Chicago Board of Education announces finalists for CPS CEO

March 13, 2026 - 18:18

The Chicago Board of Education has announced a shortlist of finalists for the critical role of Chief Executive Officer of Chicago Public Schools (CPS). This decision marks a pivotal step in the search for a permanent leader to guide the nation's third-largest school district.

The board conducted a comprehensive national search, reviewing numerous applications to identify candidates who possess the vision and expertise necessary to address the district's ongoing challenges and opportunities. The finalists are now set to participate in a final round of interviews and community engagement sessions.

Stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and community advocates, have emphasized the need for a leader focused on academic improvement, equitable resource allocation, and stabilizing school operations. The selection of a new CEO is one of the most significant decisions facing the board, with the outcome directly impacting over 300,000 students across hundreds of schools.

The board aims to make a final selection in the coming weeks, ensuring a smooth transition for the upcoming academic year. The new CEO will be tasked with implementing long-term strategies for student success and district-wide growth.