Chicago Prepares for Historic First Fully Elected School Board Election This Fall
Chicago is preparing for its first fully elected school board election this fall, a historic shift where residents will vote for all 21 board seats and the school board president.
Chicago, IL, September 21, 2026 —
Chicago is on the cusp of a significant change in its governance of public education as the city gears up for its first fully elected school board election, scheduled for this fall. This upcoming election marks a historic shift, empowering residents to directly select all 21 members of the Chicago Board of Education, as well as the school board president.
Previously, the composition of the school board was determined through mayoral appointment. The transition to a fully elected board signifies a move towards greater democratic representation and accountability in the oversight of Chicago Public Schools.
Voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots for every seat on the 21-member board, a substantial undertaking that will reshape the leadership of one of the nation’s largest public school systems. The election also includes the selection of the school board president, a crucial leadership role within the district.
The move to a fully elected board has been a long-discussed reform aimed at increasing community involvement and responsiveness. This fall’s election will provide Chicagoans with a direct voice in shaping educational policies and priorities for the city’s students.
Story summarized from the original created by Becky Vevea,Makiya Seminera,Emmanuel Camarillo on www.wbez.org, see more information here.
