51·çÁ÷

Chicago Public Schools Superintendent/CEO Search

Help Shape the Future of CPS

The 51·çÁ÷ (Board) is launching a national search for the next Superintendent/CEO of Chicago Public Schools —a visionary and collaborative leader who will build on our district’s progress and champion the success of every student, in every neighborhood.

As the nation’s fourth-largest school district, we are committed to finding a leader who shares our values of equity, excellence, and community partnership. The new Superintendent/CEO will work alongside families, educators, the Board, and community members to continue driving improvements in student achievement, classroom experiences, and school resources.

Our Commitment

• Inclusive Process: We are centering the voices of students, families, educators, and community stakeholders throughout the search process.
• Transparency: We will provide regular updates and opportunities for public input throughout the process.
• Excellence: We are committed to finding a visionary leader who will help make CPS the best urban school district in the country.

Stay Involved

We invite all members of the CPS community to take part in this important process. Whether by attending a public forum, completing a survey, or sharing your ideas, your voice will help guide our search for a leader who represents the hopes and ambitions of Chicago’s students and families.

There will be multiple ways that the CPS community and Chicagoans can be involved in the weeks ahead, including:

• Community gatherings: During the month of May, there will be a community gathering in each of the ten elected school board districts where the public will be invited to attend and give their input. 
• Focus groups: The District will conduct interviews and focus groups with teachers, students, principals, staff, union leaders, and community partners to allow for deeper discussions.
• Community survey: The Board will issue a community survey to gather feedback broadly.

Schedule of Community Gatherings (*Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)

To RSVP, click the registration link for your preferred event. While attendees are encouraged to join the meeting in their own community, they are welcome to attend any gathering that fits their schedule.The Board will host an event in each of the ten Elected School Board Districts. 

Visit this page regularly as more events will be scheduled soon.

The Board is committed to selecting a leader who upholds educational excellence, equity, and accountability. As outlined in the Board resolution passed on March 20, 2025, candidates must hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License with a Superintendent endorsement—or an equivalent credential from another state.

Applications for the position opened April 25, allowing candidates to apply before the school year ends. 

Through community engagement and feedback, the Board will then shape a comprehensive leadership profile that fits the District and outlines key priorities and goals for the next Superintendent/CEO. 

Following the completion of the initial community engagement, the Board will review the findings in collaboration with its executive search firm, Alma Advisory Group, make the report publicly available, and use it to evaluate candidates for the position. 

News and Updates

• 3.20.25: Board resolution establishing requirements for CPS' next leader
• 4.24.25: Board press release announcing community engagment in the Superintendent/CEO search