Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has appointed six new members to the Chicago Board of Education just days after all seven board members resigned amid a growing fight over control of the city’s schools. The move has raised concerns about maintaining continuity in governance.
“What’s being carried out right now is my authority as mayor of the city of Chicago,” Mayor Johnson said while taking questions during a news conference Monday, Oct. 7. “If you want to know, I am fulfilling the executive responsibility that is given to me by state law.”
The controversy surrounding the school board ignited when Johnson allegedly called for the CEO of Chicago Public Schools, Pedro Martinez, to step down, which Johnson denied.
The seven board members — appointed by Johnson last year —resigned as negotiations between Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Teachers Union ramped up amid a significant budget deficit facing the city.
In response to the resignations, Johnson appointed six new members and is now facing criticism from activist groups regarding his handling of the situation. The mayor, a former teachers union organizer, is accused of attempting to consolidate power.