ACE Tech Charter High Grads Receive More Than $1.3M in Scholarships

2011's graduating class had highest cumulative GPA is school's history

CHICAGO, June 30, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Architecture, Construction, and Engineering Technical Charter High School (ACE Tech), named for its technical curriculum, saw one of its most successful senior classes graduate this spring. The class of 2011 had the highest cumulative grade point average of any graduating class in the school's history, and college-goers together received more than $1.3 million in scholarship money. There were 106 graduates this year, and families looking for educational options will be happy to know that there are 50 seats open for freshman students when classes begin again in the fall.

"We're proud to prepare our students for life after school in such a unique way," said Geri Harston, Executive Director of ACE Tech. "We saw 88 percent of our senior class plan to go on to a 4-year university, but a significant number of the other students have entered apprenticeship programs and plan to enter the Chicago workforce immediately. "

This year, 92 percent of the senior class received diplomas, the highest number the school has ever seen. According to Chicago Public School's Office of New Schools, ACE Tech's four-year graduation rate of 78.7 percent is more than 20 percent higher than the comparison school average rate. ACE Tech students perform better on standardized tests and have an attendance rate more than 25 percent higher than the comparison school rate. During their studies, students are encouraged to take internships with several partner organizations, such as The University of Chicago, the DePaul University Leading Community Change Program, Perkins + Will, F.H. Paschen, and others.

"A success like this is a success for all students," said Andrew Broy, President of the Illinois Network of Charter Schools. "ACE Tech's innovative curriculum prepares students for life outside the classroom in a unique way. I congratulate ACE Tech on this job well done."

The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS) is dedicated to improving the quality of public education by promoting and invigorating the charter school concept. The voice of the state's charter schools, INCS advocates for legislation to strengthen charter schools, educates the public about the value of charter schools, and supports the dissemination of best practices throughout the system.

SOURCE Illinois Network of Charter Schools