Chicago Extends Black Student Success Committee Applications

Chicago Public Schools is reopening applications for its Black Student Achievement Committee, giving more community members the opportunity to help shape the future of education in the city.

The school board originally launched applications in November with a mid-December deadline. Now they're offering a fresh window from February 2 through February 9, recognizing that the holiday season may have prevented some passionate advocates from applying the first time around.

The committee is open to all Chicago residents, including students, parents, and school employees. Members will serve one-year terms working directly on strategies to improve outcomes for Black students across the district.

This initiative supports Chicago's Black Student Success Plan, which launched last February with clear goals: increase the number of Black teachers in classrooms, reduce suspension rates for Black students, and bring more culturally relevant lessons into schools. The plan represents a concrete commitment to closing achievement gaps that have persisted for decades.

About 500 applications have already been sent to interested community members, according to elected school board member Jitu Brown, who will chair the 14-seat committee. That early interest shows just how many Chicagoans are ready to roll up their sleeves and contribute to meaningful change.

The Ripple Effect spreads far beyond committee meetings and policy documents. When Black students see teachers who look like them, when they study history that includes their heritage, and when discipline policies treat them fairly, the benefits touch entire families and neighborhoods. Children who feel valued and understood at school carry that confidence into every part of their lives. They dream bigger, achieve more, and become the mentors and role models for the next generation.

The committee's work matters now more than ever as advocates have voiced concerns about delays in getting it fully operational. State law requires the committee's establishment, making this extended application period an important step toward fulfilling that mandate and delivering on promises made to Chicago's Black students and families.

Community input drives the best educational outcomes. This second application window ensures that diverse voices from across Chicago can contribute their experiences, ideas, and dedication to building schools where every Black student has the support and resources they need to succeed.

Chicago is making room at the table for everyone who wants to be part of the solution.