Introduction to Pedro Martinez’s Farewell
When Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced Pedro Martinez as Chicago Public Schools CEO in 2021 outside Benito Juarez Community Academy on the Lower West Side, she called him a “son of Chicago.” On Tuesday, Martinez returned to his high school alma mater for an eighth-grade graduation ceremony, his last as district leader as he prepares to leave the role next week after a tumultuous four years.
A Personal Connection to the Community
In his remarks to students, Martinez recalled his Chicago roots as he bid farewell to the community that he said has always welcomed him. “I’m so grateful to you as a community. I grew up here in Pilsen. I’m a Pilsen kid, a Chicago kid,” he said. “I want to thank the community and most importantly the district, which has given me so much.” The ceremony was for students at John A. Walsh Elementary, which Martinez attended. The CEO said the occasion brought mixed feelings for him as he cares deeply about the school and community as he’s preparing to leave.
Encouragement to Follow Passions
Martinez — who immigrated to Chicago from Mexico when he was 5 — told the students sitting on stage with their caps and gowns that back when he was in elementary school he had no idea where life would take him. He encouraged them to follow their own passions. “When I was your age I could never have imagined being here in front of you, ever,” he said. “When you find your passion, when you find whatever excites you … whatever that is, there is nothing that can stop you.”
Progress and Challenges
He also highlighted Walsh’s role in his development. It’s where he learned to speak English. He said teachers communicated with his parents and promised to give him tough love. He recounted how he grew up in poverty, and how the teachers at Walsh were able to push him to excel academically, helping him become the first in his family of 12 to graduate college. Martinez also mentioned some of the progress he said the district has made on his watch. He touted high school graduation rates and how more students are taking college credit courses while finishing high school.
Student Achievements
During the ceremony, several Walsh graduates were presented with the President’s Education Award for student excellence and achievement. Many also earned the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy, which recognizes students who can communicate in English and another language. One of those students was Maria Luisa Sanchez Cedeno, who received both. She’s next headed for the Chicago Military Academy and is looking forward to new experiences there, she said. Maria, whose family is from Ecuador, has been in Chicago for a year. She said Martinez shows that success is possible for students with her background.
Transition and Future Plans
Martinez’s last day is June 20. He is set to become commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Martinez became CPS CEO in 2021 under Lightfoot, and Mayor Brandon Johnson opted to keep Martinez in place. But Johnson later decided to make a change after the CPS CEO clashed with the mayor and teachers union over a budget deficit, pension payment, and new union contract.
Budget Challenges and Legacy
The budget shortfall continued to hound Martinez in his final weeks. Last month, the principals union blasted Martinez for presenting budget options based on city and state revenue that isn’t guaranteed. The mayor’s office called the budget “irresponsible and reckless.” But in a farewell message to the CPS community last week, Martinez said he was “proud” of the “bold decision” his administration made to fund schools. “I’m proud that the resources a CPS school receives no longer depends on its number of students,” he wrote. “Every school, no matter how big or small, now has the funding for essential positions that all students need and deserve.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pedro Martinez’s farewell to Chicago at the graduation ceremony of his alma mater marks the end of an era for Chicago Public Schools. His legacy, though complex and marked by challenges, highlights the importance of community, passion, and perseverance. As the city moves forward in its search for a new leader, the focus remains on providing the best possible education for its students, building on the progress made during Martinez’s tenure.
FAQs
- Q: Who is Pedro Martinez?
A: Pedro Martinez is the outgoing CEO of Chicago Public Schools, announced in 2021 by Mayor Lori Lightfoot. - Q: Why is Pedro Martinez leaving his position?
A: Martinez is leaving to become the commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and
