Study: Illinois’ charter schools sending more kids to college

Posted on March 4, 2017
school bus
Nearly three-fourths of students at charter schools in Illinois go on to college. (Photo courtesy Pixabay)

By Illinois Radio Network

SPRINGFIELD – A new study shows Illinois’ charter schools are sending a higher percentage of students to college than traditional public schools.

The report about charter school successes, released late last month, shows just how many more charter school students are moving on to college.

Nearly three-fourths of students at charter schools in Illinois go on to college. That’s 5 percent higher than the statewide average, and 20 percent higher than Chicago Public Schools.

Andrew Broy with the Illinois Network of Charter Schools said it’s not just the number of kids getting into college.

“What we thought 20 years ago when the first charter opened, that great schools can change lives, is now being proven true,” Broy said. “It’s really great news.”

Broy hopes the news is enough to change some minds about charter schools.

“Behind these statistics are thousands of Illinois families,” Broy explained. “And when you view this through their eyes, you realize how compelling it is.”

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