Chicago

Chicago Students Skip School to Protest

Thousands of Chicago students plan to skip school Tuesday in an attempt to convince lawmakers to improve school funding. The students and their families say they are frustrated that students who live in richer communities have better classrooms and equipment. Chicago Public Schools spent $11,300 per student last year - while New Trier High School, located in a wealthy area, spent $17,500 a student.

Submitted by gabbyp08 on Wed, 01/23/2008 - 19:53

the problem:

Founded by Gabrielle Pickens, a Senior at Walter Payton College Preparatory High in Chicago Illinois, the Payton Grizzlies Dance Troupe, through theatrical dance & performances, raise money and such, to be donated to the Chicago Police Departments 'Victims Unit'. In addition, to already having been granted a $2,500.00, the dance group is now planning and executing a Chicago Public School (CPS) City-wide Dance Competition. All monies raised will be donated to the Victims Unit. Also, the Dance Team emphasizes youth artistic development, and therefore makes every effort to perform at elementary schools around the city to encourage school children to reach their dreams in the Arts.

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Submitted by BRICK Winner on Sat, 08/26/2006 - 21:31

the problem:

Alex Poeter founded the Brighton Park Neighborhood Council in Chicago, IL. An East German immigrant who was raised under an oppressive dictatorship, Alex leads a grassroots organization that mobilized local residents to close down 27 drug houses, secure $40 million in local school improvements, and improve the local economy through $65 million in Community Reinvestment Act funds. Alex won a BRICK Award in 2000.

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Submitted by BRICK Winner on Sat, 08/26/2006 - 20:57

the problem:

Matthew McDermott served as a Policy Specialist for the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless (CCH), Chicago, IL. The CCH works to expand affordable housing, protect human rights, and increase the political power of homeless people. Mattâ€™s efforts lead to the preservation of 1,000 units, the creation of 380 single room housing units with social services on site, and the adoption of a policy for a 20% affordable housing set aside in all city housing expenditures. He won a BRICK Award in 1998.

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