History

The Inner-City Teaching Corps (ICTC) was founded in 1991 to recruit college graduates to volunteer as teachers in Chicago’s high-need classrooms. Born of the leadership of Mr. Patrick G. Ryan, Jr., a former Chicago school teacher, ICTC developed the Alternative Teacher Certification Program in 1998—the first urban program of its kind in Illinois—in partnership with the Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy.  

In 1996, ICTC leadership founded 21st Century Urban Schools (21st Century) to research and develop effective academic and social programs for children attending low-income Chicago public schools. In response to existing education needs of Chicago’s West Side residents, 21st Century developed two innovative programs, the Alain Locke Charter Academy (ALCA) in 1999 and the Family Resource & Learning Center (FRLC) in 2000. Both programs partner to directly address those needs in the East Garfield Park community, providing equitable education opportunities for hundreds of children and families and reflecting ICTC’s central belief that all citizens, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socio-economic background, can succeed given such opportunities. ALCA, with the support of FRLC, has become one of the most improved public schools in Chicago over the last three years.

For seven years, 21st Century and ICTC have shared building space and a common mission. After years of successful collaboration as related entities, 21st Century and ICTC merged May 2005.