Chicago City Wire

Chicago is set to hold its first-ever election for the Board of Education overseeing Chicago Public Schools. On November 5, residents will elect ten members to the board. The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) has endorsed candidates in each district, seeking influence over school district decisions.

Illinois Policy reports that under CTU leadership, test scores and enrollment have declined in Chicago Public Schools, despite increased spending. In 2024, fewer than 31% of students from third to eighth grade read at grade level, with only 18% performing math proficiently. Among 11th graders, reading proficiency stands at 22%, and math at 19%. Only third- through eighth-grade reading proficiency has surpassed pre-pandemic levels.

Hannah Schmid, a policy analyst for Illinois Policy, stated: “Under CTU leadership, CPS continues to underprepare students to meet grade-level standards in reading and math.” She criticized CTU for focusing on political agendas rather than improving student outcomes.

The data highlights challenges faced by low-income, Hispanic, and Black students. Fewer than one in four are proficient in reading, with about one in ten achieving math proficiency. Among 11th graders, only 7.4% of Black students meet math proficiency standards. Chronic absenteeism rose to 40.8% during the 2023-2024 school year.

Operational spending per pupil increased by over $8,500 since 2019. In fiscal year 2023, Chicago Public Schools spent $25,459 per student on operational costs—approximately $6,500 above the state average.

Mailee Smith from Illinois Policy remarked: “Chicago residents have the opportunity to reject CTU’s grip on public education that has worsened student outcomes and driven up residents’ taxes.” She called for board members who prioritize students' needs over political goals.

For more information on Chicago Public Schools proficiency ratings, visit illini.is/chicagoschoolscores.