Chicago Federation of Labor Endorses 209 Students 1st Slate in the Proviso Township High Schools District 209’s School Board Race


Chicago Federation of Labor Endorses 209 Students 1st Slate in the Proviso Township High Schools District 209’s School Board Race

CHICAGO – The Chicago Federation of Labor (CFL), one of the metropolitan area's most influential organizations, has endorsed the 209 Students 1st Slate in the Proviso Township High Schools District 209’s School Board race. This endorsement is significant as the CFL is the umbrella group for 300 unions in suburban Cook County and Chicago.


The 209 Students 1st Slate, a group of dedicated individuals with a shared vision for the future of Proviso Township High School District 209, includes Arbdella "Della" Patterson, who is seeking her third term on the board, and newcomers Jerry Jenkins, Zihualpilli Hernandez, and Candice Ross. 

"The Chicago Federation of Labor's endorsement is huge," said Patterson, who joined the board in 2017. "They have over 300 affiliated unions, and usually when they make an endorsement, that is significant.”

When asked why she believes the CFL endorsed the 209 Students 1st Slate, Patterson said, "We have a strong understanding of issues impacting working-class families."

About the Chicago Federation of Labor

The CFL has a long history of advocating for labor rights, fair wages, and better working conditions. Founded in 1896, the CFL represents 300 unions, which in turn represent approximately 500,000 members. The organization is actively involved in political lobbying, labor rights advocacy, and community support.

The 209 Students 1st Slate seeks to provide a high-quality education for all students, increase safety in schools, create a welcoming environment for parents, and bring stability to the district, which has had more than a dozen superintendents over the past two decades.

"The upcoming election on April 1 is crucial," Patterson emphasized. "The voters' decision on Election Day will help set the district's course over the next four years. It's important for everyone to head to the polls and make their voices heard."

Four school board members, including the president, are not seeking re-election. 

District 209 has approximately 4,200 students, primarily Hispanic and African American, from 10 communities – Bellwood, Berkeley, Broadview, Forest Park, Hillside, Maywood, Melrose Park, Northlake, Stone Park, and Westchester. Maywood has the largest number of students in the district, with three high schools, but Patterson is the only candidate from Maywood.

"We are looking to represent all the people - students and parents - from all communities," said Patterson, who has lived in Maywood for 45 years and with students inside and outside the district for over two decades. "We must sound the alarm that our children’s future and our communities are at stake. Ultimately, we are responsible for what happens in our district, and our vote can send a strong message on Election Day." 

She added, "We need stability in the district. We have had 13 superintendents since 2005. If there is no stability at the top, there will be no stability in the system. We are talking about students first. We can work together if you discuss academic achievement and student learning.”

For additional information about the 209 Students 1st slate, visit www.209students1st.org/donate. To arrange interviews, contact Jerry Thomas at jerry@jerrythomaspr.com or 312-804-7999.


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