Chicago mayor appoints final member to Board of Education

CHICAGO (WGN) — Mayor Brandon Johnson on Tuesday appointed a final member to the city’s first-ever hybrid Board of Education, the majority of which was seated last month.

Cydney Wallace is a Chicago Public Schools parent who currently serves as the board vice president for the Jewish Council on Urban Affairs.

“It’s always been my belief that every student, regardless of where their school is or their economic status, should be offered the same educational opportunities,” Wallace said in a statement released through the JCUA. “I’m excited to get to work alongside the other Board members to ensure our school system meets the needs of its students, teachers, families, staff, and the greater community.”

The newly formed board is comprised of 21 representatives. Ten were chosen by Chicago voters in last November’s election. Each of the 10 districts represents about 275,000 residents and is subdivided into two areas. Wallace, a mother of four, will represent residents in 8B, which covers a portion of the city’s south and southwest sides. District 8A is represented by Angel Gutierrez.

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The remaining 11 board members, one from each district and a board president, were appointed by Johnson. His office said the appointees were selected for their expertise and leadership in education, community advocacy and public service.

The school board oversees Chicago Public Schools, setting policies and goals, hiring and evaluating the CEO and providing financial oversight. The board also approves and renews charter schools.

Wallace joins a board that is currently seeking a new CEO, following the termination of Pedro Martinez, who remains in the post through June. The board is also facing the possibility that the Chicago Teachers Union could strike next month amid ongoing contract negotiations with Chicago Public Schools.

The Chicago Board of Education: