For a decade, Illinois has been experimenting with a new approach to public education: privately managed charter schools. Now, with two Chicago champions of the charters—President Barack Obama and education secretary Arne Duncan—at the helm in Washington, these reform-minded schools may play a key role in solving the country’s scholastic woes. Here is how they work, and a look at some of the best charter schools in the area
The sixties radical stayed quiet during last year’s presidential campaign, but as a prominent education professor, he’s speaking out now about his prescription for fixing the public schools
The magazine’s latest Chicagoans of the Year led a Ritz crowd in a joyful celebration of worthy acts
In April’s letters: divergent opinions on Michelle Obama and some second opinions on our health care coverage
Your nominations in hand, we canvassed the Chicago area for our most earth-friendly individuals. Meet our 2009 class of honorees, six people who are more than green—they’re good.
April 2009: Erika Dufour, Dennis Rodkin, Debra Pickett, Jennifer Tanaka, Cassie Walker, Nora O’Donnell
We recently stopped by a gathering of Chicago’s Young Republicans, who, between bites of meatballs and sips of wine, dished on Obama, their party’s future, and more
Forget Blago—Illinois has bigger problems.
Would loosening Illinois eavesdropping laws curb political corruption?
Our 2009 survey of salaries around the city and beyond
