Last month, we told you about a proposal that Cleveland Superintendent Eric Gordon and Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson (Cleveland’s schools are under mayoral control) brought to the state legislature. It was welcomed with open arms as it represented a serious approach to transforming a district that has been struggling mightily for decades.

With support from philanthropists, the Cleveland Teachers’ Union, and parts of the charter school community, and both sides of the aisle, the proposal was tweaked and then finalized last week.

Cleveland follows in the footsteps of portfolio districts across the country – including Boston, Chicago, and others – who see their main role as “school portfolio managers” rather than having to be the only education provider in the city.

The success of the reforms hinge on the passage of a school levy in the district in the fall, so leaders are waiting with bated breath for a vote of confidence from the Cleveland taxpayers.