Attorney and former Certified Public Accountant, Victor Henderson has officially announced his candidacy for President of Chicago’s newly elected school board, marking a historic moment for the city. For the first time in Chicago’s history, residents will elect representatives to govern Chicago Public Schools, creating one of the largest elected school boards in America.
Chicago Public Schools include 423 district-run elementary schools, 91 high schools, and 108 charter schools serving more than 316,000 students across all 77 communities.
For Henderson, the campaign is deeply personal. Henderson is the father of four CPS graduates and the husband of a retired educator. He says those experiences shaped both his values and his understanding of the opportunities public education can create — as well as the challenges families, students, and teachers face every day. Henderson also credits his father, a graduate of DuSable High School, with instilling in him a strong sense of hard work, opportunity, and service to the community.
“Public education changed the trajectory of my family’s life. My wife dedicated her career to education, and our four children all attended Chicago Public Schools. I understand this system not just as an attorney or accountant, but as a husband, a father, and a parent who trusted CPS with my own children.”
A respected attorney, former CPA, and longtime community leader, Henderson says Chicago’s schools must move beyond politics and refocus on students. “As a lawyer, I know how to advocate for people who need a voice,” Henderson said. “This role should not be about politics — it should be about our students. Parents and teachers are tired of hearing about City Hall when they want us focused on study hall. I want to run the boardroom, so teachers have the support and resources they need to run classrooms.”
Henderson emphasized that Chicago is a world-class city deserving a world-class education system, regardless of a student’s zip code or family income.
“Every student deserves an equal opportunity. Every parent deserves a voice. Every teacher deserves resources and support,” Henderson added. “Access to quality education must be equitable in every neighborhood, whether a school is charter or district-run. Every community deserves a seat at the table when decisions are made about their schools.”
Henderson says preparing students for college, careers, and the workforce will remain a top priority throughout his leadership. “Our students must be prepared for college or the world of work,” he said. “That includes expanded vocational training, both in traditional trades and emerging technology sectors. Every neighborhood deserves great schools because every student deserves a chance.”
Henderson also noted that CPS faces serious financial and operational challenges, including a projected $734 million budget deficit, which he says requires steady leadership and transparent oversight.
“This position requires accountability, transparency, and leadership that understands both the law and the ledger,” Henderson said. “As both an attorney and a former CPA, I will follow every dollar until it reaches the classroom, where it belongs. Transparency and accountability are the first steps toward long-term fiscal stability.”
Henderson says he is committed to ensuring Chicago schools have equitable funding, qualified teachers, safe learning environments, and the support services students need to succeed.
Victor Henderson is an attorney, a former certified public accountant, father of four CPS graduates, and community leader based in Chicago.
For more information, visit www.vicforthekids.org or contact mlp@lengarmedia.com to schedule availability.
