The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS) extends its congratulations to Lori Lightfoot, who was inaugurated today as Chicago’s new mayor. INCS is eager to partner with Mayor Lightfoot in deepening support for the city’s public schools, bridging the economic gap among neighborhoods, and supporting other initiatives to lift up families across our great city. We agree with Mayor Lightfoot that families across the city, particularly on the South and West sides, deserve opportunities and access to quality education. For more than 15 years, INCS has committed itself to working with our member schools to create great charter public schools so that all children—regardless of zip code, ethnicity, family income or background—can excel academically, receive the preparation needed to succeed in college, and become thoughtful, engaged, active contributors in society.