Portfolio Schools Analysis and Management

The Fund supported the work of two prominent strategy consulting firms to provide critical support for CPS.  One project, led by The Parthenon Group, conducted analysis to determine which school models and programs – from International Baccalaureate (IB) to Military, from Magnet to Charter – were effective in improving student outcomes and at what cost.  The resulting model, which was developed and shared with District leadership, allows Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to analyze outcomes and costs using a wide-range of inputs. The Fund supported the Parthenon effort with a financial investment, in addition to facilitating a series of meetings to ensure the produced model met District leadership needs and had a viable future.  With District leadership transitions, our staff also re-introduced the model to new leaders as they assumed their roles at CPS. The second project, led by McKinsey & Company, provided support in the development of an Educational Facilities Master Plan, as required by the Chicago Educational Facilities Task Force, and an Office of Strategic Management led by a Chief Transformation Officer.  The six-month engagement provided essential analytics and project management support as CPS worked to create a system of schools that would prepare every student to succeed in college and career. This project also included the development of stakeholder outreach and engagement plan, led by Global Strategy Group, a communication and market research firm.

Impact

• Completed analysis of school-based programs, yielding framework for future thinking and decision making.
• Hiring of a Chief Transformation Officer and establishment of the Office of Strategic Management.
• Publication of an Educational Facilities Master Plan in September 2013