Introduction to the New Leadership Requirement
The Chicago school board has unanimously passed a resolution requiring the next leader of Chicago Public Schools to hold a superintendent’s license. This decision marks a significant shift in the district’s approach to leadership, as CPS is one of the few large districts with a CEO rather than a superintendent at the helm.
Background on the CEO Position
The Illinois law that gave control of the city’s schools to the mayor in 1995 renamed the position and lifted the requirement that its leader hold a superintendent’s license, as required of all other school districts in the state. However, the resolution passed by the board says they will push Illinois lawmakers to change state law to reflect this new requirement.
The Need for an Education Background
Board member Che “Rhymefest” Smith introduced the resolution, arguing that the district needs someone with an education background and know-how to lead it. Smith emphasized that a superintendent will put schools first as the district moves forward, making this requirement crucial for the district’s success.
The Search for a New Leader
The district is gearing up to begin a national search for its next top leader after enlisting a Chicago-based search firm to run it earlier this month. The previous school board fired CEO Pedro Martinez without cause late last year amid a clash with the mayor’s office over how to handle the district’s rising financial pressures. Under a clause in his contract, Martinez will stay on until the end of June, making the search for his replacement a pressing matter.
Qualifications for the Position
A superintendent generally has an advanced degree and a superintendent endorsement from a university, which requires additional training in education. The approved resolution states that Chicago’s next leader “shall hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License, with a Superintendent endorsement as issued by the Illinois State Board of Education or an equivalent credential from another state.”
Historical Context
Historically, under decades of mayoral control, Chicago’s mayors have appointed the district’s CEOs — often close allies with a financial or business background and little or no experience running a school district. This approach has been criticized for prioritizing political connections over educational expertise.
Interim Leadership
Smith’s resolution also applies to interim top leaders for CPS, an administrator the school board might have to appoint if it doesn’t find a permanent replacement for Martinez by his departure in June. This ensures that even temporary leaders have the necessary educational background and expertise.
Conclusion
The Chicago school board’s decision to require a superintendent’s license for its next leader marks a significant shift towards prioritizing educational expertise in district leadership. As the district begins its search for a new leader, this requirement will help ensure that the next CEO is equipped to put schools first and drive success for Chicago’s students.
FAQs
- Q: What is the new requirement for the leader of Chicago Public Schools?
A: The leader must hold a superintendent’s license. - Q: Why was this requirement introduced?
A: The requirement was introduced to ensure that the district’s leader has an education background and expertise. - Q: What is the current status of the search for a new leader?
A: The district has enlisted a Chicago-based search firm to conduct a national search for its next top leader. - Q: When will the current CEO, Pedro Martinez, leave his position?
A: Martinez will stay on until the end of June. - Q: Who introduced the resolution requiring a superintendent’s license?
A: Board member Che “Rhymefest” Smith introduced the resolution.
