Chicago’s Deputy Mayor of Education Stepping Away Amid Tensions Between City Hall, CPS
Tensions Run High
Chicago’s Deputy Mayor of Education, Youth, and Human Services, Jennifer "Jen" Johnson, is taking a leave from her role amid an ongoing conflict between Mayor Brandon Johnson and Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Johnson informed Chalkbeat late last week that she would be on leave for the coming weeks, though the duration is unclear. A spokesperson for the mayor’s office declined to comment on personnel matters.
A Career in Education
Johnson was appointed to her current role in May 2023. With a background in education, she formerly served as chief of staff at the Chicago Teachers Union and was a high school history teacher. Her focus has been on expanding youth job opportunities and supporting migrant students, in addition to her work with CPS.
Contract Negotiations
In a June 2023 interview, Johnson expressed optimism about contract negotiations with the Chicago Teachers Union, stating, "I expect these negotiations to be less painful, more inclusive, and driven by a shared set of goals." However, tensions have grown, particularly with the CTU taking aim at CPS CEO Pedro Martinez, hired under former Mayor Lori Lightfoot.
Challenges Ahead
The relationship between the mayor’s office and Martinez’s administration has become increasingly tense, with disagreements over how to address looming costs, including a pension contribution for non-teaching staff and added expenses related to new Chicago Teachers Union and principals contracts. The conflict also arises as billions in COVID relief money from the federal government expires.
School Board Resignations
Last month, Mayor Johnson asked Martinez to resign, but he declined. The school board, with sole power to fire the district’s CEO, has been operated by the mayor. Tensions boiled over when all seven members of the mayor’s appointed school board resigned, and the mayor announced six new members the following week.
Elections Ahead
Next month, Chicago’s voters will elect 10 school board members, and the mayor will appoint 11, following the first-ever school board election in the city.
Conclusion
The departure of Deputy Mayor Johnson raises questions about the future of education in Chicago, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions between the mayor’s office and CPS. As the city navigates its education landscape, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the direction of the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the reason for Deputy Mayor Johnson’s leave?
- She is taking the leave to focus on her health and family, stating that she does not want it to be misconstrued or used for political purposes.
- What are the underlying issues leading to the conflict between the mayor’s office and CPS?
- Tensions surround contract negotiations, looming costs, and the appointment of CPS CEO Pedro Martinez.
- How will the departure of Deputy Mayor Johnson affect the education landscape in Chicago?
- Only time will tell, but it remains to be seen how this development will impact the future of education in the city.
