Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Board of Education have announced a transition plan for board members, with all current members set to step down later this month. This change is part of the move towards a hybrid elected and appointed board system. Both Mayor Johnson and the board emphasize the importance of establishing a strong foundation for this transition to best serve students and families in Chicago Public Schools.

Under Mayor Johnson's administration, several goals were achieved in collaboration with the board. These include moving away from inequitable student-based budgeting, completing a shift to a school safety model that does not rely on school resource officers, and focusing on Black Student Success. The partnership also resulted in improved special education services, increased accountability in charter school renewals, and the initiation of a new five-year strategic plan. This plan focuses on continued progress by investing in neighborhood schools and expanding the Sustainable Community School model instead of closing schools.

None of the current board members intend to continue onto the hybrid board or run for election. The increase in board membership presents an opportunity for new members to gain experience before additional elected and appointed members join in 2025.