadership and for your commitment to Chicago public school students and families. >> Thank you. Um our next two speakers are virtual. The first one is Serrilla Bordalone. >> Good evening. My name is Sarella Bordal. I'm a parent and FTCO community engagement chair at NKO of UCCCS. We are up for charter renewal this year and I'd like to ask for your support in obtaining

153a five-year or longer renewal. I've had two scholars at NKO UCCCs and chose the school because my children are advanced, one gifted and the other currently testing. I was told through many sources, principles, friends, and family that it was a great school, especially considering their college 4 curriculum. My son struggles with regulating his emotions and focus and is matched by his acade academic excellence. Through great teamwork with his inschool social worker, teachers and other staff, we have been able to help him develop social emotional skills while continuing to excel academically. Though faced with challenges, they helped us find solutions that not only helped him, but the other students around him. It wasn't until sending Jean to a gifted school that we fully realized the impact that the UCCCs has had on his daily life. He

154focused better and overall environment allowed him to express himself and excel in ways he now finds challenging. Often we refer to him to use the tools given to him at UCCCs and it helps. We are proud of their social emotional support systems and my son is only one of the many that it helps. UCCCS not only makes a difference in the lives of our scholars but in their families and community as well. Focusing on the whole person for academic success. >> Seconds remaining. >> Humbly asking for a fiveyear or longer charter renewal. I not only on behalf of my family but others as well ask that UCCCs is allowed to continue positively supporting scholars, families and community with assurance and stability. Thank you for your time, patience, and the environment to continue to let our

155children grow. >> Thank you. Also, virtual Brandon Miller. >> My name is Brandon Miller. I'm the parent of a preschooler that attends the NKO campus at the University of Chicago Charter School. My wife and I were made aware that the school was up for renewal and I'm honored to speak on behalf of NKO. I'm here to speak for your support for a 5-year renewal. We refer to UCCCs by my wife's childhood friend, Latoya Lewis. NKO is highly known for the success of the kids that has attended this school. Everywhere me and my wife go and speak on this school, there's always someone that speaks highly of UCCCs. We have only heard nothing but great things about the UCCCs ecosystem. These type of stories give us great hope for our child's future. Our first experience with

156staff at ENKO has been nothing short of great. The first time we were trying to get our son uh in school, he was too young, but Miss Hughes in the front office of NKO made sure we were reminded to enter him in the lottery a year later. Miss Hughes and Miss Jackson went the extra mile to make sure that we knew when the lottery was. They went as far as making a reminder in their calendars to give us a call to remind us. The care that was shown by someone who had no idea who we were only further the influence our decision to want to push for our son to attend. Once we were accepted, Miss Jackson celebrated with us like we have been knowing each other for years. The energy that that front office

157team displayed to me and my family was only multiplied by the entire staff at NKO. We feel safe with our son in the hands of the UCCCs staff. So far, NKO has been a very valuable asset to the values that my wife and I have been teaching our son. He has continued in his education, and he only enjoy and he really enjoys going to school. I'm sure that our story is echoed through the entire UCCCs system. I think requesting a 5-year renewal is just the start. UCCs has been around for 27 years. I would love for it to be around for 32 years, 37 years, 42 years. Well, you get the pitch, I hope. Thank you for hearing me out. >> Thank you. And that concludes the speakers from the University of Chicago. Thank you.

158>> Uh it also concludes the entire list of speakers and this hearing. So I thank everyone who's left for your patience and participation. And this hearing is now adjourned.