Candidates for Chicago School Board Presidency

Chicago is experiencing a significant change in its education system, with the entire 21 school board seats set for the November ballot. Traditionally, the board had seven appointees by the mayor. Presently, during a two-year transition, the board consists of 10 elected and 11 appointed members. The race for the school board presidency is becoming competitive, with several candidates in contention.

Jessica Biggs

Jessica Biggs, representing downtown and the South Side as an elected board member, is a candidate for the presidency. Previously a Chicago Public Schools principal, Biggs aims to stabilize the district’s financial situation and foster effective collaboration among board members. She emphasized the need to shift focus back to teaching and learning, school improvement, and student success. Her role as director of the Southwest Organizing Project supports her mission. She cited recent political disputes and expressed her readiness to lead positive change.

Jennifer Custer

Board member Jennifer Custer has emerged as a critical voice amid upcoming elections. She criticized the logistical challenges posed by civic initiatives. Supported by the Chicago Teachers Union, Custer has often opposed the union in crucial votes, indicating a growing divide. Representing the Northwest Side, she aims to design strategies for future board success. Her district work reflects her initiative-driven approach.

Hilario Domínguez

Chicago Teachers Union’s political director, Hilario Domínguez, declared his candidacy, adding to a bustling race for presidency. Domínguez plans to protect Chicago Public Schools from budget cuts while advocating for increased state funding. He has played a vital role in union mobilization in previous campaigns. Recently, the board adopted a robust $10.11 billion budget, reliant on anticipated state funds.

Victor Henderson

Victor Henderson, a renowned trial lawyer, has thrown his hat into the school board presidency ring. His experience with Urban Prep Academies during its crisis influenced his passion for driving educational reforms. He believes politicization diminishes focus on student support. By reshaping systemic communication, Henderson seeks to improve operational effectiveness and reduce political controversies.

Sendhil Revuluri

Sendhil Revuluri is re-entering the public education advocacy realm with ambitions to preside over the new school board system. He previously served as vice president of the Chicago Board of Education. Revuluri’s vision centers around achieving educational consistency throughout the city. He believes equitable learning access facilitates future opportunities. His candidacy comes as the city prepares to transition fully into an elected board format.

These candidates stand at the forefront of reshaping Chicago’s Board of Education, each bringing diverse skills and aspirations aimed at improving the educational landscape of the nation’s fourth-largest school district. The upcoming election holds significant potential for systemic improvements through elected leadership practices.