Chicago Public Schools Names Devon Morales, Sr. as New Executive Director of the Office of Sports Administration

Chicago Public Schools Names Devon Morales, Sr. as New Executive Director of the Office of Sports Administration

CHICAGO — Chicago Public Schools (CPS) announced Monday, April 28, that Mr. Devon Morales, Sr., Principal of Roberto Clemente Community Academy, has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Office of Sports Administration. A proud CPS graduate, U.S. Navy veteran, educator, and longtime school leader, Mr. Morales brings a powerful combination of personal experience, academic leadership, and student-centered commitment to this Districtwide role.

“Devon Morales embodies what CPS is all about—resilience, opportunity, and lifelong learning,” said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. “He has walked the halls of our schools as a student, teacher, and principal. He knows the power of sports to motivate, connect, and transform lives. I am confident that under his leadership, the Office of Sports Administration will thrive and grow in new and exciting ways.”

Morales is a product of J. Sterling Morton Elementary, Brian Piccolo Elementary, and Carl Schurz High School. Following graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), including a tour during the Persian Gulf War from 1990 to 1991. His military service allowed him to travel to five continents—experiences that deeply shaped his worldview and fueled his passion for service and leadership.

After returning home, Morales earned a degree in history education from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1997, where he also became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. He later earned a master’s degree from Olivet Nazarene University in 2001 and a Type 75 certification in educational leadership from Keller Graduate School in 2007.

Morales began his teaching career at South Shore High School, where he taught history from 1998 to 2009. During his tenure, he was twice nominated for the Suave Performance Plus Award and led the school’s debate team to a city championship—their first and only title to date. His leadership helped secure a West Point scholarship for one of his students and contributed to the development of the School of Technology at South Shore.

Morales transitioned into school administration in 2009, holding assistant principal roles at six CPS schools before returning to lead as principal at Olive-Harvey Middle College and Roberto Clemente Community Academy. In every role, he has remained steadfast in his belief that education should prepare students not only for college and career, but also for civic life and leadership.

The District thanks Mickey Pruitt, who is retiring later this summer, for his professionalism and dedication during his 26 years of service in the Office of Sports Administration, including his recent role as the acting executive director. Mr. Morales will begin his tenure as executive director this summer and will work closely with schools, coaches, student-athletes, and community partners to ensure that CPS sports programs continue to be inclusive, competitive, and supportive of student success both on the field and in the classroom.

“I know firsthand the impact sports can have on young people. Wrestling and playing football at Carl Schurz High School had a profound effect on my life—it shaped who I am today,” Mr. Morales said. “I'm honored to lead programming that empowers student athletes to excel not just in the classroom and on the field, but in every aspect of life. Athletics has the unique power to build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility. It’s where lifelong friendships are formed, core values are learned, and unforgettable memories are made.”

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