Speaker Welch Celebrates Passage of Elected School Board for Chicago Public Schools

SPRINGFIELD Ill. – The Illinois House of Representatives passed legislation last week implementing an elected school board for Chicago Public Schools after years of negotiations and advocate input. As a product of an elected school board, Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch applauded the bill’s passage and all those who worked to get it done. 

“With the passage of this legislation, we made history and we’re charting a brighter future for generations to come,” said Speaker Welch. “Chicagoans in every part of the city can begin to circulate petitions to run for their school board in just three weeks and this November every Chicagoan will be able to vote for an elected representative who will answer to them. Passing this legislation allows us to keep our promise to allow every Chicagoan to have a say in their school board.

"I want to thank Rep. Ann Williams and the entire CPS Districting Work Group for getting this historic proposal across the finish line. It’s been a long, deliberate process, but this House Working group stood by the compromises that made this elected school board possible after years of negation. Thank you for your hard work and thank you for your continued commitment to getting this right for the children and families of Chicago."

“We are delivering on a promise years in the making. I believe this bill is fair, equitable and responsible, and importantly, will give a voice and vote to every Chicagoan right out of the gate. Our new map reflects the diversity, input, and values of Chicago’s many vibrant communities,” said Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago, who sponsored the legislation. “Starting this fall, every Chicago voter can elect candidates for school board who reflect their values and priorities for the Chicago Public Schools. I was proud to support this historic bill, and appreciate the hard work, commitment and passion of all the countless advocates and community members who worked so hard on this issue over so many years.”

“I look forward to working with all the school board candidates to make the Chicago Public Schools the best they can be for all Chicago’s students.”

Williams’ Senate Bill 15 codifies district boundaries and an election procedure consistent with a compromise phasing in a fully-elected Chicago school board. This plan allows every Chicago voter to elect a Chicago School Board member in 2024. Ten elected representatives will serve alongside appointed members, who must also reside in those specific districts. Beginning in 2026, the districts will be subdivided into 20 districts, and voters will select a fully elected board. A board president will also be elected citywide in 2026.

For Speaker Welch’s full remarks, click here.