Our Core Purpose

Chicago International Charter School (CICS) operates a portfolio of 13 tuition-free public charter schools that offer academically rigorous, community-based school environments where every scholar feels they belong. 

We are profoundly committed to ensuring that our schools serve as models of diversity, equity and inclusion. Not only is it the right thing to do – it’s also the most effective way to advance racial and social justice. Because we live, learn and work in a diverse city and a diverse world, we value and expect cross-cultural competence and the continuous self-reflection and self-awareness it demands. Through our policies, practices and attitudes, we cultivate a culture that prepares staff and students to respect, embrace and champion diversity, equity and inclusion within our schools and beyond them.

CICS' core values are EQUITY, INNOVATION and EXCELLENCE. We believe that students deserve an excellent education and that will be achieved when all students have access to high-quality, innovative learning models that prepare them for success in college and life. 

We are profoundly committed to ensuring that our schools serve as models of diversity, equity and inclusion. Not only is it the right thing to do – it’s also the most effective way to advance racial and social justice. Because we live, learn and work in a diverse city and a diverse world, we value and expect cross-cultural competence and the continuous self-reflection and self-awareness it demands. Through our policies, practices, and attitudes, we cultivate a culture that prepares staff and students to respect, embrace, and champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within our schools and beyond them.