**Search for Chicago Public Schools CEO Narrows Down to Two Finalists**
CHICAGO (WLS) — The search for the next CEO of Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has narrowed down to two finalists after one candidate withdrew her name from consideration. This development has sparked calls for Mayor Brandon Johnson to move quickly in appointing a permanent leader for the district.
Pedro Martinez stepped down as CPS CEO in June of last year when his contract expired. Since then, Macquline King has been serving as interim CEO. King, who has risen through the ranks within CPS, has led the district for the past nine months. Supporters are now urging the mayor to officially name her as the permanent CEO.
As the Board of Education approaches the final months of the current school year and starts preparing for the fall, uncertainty remains over who will take the helm permanently. However, many point to King’s leadership during a challenging budget period as strong evidence for her appointment.
“In her first 60 days as interim CEO, she balanced probably one of the most challenging budgets that CPS has ever endured — with no school cut days, no furlough days, and we did not have to take out a high-interest loan,” said Education Committee member Alderman Stephanie Coleman, adding that these accomplishments make King a strong candidate for the permanent role.
Last week, the board announced three finalists for the CEO position, including King. The other finalist still in the running is Sito Narcisse, former superintendent of East Baton Rouge Public Schools. Meisha Porter, previously the chancellor of New York City Schools, withdrew from consideration after her candidacy became public.
Reflecting on Porter’s withdrawal, 19th Ward Alderman Matt O’Shea commented, “Well, I think she got a close look at the situation we have here, what a mess. Who would want to come here and take this on?”
Additionally, Latino leaders in Chicago are emphasizing the importance of selecting a CEO with deep experience serving Latino communities and immigrant families. The president of the Latino Policy Forum released a statement highlighting that nearly half of CPS students are Latino, many of whom are English Learners. The statement emphasized that children and families deserve leaders who see them, know them, and advocate for them.
Alderman Coleman stressed the urgency of filling the position soon, saying, “I do hope, within a very short time period — especially considering that one of the candidates has dropped out of the running for CPS leadership — that the mayor, his administration, and the board make a decision sooner rather than later.”
The two remaining finalists are scheduled to interview with Mayor Brandon Johnson as well as a community panel comprising educators, parents, and students. However, the timeline for these interviews and when the board will convene to vote on the new CEO remains unclear.
Chicago Public Schools and community members alike await a timely decision to ensure strong leadership heading into the next academic year.
https://abc7chicago.com/post/meisha-porter-withdraws-name-chicago-public-schools-ceo-search-leaving-macquline-king-sito-narcisse/18742925/
