Board conditions EPIC Academy renewal, orders transition plan and $1.4M in FY26 wind‑down funding

The Chicago Board of Education on Nov. 4 approved an amended renewal for EPIC Academy Charter High School that includes a required transition plan, financial monitoring provisions and an allocation of additional FY26 funds to support wind‑down operations.

Under the adopted amendment, the chief portfolio officer in the Office of Portfolio Management must prepare a transition plan in consultation with EPIC students, families and staff. The plan must "provide opportunities to maximize stability and continuity for EPIC families and qualified staff," including offering enrollment options at district‑run receiving schools and identifying open CPS positions for which EPIC staff may be eligible. The amendment also requires the chief portfolio officer to report to the board on transition implementation, EPIC student enrollment, staff retention and support activities no later than December 2025.

The board read the unfinished business item describing that Epic will voluntarily return its charter and cease operations effective July 1, 2026, and that the amendment includes an allocation of an additional $1,400,000 in FY26 to ensure successful wind‑down and completion of the academic year. The amendment also directs that Epic must return any unspent public funds or public‑purchased assets and requires the district to seek recovery of unused funds or assets when appropriate.

During debate, members raised concerns about principal discretion and the limits of district authority under collective bargaining agreements. Member Boyle moved to divide the question so the board could separately vote on transition planning and the financial allocation; that motion failed. Members clarified that the adopted language offers "opportunities" for employment and enrollment and does not guarantee hires; several board members emphasized that principals retain hiring discretion consistent with district procedures. Legal review was referenced during debate; members also called for a short recess to consult counsel before final votes.

After amendments (including striking the words "high performing and corresponding" to avoid implying rankings of receiving schools), the board adopted the amended Epic renewal (board report 25‑0424‑EX7 as amended) by roll call (20 ayes, 0 nays, 0 abstentions). The motion includes monitoring requirements for FY26 funds and a reporting requirement to the board by December 2025.

Public commenters and members urged that families and staff be engaged in the process. The motion adopted procedural steps and reporting timelines; it does not guarantee particular hiring outcomes or specific receiving schools, which the amendment frames as options to be considered and reported back to the board.