Ortíz: My Students Benefit From A Fully-Elected CPS School Board

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Aarón Ortíz, D-Chicago, issued this statement Thursday, following the passage of legislation to implement a fully-elected school board for Chicago Public Schools students.

“As a former school counselor, I saw firsthand that decisions coming from an unelected, unaccountable school board hurt the students I worked with,” Ortíz said.

“However, through countless hours of fierce negotiation with advocates, teachers and families, we are delivering a comprehensive plan to bring a voice and a vote to every family in Chicago. This is not a win for any representative, organization or mayor, but a win for our children. While the power to decide local education decisions now lies with everyday families, my work in Springfield to address educational challenges continues. I look forward to bringing my experience, expertise and community’s voice to the work that lies ahead.”
Ortíz’s Senate Bill 15 codifies district boundaries and an election procedure consistent with a compromise phasing in a fully-elected Chicago school board. This plan allows every Chicago voter to elect a Chicago School Board member in 2024. Ten elected representatives will serve alongside appointed members, who must also reside in those specific districts. Beginning in 2026, the districts will be subdivided into 20 districts, and voters will select a fully elected board. A board president will also be elected citywide in 2026.