Chicago is about to make history by moving to a fully elected school board.

Who will you vote for?

Beginning in November, Chicago voters will have an even greater role in choosing the leaders who will help shape the future of Chicago Public Schools.

These upcoming candidate forums provide an opportunity to hear directly from the people seeking these leadership roles on the Board of Education and to learn more about their priorities and perspectives. Attend one of them and make informed decisions about the future of Chicago’s schools.

School Board President Candidate Forum

Tuesday, September 15 • 5:30 - 6:30 PM

A WTTW News Town Hall, broadcast live from WTTW Studios

WTTW will bring together the four candidates for School Board President for a live conversation moderated by Chicago Tonight anchor Brandis Friedman.

The School Board President is elected citywide, making it one of only four such positions. Candidates will discuss some of the most important challenges facing CPS, including the district’s financial situation and enrollment, and Chicago residents will have an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates.

There are three ways to participate:

  • Watch it live on WTTW

    Tune in when the forum airs and hear directly from the candidates. 

  • Attend the live studio audience

    WTTW Television, 5400 N. St. Louis
    A limited number of Chicago residents can attend the forum in person at WTTW Studios.

    Free, but RSVP is required.

  • Join the community watch party at Malcolm X College

    Malcolm X College1900 W. Jackson Blvd.4:00–7:00 PM
    Join Kids First Chicago and community partners at Malcolm X College to watch the forum together with other parents, students, educators and community members. 

    The watch party will include refreshments, live performances from local community groups and an opportunity to connect with others who care about the future of Chicago’s schools.

    Free, but RSVP is required.


Elected School Board District Candidate Forum

Saturday, September 19 • 10:30 AM–12:00 PM

Intentional Sports Building 1841 N. Laramie Avenue.

Do you know who your School Board representative is? Or which School Board district you are in? Meet the candidates running to represent Chicago communities on the new 21-member Board of Education. This nonpartisan forum will bring candidates together with the communities they hope to represent, including parents, students, educators and neighbors. It is an opportunity to hear directly from candidates, learn more about their plans and get answers to questions that matter to Chicago families and schools. Free, but RSVP is required.

Be informed. Be engaged. Be part of Chicago’s next chapter in school governance.

These forums are sponsored by the Chicago Education Alliance, Kids First Chicago, Mikva Challenge and The Chicago Public Education Fund.