Parents, Teachers Demand State Investigate ‘Failing’ Charter Operators After ChiArts Turmoil

HUMBOLDT PARK — Chicago High School for the Arts parents and staff are seeking answers after its board decided not to renew its contract with Chicago Public Schools — while asking the state to prevent its potential closure.

ChiArts parents and educators are joining counterparts at other charter schools contracted with CPS as they call for further clarity on how such schools are allowed to close.

Last week, the ChiArts school board voted not to renew its CPS contract, citing financial woes — and blindsiding parents, teachers and students. The vote puts ChiArts’ future in limbo, as it could now close.

ChiArts is not the only CPS-contracted charter school to face issues this year: The Chicago Board of Education voted to save five out of seven Acero charter schools earlier this year when Ac