CPS - An Elected School Board?

Peter Cunningham as the Executive Director of Education Post (a school reform organization) has written a 'Perspective' piece in today's Chicago Tribune arguing against an elected school board in Chicago. He has a number of thoughtful points and arguments to be sure, some that certainly merit our attention and consideration. One such point is the idea that appointed citizens to the board aren't involved in elections and are shielded from the messiness that is our politics.

However, even that point needs to be examined. Sure, the members don't have to run for office, raise money and, in turn, aren't beholden to groups who raised the funds and might expect something in return. Still, without being elected isn't it possible that board members will feel beholden to the mayor of Chicago? Politics are always in the equation.

Cunningham also says that "without control of schools, Chicago mayors could not argue to state lawmakers that funding will be well-spent." That argument suggests that elected board members won't have that ability to make such a case and I simply believe some well qualified and thoughtful board members can make those arguments to the folks in Springfield. Besides who says that an elected school board and mayor can't work in a cooperative fashion? They can.

Finally, the citizens who have a direct interest in public education are the ones who ought to pick school board members. We allow them to vote for the mayor, state and federal legislators and the President of the United States of America. If we entrust citizens with this responsibility we can and should allow them to select members to the CPS Board of Education.

Dick