Chicago Public School CEO to leave in June
Dr. Janice Jackson CEO of Chicago Public Schools announced her departure after 5 years. Jackson contract expires in June. Photo by Tia C. Jones
On Monday, May 3, Dr. Janice Jackson, CEO of Chicago Public Schools, joined Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot in a press conference to announce that she would be stepping down as CPS CEO at the end of June.
“While I feel there is still more work to be done in CPS, I also believe it is time to pass the torch to new leadership for the next chapter. Therefore, after careful deliberation, I have made the tough decision not to renew my contract as CEO, which expires on June 30, 2021,” Jackson wrote.
Part of Jackson’s accomplishments include the creation of two state-of-the-art high schools, Englewood STEM High School and Bronzeville Classical. She thanked the Community Action Councils for partnering with her, along with the residents, to bring these schools to these communities.
Jackson also talked about the enhanced budgeting process, with the roll of our equity grants. She said for the third year in a row, equity grants were included in the budget and the value has increased each year. She also said more than 50 schools have received new programs -- IB, STEM and World Language.
“This was a dream job,” she said.
Jackson said she thinks it is time to leave, as her contract ends. But added, “I fully intend to support the new CEO.”
Jackson said COVID-19 really put things in perspective. She said one thing is family. She said she wanted to spend more time with her family, with her children.
Jackson said she let the Mayor know a couple of months ago that she was thinking about leaving, doing something outside the District.
“I think we’ve served, we’ve all made personal sacrifices,” she said, of herself, Chief Education Officer LaTanya McDade and Chief Operating Officer Arnie Rivera, all of whom are leaving.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot said that Jackson’s story is remarkable as are her accomplishments. One accomplishment is Jackson’s establishment of Universal Pre-K within the Chicago Public School System.
“Dr. Jackson has blazed a trail of successes and record setting achievements,” Lightfoot said.
Lightfoot added, under Jackson’s leadership, CPS has provided equal opportunities for students and erased the achievement and graduation gap.
“Dr. Jackson has been a steady hand. Dr. Jackson has never lost sight to do what’s right for our children,” Lightfoot said.
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