Board packet asks to amend YCCS charter agreement to relocate Chatham campus and allow conditional closure of Aspira Pentoha

Chicago Public Schools options staff asked the board to authorize two amendments to the Youth Connection Charter Schools (YCCS) charter agreement ahead of the April 23 board meeting: (1) relocate the Chatham Academy campus from 9035 S. Langley to 4017 S. Drexel so the campus can continue operations after a June 2026 lease expiration at the current site, and (2) provide conditional, mutual consent for a potential Aspira Pentoha self-closure if the YCCS board votes to close by April 30, 2026 and meets a set of transition stipulations.

Relocation details: Options staff said the Drexel site offers larger, more modern classroom configurations and a gymnasium; YCCS plans outreach (town halls, bus cards, targeted van services for students with unsafe transit options) and has engaged families and local leaders. Chatham expects about 45 students to transition to the new site and guaranteed seats at other YCCS campuses for families preferring not to move.

Aspira Pentoha contingency: The recommendation would allow CPS to provide mutual consent for a self-closure to ensure transparent communications and student transition planning provided YCCS meets timelines and written transition plans (student-seat guarantees; family communication plans). Options staff described the change as preemptive: if YCCS does not vote to close and if stipulations are unmet, the consent would be rescinded and the campus required to operate through 2026-27.

Implications and next steps: Staff said there are no direct CPS financial implications for either action; the board will consider the amendments at the April 23 meeting. Speakers at the public-comment period urged expedited hiring for displaced Aspira staff and meaningful community notice for any closure decision.

Sources: Presentation by Molly Mlechek and Dr. Bridget Swinson at the April 8, 2026 Agenda Review Committee meeting; public comments from Aspira and YCCS staff and parents.