As the Director of Family and Community Engagement for Chicago Public Schools, Kareem Pender is a seasoned leader with over 27 years of experience spanning education, government, and social services. With a rich background that includes prominent roles at organizations such as the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and the Chicago Urban League, Kareem brings a wealth of expertise to his vital role.

Kareem’s dedication to fostering collaboration between schools, families, and communities is evident in his commitment to building bridges and creating inclusive spaces where stakeholders can effectively collaborate. He believes strongly in the power of strong parent and community partnerships to support student achievement.

In his role, Kareem champions the idea of schools as collaborative hubs, families as engaged and empowered partners, and communities as integral components of student’s educational journeys. Through his leadership, he strives to ensure that Chicago Public Schools remain a beacon of collaboration, engagement, and empowerment for all stakeholders involved in the education process.