IL-FPS director Cassie Creswell spoke at the Illinois State Board of Education meeting today in opposition to the opening of a new charter high school on the Northwest Side of Chicago even though there is currently a moratorium on opening new charters in Chicago. This school would be run by Concept Schools' Horizon Science Academy - Belmont, which has an existing elementary school in Chicago. It was approved as part of the renewal of HSA - Belmont's charter by ISBE in December. 

In this issue:

1. Our newest campaign: the Right to Play Every Day!
2. Keep pressure on the College Board to stop illegal data sales
3. Graduated income tax on the ballot in November

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In this issue: 

1. College Board’s data sales — Ask your legislators for a subject matter hearing; 
2. FTC looking at changing privacy rules for schools — Submit comments;
3. President Cullerton retiring — One of the biggest obstacles in the ongoing fight for an elected board for Chicago is stepping down in January; 
4. Quick links — What’s in the new contract for Chicago teachers; ISBE budget hearing & board meeting; delay on effective date for new law on IEP paperwork.

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You all helped make a valiant attempt to move the charter commission bill for a veto override, but unfortunately the fix seemed to be in to keep it from getting through.

There was an override of the Governor’s veto on HB5175, the charter commission bill, yesterday in the House, and now it’s time to get it through in the Senate!

RYHA has been busy this fall hosting Mayoral candidate meet and greets with We Will, registering people to vote, and connecting parents by legislative district so they can advocate together.  

Can't make it to our lobby day in Springfield on May 9? Here are three quick actions you can take from anywhere to support better public ed policy in Illinois!