The plan could open its first school as early as fall 2009 and officials want to start up to six other residential programs in the later years, including a minimum of one year-round institution, the Chicago Tribune reported Friday.

"Some children should not go home at night; some of them we need 24-7. We want to serve children who are really not getting enough structure at home," Chicago Public Schools Chief Executive Officer Arne Duncan told the Tribune.

In accordance with the city's Renaissance 2010 program for new schools, the district reportedly will submit a formal application for the proposal of boarding schools in April.

Officials have already met with numerous private and public boarding schools throughout the country and requested that they turn in proposals, the Tribune report said.