Chicago School Board members, both elected and appointed, must learn to govern effectively
Chicago’s public education system is on the brink of a historic shift as we prepare for our first elected school board in 2025. This January, the CPS board will welcome 21 new members — some elected, some appointed — charged with ensuring the success of 323,000 young people.
The path ahead feels uncertain, but one thing is clear: No matter how school board members are (or were) selected, whether by election or appointment, their ability to govern effectively will define the future of our schools.
School board members play a vital role in shaping the direction of our education system. A strong board represents the community's values and beliefs, develops a shared vision for public education, sets clear and achievable goals and holds itself accountable for the success of Chicago’s students.
This isn’t a political contest. It’s about ensuring tevery young person in Chicago Public Schools receives a quality education that prepares them for success in life.
As we prepare for this new chapter, there has been a lot of debate (and confusion) over how board members are chosen. But ultimately, the method of selection — whether election or appointment — is secondary to one essential requirement: effective governance. Many candidates lack experience in governing a major public board, and without a strong orientation, the risks of missteps, distractions and overlooked responsibilities are high.
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It is not enough to simply win an election or be appointed. Just as any executive stepping into a complex new role, school board members must undergo a thorough orientation to understand their role, responsibilities and relationship to CPS leaders and the community. Critically, members must recognize they serve the entire school system — not just the interests of their specific districts.
Our new board members deserve to be equipped with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions, prioritize student needs and navigate complex policy choices.
As Chicago embarks on this new chapter with one of the largest school boards in the nation, the stakes couldn’t be higher. We owe it to our students, families and communities to ensure each member is prepared to lead.
The Academy for Local Leadership at National Louis University has more information about the candidates and school board training.
Bridget Lee, executive director, ALL Chicago
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African Americans voted for a return to Jim Crow.
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Parents voted against vaccines for their children, used for decades to prevent the spread of vicious diseases.
People dwelling along our oceans voted to deny climate warming that will force them to move inland.
Young men voted for a supposed strong man without regard for the U.S. Constitution.
Law-abiding citizens voted for an impeached president and a felon with several indictments hanging over his head.
Christians voted for someone who does not love but hates his enemies and plans retribution against them.
Jews voted for Christian nationalism.
Arab Americans voted for an unending slaughter in Gaza.
What has led us to repeat the very thing we fought against in my childhood, the 1940s, when we saved the world from fascism?
Rev. Martin Deppe, Edgewater