In a major step toward a fully elected school board, Mayor Brandon Johnson has completed the final appointments to Chicago’s first-ever hybrid Board of Education. The 21-member board, composed of 11 mayoral appointees and 10 elected members, represents a shift toward greater transparency, equity, and public participation in governing Chicago Public Schools (CPS).
“For decades, families, educators and students have called for greater transparency, equity and representation in our public school system,” said Johnson. “This hybrid school board is a monumental step toward a truly democratic and community-led CPS. With these dedicated leaders, our schools will be led by people who deeply understand the needs of students, families and educators.”
A New Era of Leadership
At the helm of the new board is Sean Harden, a South Side native and veteran public servant appointed as Board President. Harden previously served as Deputy CEO of Community Affairs for CPS and held key positions under former Mayor Richard M. Daley.
The hybrid structure, in place until 2027, aims to balance experienced leadership with community representation. The elected members, chosen in November 2024, join mayoral appointees selected for their expertise in education, advocacy, and public service.
Mayor’s Appointees:
Johnson’s selections bring a diverse range of experiences to the board:
- Sean Harden (Board President) – Veteran public servant with expertise in education leadership and community engagement.
- Ed Bannon (District 1a) – CPS parent, community organizer, and former 38th Ward alderman candidate.
- Debby Pope (District 2b) – Educator and labor leader, known for advocating teachers’ rights.
- Norma Rios-Sierra (District 3a) – CPS parent and community organizer focused on inclusive education.
- Karen Zaccor (District 4a) – Veteran CPS teacher and policy strategist.
- Michilla “Kyla” Blaise (District 5b) – Policy professional and chief of staff to a Cook County commissioner.
- Anusha Thotakura (District 6a) – Policy analyst and civic engagement advocate.
- Emma Lozano (District 7a) – Immigrant rights activist and education advocate.
- Cydney Wallace (District 8b) – CPS parent and South Side community advocate.
- Frank Niles Thomas (District 9a) – Business leader focused on economic development in underserved communities.
- Olga Bautista (District 10b) – Southeast Side environmental justice leader and CPS parent.
Elected Members:
Chicago voters elected 10 members in the city’s first school board elections, emphasizing local control and public accountability:
- Jennifer Custer (District 1b) – Educator, mother, and former dean of students.
- Ebony L. DeBerry (District 2a) – Former CPS teacher and community organizer.
- Carlos A. Rivas Jr. (District 3b) – Civilian Office of Police Accountability spokesperson and former school counselor.
- Ellen Rosenfeld (District 4b) – CPS educator and Local School Council leader.
- Aaron “Jitu” Brown (District 5a) – Nationally recognized education advocate.
- Jessica Biggs (District 6b) – Former teacher, principal, and CPS parent.
- Yesenia Lopez (District 7b) – Community advocate and Latino outreach leader.
- Angel Gutierrez (District 8a) – Private school executive and former Catholic Charities leader.
- Therese Boyle (District 9b) – School psychologist and mental health advocate.
- Che “Rhymefest” Smith (District 10a) – Grammy-winning artist and community activist.
The Road Ahead
Johnson’s administration has committed to fully funding public schools, amplifying student and educator voices, and addressing systemic inequities. The board’s priorities include funding equity, expanded mental health resources, and deeper collaboration with educators.
The hybrid model sets the stage for a fully elected board by 2027, ensuring that Chicago’s school system is shaped by those it serves. “This transition marks a new era for public education – one rooted in democracy, transparency, and equity,” Johnson said.
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