Franchising Schools

by Alexander Russo – Education Week:

We’re all already familiar with the idea of networks of charter schools (like KIPP) and small groups of private schools (Cristo Rey), but what about franchising magnet schools as well?

That’s the idea that Chicago schools chief Arne Duncan is apparently floating, according to this Catalyst Magazine article, which would ‘franchise’ some of the city’s most popular selective enrollment schools in order to create more seats for high-achieving kids. With varying degrees of success, Chicago already clones charter schools as a way to get around the charter cap.