The Lens

Going into the new school year, Chicago Public Schools dramatically simplified school choice in the city by creating a unified high school enrollment system. Rather than submitting multiple applications to multiple district-run choice programs and charter schools with multiple deadlines and acceptance timelines, families were able to rank their preferred public school options in one place and await an offer from a school that had space for their child and aligned with their preferences.

Studies from other cities, like Denver, have shown that unified enrollment systems like Chicago's can reduce “grey markets” for schooling, which favor families who understand how to navigate bureaucracy or have the time to apply to multiple schools. They can also help shine a light on the areas of a city where families simply need access to better schools...