Research that has previously attempted to determine the effectiveness of selective enrollment institutions in Chicago, compared to their non-selective counterparts, has almost exclusively focused on quantitative approaches. This project sought to evaluate whether SEHS (selective enrollment high schools) are beneficial for all students who attend from a qualitative perspective. Former students were surveyed and interviewed as a part of the study.

The study found that there is a discernable benefit to attending these institutions, compared to other schools, due to many SEHS having fundraising arms that bring in hundreds of thousands of additional dollars a year. This extra money means that teachers have more equipment to perform their job, and students generally have better resources and facilities. However, there is a stark divide in the kind of students who benefit the most and least from attending these schools. Low income and/or POC students have unique challenges when they attend these schools. These issues include but are not limited to distinct racism/classism and long commute times. Wealthier students do not face the same burdens as their lower-income peers. Therefore, CPS must make changes to its selective enrollment schools to better serve the needs of its most vulnerable students.