Reimagine Chicago's education system

The church must be the hands and feet of Christ in our children's schools.

Feb 09, 2024

In the heart of Chicago, where the winds of change continuously reshape the landscape of our communities, a pressing question emerges from the shadows of our city's bustling streets and quiet neighborhoods: "What is the best way to deploy public resources for the benefit of the students and families in our city?" This query, simple yet profound, invites us to reexamine our approach to education and to envision a future where every student's success is not just a possibility but a promise we are committed to keeping.

Recent discussions around the sunsetting of the Invest in Kids scholarship program and the Chicago Board of Education's movement away from a "school choice" system have ignited debates and concerns across the city. Families worry about the future of selective enrollment programs and charter schools, while educators and policymakers grapple with the complexities of ensuring equitable access to quality education for all children. Amidst this backdrop, a new pathway beckons, one that transcends the dichotomy of "school choice vs. traditional neighborhood schools" and beckons the church to step into a more active role within the education ecosystem of Chicago.

The predicament facing our city's education system is not just a matter of policy or funding; it is a reflection of our collective moral compass, our values, and our vision for the future of our children. As members of the faith community, we are called to be stewards of hope and agents of change, embodying the principles of empathy, equity, and empowerment in every sphere of society, including education. The church, with its rich tapestry of resources, networks, and spiritual guidance, is uniquely positioned to be a cornerstone in the reimagining of educational opportunities for our city's youth.

Imagine a Chicago where public resources are deployed not merely as financial allocations but as investments in the holistic development of each student. A city where the success of our children is supported by a robust force of professional teachers, the innovative spirit of educational entrepreneurs, and the unwavering support and engagement of families and communities, including, and especially, the church. This vision is not a distant dream but a feasible reality, rooted in the collaborative effort of every stakeholder in the educational landscape.

The challenges are many, but so are the possibilities. In neighborhoods across Chicago, families are feeling the impact of policy changes firsthand, the church can provide support, resources, and advocacy. Similarly, as the city contemplates a shift toward strengthening neighborhood schools, the faith community can play a pivotal role in transforming these institutions into vibrant centers of learning and growth, reflective of the needs and aspirations of their communities.

To embark on this journey, we must first acknowledge the inherent value and potential of every student, recognizing that equity in education is not just about access but about ensuring that every child has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. We must advocate for policies that reflect this understanding and work tirelessly to dismantle the barriers that impede our children's path to success.

Moreover, the church must leverage its influence, resources, and networks to foster partnerships that enhance the educational experience for students. From mentoring programs and after-school tutoring to launching new schools and developing creative ways to at-home and community-based learning, the church can be a catalyst for innovative solutions that address the diverse needs of our students.

As we move forward, let us be guided by a spirit of collaboration and empathy. But above all, we must be strong in our unwavering commitment to provide a high-quality education for every child in our Chicago. Let this moment in our city's history be remembered not for the challenges we faced but for the unity and resolve with which we addressed them. Let us, as a community of faith, lead the charge in redefining education in Chicago, ensuring that every child is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and moral compass to navigate the complexities of the world and to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

I urge that we each begin to engage with the families, educators, and community members within our congregation to collectively imagine fresh approaches to education…dare to dream. Sometimes, the vision will be more traditional, becoming involved with our local schools, to offer our support through volunteering, mentoring, or partnering with educational initiatives. And in other contexts, the dream will be launching schools, supporting homeschooling, and building access to the existing network of quality school options. And there are still solutions that have yet to be dreamed.

In every case, let us be the hands and feet of Christ in our education system. Together, we can ensure that every student in Chicago has the opportunity to succeed and to flourish, reflecting the love and hope that lies at the heart of our faith. This is not just an opportunity; it is our responsibility. Let’s rise to the occasion with courage, faith, and action.

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The Round Up

Here are the stories that caught our eyes this week and what they mean for the weeks ahead.

Rev. Michael Pfleger joins calls to cancel the DNC in Chicago

Rev. Michael Pfleger wants Chicago to back out of hosting the Democratic National Convention unless the city gets more federal funding to combat homelessness.

The St. Sabina pastor and activist is the second high-profile leader in recent weeks to suggest Chicago should pass on its DNC obligations if more federal resources aren't provided to address the city's housing crisis.

Pfleger plans to bring these demands to the doors of the Union League Club next week, when DNC 2024 Host Committee leader Christy George will be speaking.

The Illinois State Board of Education finalized a literacy plan. What’s next?

Two years after Illinois literacy advocates started pushing the state to adopt research-backed reading curriculum, the Illinois State Board of Education finalized a comprehensive literacy plan last month.

Now, advocates are pushing for more funding to schools and support for educators to implement the plan.

The literacy plan grew out of an effort by Illinois advocates, who pushed lawmakers in 2022 to pass The Right to Read Act. The bill would have required schools to use evidence-based reading strategies, such as phonics, rather than the now-debunked “balanced literacy” approach, which is based on the idea that reading is a natural process. But that bill hit a wall during negotiations as advocates worked to address concerns about the needs of English language learners.

Is Chicago sticking with ShotSpotter? City won’t say what’s next for controversial technology

The city’s contract for ShotSpotter, a controversial gunshot detection service, is winding down — and officials still won’t say what they plan to do with it next.

ShotSpotter, a privately owned network of sensors that capture the sound of gunshots, has been credited by police for getting them to crime scenes faster and saving lives. The technology has also been critiqued in multiple studies and has drawn the ire of activists and community members who allege its faulty systems encourage over-policing.

The city’s contract with ShotSpotter, first signed in 2018, runs through Feb. 16, public records show. After multiple renewals, the original contract can no longer be extended. City officials won’t say what they intend to do next with ShotSpotter.