Parents fed up with failing schools and political distractions rallied together Saturday, June 16 to call on their neighbors to join a citywide movement that demands great schools. The parent-led “Voice Your Choice for Great Schools Rally” kicked off a series of community initiatives that aim to engage community members in a citywide effort to give every child access to a quality school.

In the coming months, parents will work with their friends, neighborhoods and leaders to find solutions for the education crisis in their communities, including Englewood, Austin, Humboldt Park, Lawndale, and Roseland. They will hold town hall meetings, house parties and roundtable discussions to explore options and rally around quality school solutions.

Earlier this year, about 200 parents from across the city gathered to discuss what they want from public schools, identifying specific criteria, dubbed the Five Fundamentals of Every Great School. The criteria include strong academic programs, high expectations and respect for every student, meaningful testing, quality instruction and supported teachers, and effective community involvement.

“We are frustrated that we have to leave our neighborhoods for a decent school.” said Daniela Flores, a community leader and parent from Portage Park. “Tell your family, friends, and neighbors there is hope if we work together. Join us. Demand the schools your children deserve.” Parents and students who spoke at the rally called on their peers, city officials and community leaders to join the effort to address and ultimately solve the crisis, by making highly effective schools available to substantially more students.

“We’ve gone from 27 parents connecting at a community meeting in March to more than 1,000 individuals and 100 organizations,” said Chris Butler, advocacy and outreach director of New Schools for Chicago. For more information or to join the movement, go to www.newschoolsnow.org/voice. Or call, 773-472-4665.