Chicago's First Partially Elected School Board Begins Historic Term

The newly sworn-in hybrid board faces financial challenges, contract negotiations, and leadership decisions in shaping the future of Chicago Public Schools.

• The 21-member board, composed of 10 elected members and 11 mayoral appointees, marks a shift from nearly three decades of mayoral control of Chicago Public Schools.
• Board President Sean Harden, a mayoral appointee, emphasized optimism and collaboration in creating an equitable educational environment.
• Tensions surfaced during the vote for vice president, with Olga Bautista, a mayoral appointee, narrowly winning over elected member Jessica Biggs, reflecting political divides.
• The board inherits critical issues, including a looming budget deficit, declining enrollment, and contentious Chicago Teachers Union contract negotiations.
• Outgoing CEO Pedro Martinez, ousted by the previous board, continues to challenge his dismissal while the board prepares to select new district leadership.

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