About
Noble Schools is a network of open-enrollment, free public charter schools in Chicago, Illinois. Legally registered as the Noble Network of Charter Schools (EIN 36-4241970), the organization operates 17 campuses serving more than 12,000 current students and supporting a community of alumni that its mission page counts at more than 31,000. Noble is recognized nationally for its performance in college access and persistence.
Mission
Noble's mission is that "Noble will ensure that all students have equitable and positive school experiences that equip them to complete college and lead choice-filled lives." The network also makes an explicit anti-racism commitment, striving "for equity in experiences and outcomes, eliminating the predictability of success or failure based on race, gender, ability, class, sexual orientation or any other identity marker."
What they do
- Operates 17 tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter schools across Chicago, open to all Chicago residents
- Focuses on transformational academic outcomes and supporting alumni as they pursue college and career aspirations
- Runs student and alumni supports such as the Summer of a Lifetime program and an Alumni Career Office
- Organizes its current strategy around three priorities — Grow, Keep, and Renew — across five focus areas: academics, college, operations, staff experience, and student and family experience, guided by a 2025-2028 strategic plan
Values
Noble identifies five core values: Results, Respect, Follow Through, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion, and Humility/Self-Awareness.
Financials
According to IRS Form 990 data compiled by ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, the Noble Network of Charter Schools reported total revenue of $240.9 million (including $226.7 million in contributions and grants, which for charter schools include public per-pupil funding), total expenses of $226.3 million, and year-end total assets of $243.5 million for fiscal year 2023. The IRS granted the organization tax-exempt status in March 1999. Noble also publishes audited financial statements and annual reports dating back to 2010 on its website.
Governance
Noble Schools is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by a board, with a network support office at 1 N. State Street, 6th Floor, Chicago, IL 60602. Its 2025-2028 strategic plan was developed with input from hundreds of parents, students, alumni, staff, board members, and community members.