Overview

• The U.S. Department of Education has launched a Title VI investigation into Chicago Public Schools' Black Student Success Plan, alleging race-based discrimination.
• The investigation stems from a February complaint by Parents Defending Education, a conservative group that claims the plan excludes other racial groups despite district data showing academic struggles across all demographics.
• CPS officials have declined to comment on the investigation, while the district emphasizes that the plan is mandated by Illinois law to address systemic inequities affecting Black students.
• The Black Student Success Plan includes measures such as reducing Black student suspensions, recruiting Black teachers, and expanding Black history education, aiming to address longstanding racial disparities.
• Schools found in violation of Title VI risk losing federal funding, which currently accounts for 16% of CPS's budget, raising concerns about potential financial repercussions for the district.