Portfolio cities allow principals and teachers—those who work most closely with kids everyday—to decide how and what to teach to bring out the best in their students.

In portfolio cities, families have the freedom to choose their neighborhood school or another that is the best fit for their children. Portfolio cities make sure there are good schools in every neighborhood. The cities also give families useful information and support to make enrolling clear and simple.

In portfolio cities, funding is linked to each student—no matter where he or she goes to school—rather than to staff positions. More of the central office’s money heads directly to schools, and principals can make spending choices that best serve their students’ needs.

Every city needs smart, compassionate, motivated, creative people working in schools and central offices. Portfolio cities have strategies to develop the strong people they already have and seek new talent from a wide array of sources, including the best districts, charter schools, and training programs.

Schools need to be able to make use of the best ideas, training, and materials available. In a portfolio city, support may come from the central office but may also come from local organizations, online providers, or other sources. Portfolio cities help find the best resources and allow schools to purchase what they want within their budget.

Schools need to be caring, cheerful, exciting places. They also must be places where children are challenged to learn and succeed. Schools must be able to show that all students are being engaged and prepared for the next grade, graduation, and beyond. Portfolio cities create a set of transparent performance measures for all schools in the city.

Portfolio leaders need to engage with families, educators, and communities to understand what they value and include those needs in city plans. Portfolio cities need to show what they will deliver, in terms of outcomes for students and new opportunities for families, teachers, and school leaders—and clearly communicate on their progress. .