Update: Search for a CPS CEO
The latest intelligence COAL has gathered on the search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Chicago Public Schools (CEO), is that although not formally communicated, the two finalists are Meisha Porter, a former NYC Schools Chancellor and Alex Marrero, superintendent of Denver Public Schools in Colorado, and to the dismay of a number of interested parties, current interim CPS Superintendent/CEO Macquline King did not make the cut.
It is, however, very reasonable to ask about King not being a finalist, with her being a native Chicagoan, with deep knowledge of CPS, a strong educational background as a teacher, principal and administrator, her focus on moving the Black Student Success initiative forward and demonstrating a measure of independence from the mayor; points all in her favor.
These following two articles corroborate the information COAL had gathered: Former NYC schools chief a finalist for Chicago schools CEO job – Chalkbeat and CPS CEO search narrowed to 2 candidates and interim CEO Macquline King not 1 of them, sources say – Chicago Sun-Times.
It’s reported that the Chicago Board of Education is scheduled to meet Monday for a special meeting during which they plan to interview the two finalists in person, Further, the board plans to reconvene later in the week to make a final pick and the full 21-member board could then vote on a final contract with the new leader at a meeting scheduled for Dec. 3rd.
However, the plot thickens…
Is it true that the candidate from Denver has retracted his application? Also, as rumored, might the mayor-elect of New York City attempt to re-engage the former chancellor in the NYC school system? Will either or both of these scenarios result in a do-over for the search for a CPS CEO, thus providing another opportunity for King to be reconsidered?
The education of our children requires that we, as a community, be very involved in the process of identifying the right leadership for Chicago Public Schools, leadership with the competencies and capabilities to significantly improve the education of our children and young adults.
_____________________________________________
For Your Consideration
COAL is of the opinion that regardless of who is selected, that individual should receive a contract for one (1) year only, and that the fully elected school board, to be elected in November of 2026, and seated in January of 2027 ultimately select the CPS Superintendent/CEO,
-or-
retain King in the interim position until the fully elected school board can select the permanent CPS lead and provide that individual with a multi-year contract.
The goal of a fully elected school board is to make critical decisions such as filling the position of superintendent / CEO, with as much independence from City Hall as possible, and accountable to Chicago residents. The best chance for Board independence of thought and action comes after the November 2026 Election.
Your thoughts on this matter?
COAL is interested in hearing from its members and greater readership. Please email publicpolicy@coaalchicago.com.