Priscilla Chan pulls $125 million from low-income school, cites shift to AI focus
The Primary School, a tuition-free institution co-founded by Priscilla Chan in 2016 and funded with $125 million from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, closed in June after its main donor withdrew support.
Founded in 2016 by Priscilla Chan and her husband, the Primary School provided free education and comprehensive wraparound services to low-income families, attracting almost 540 students. Over a decade, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative contributed more than $125 million, but in April 2025 the board voted to close after learning CZI would cease funding after the 2025-26 academic year. Jean-Claude Brizard, board president, explained that the school could not remain open without its largest donor’s backing.
CZI emphasized that the closure decision rested with the board and that its focus had shifted toward scientific research and artificial intelligence. To mitigate the impact, CZI pledged $5 million for lease obligations and $3.6 million for education savings accounts, while the local Ravenswood City Elementary School District prepares for an influx of students.
Why it matters
The shutdown ends a high-profile education experiment and highlights shifting philanthropic priorities toward AI and science.
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