The Chicago Board of Education has initiated investigations into two significant internal information leaks, raising concerns about transparency within the organization. These probes aim to uncover how sensitive information was disclosed to the media, particularly regarding the identities of superintendent finalists and details about a planned property tax increase.
CPS Board Investigates Dual Information Leaks
Board President Sean Harden expressed his frustration over the leaks, indicating he might pursue resignation requests for those found responsible. This marks a rare instance of the board examining a breach of confidentiality. Jeffrey Henig, a professor emeritus at Columbia University, noted that such investigations are uncommon at the school board level across the U.S.
Context of the Leaks
Chicago’s school board is currently in a state of transition. For the first time, 10 out of 21 board members are elected, with plans for a fully elected board by next year. This shift from mayoral control is contributing to a climate of uncertainty, affecting how board members collaborate.
- Incident 1: In November, during the selection process for CPS’s new superintendent, the names of finalists were leaked despite board members signing non-disclosure agreements.
- Incident 2: A second leak occurred over the winter break, involving an internal update on a special meeting to vote on a property tax increase.
Details of the Investigations
The leaks came at a time when the board is attempting to establish a united front. The initial leak led to one candidate withdrawing from consideration for the superintendent position. Furthermore, the second leak, revealed by Fox reporter Paris Schutz, contained information pertaining not only to the tax increase but also to other internal matters.
The investigations will be carried out by the board office and the CPS legal department. President Harden reiterated that sharing such confidential updates harms the board’s collective efforts. He highlighted that ongoing leaks necessitate addressing community concerns and interpretations of board actions.
Community and Board Response
- Board member Che “Rhymefest” Smith criticized the secrecy surrounding the tax increase meeting, arguing it should have been better publicized.
- Other board members have expressed mixed feelings about the investigations, with some questioning their necessity in light of the overall challenges facing the board.
The December 29 meeting, where the property tax increase was approved, has drawn criticism from several stakeholders. Critics claim the timing of the meeting was designed to minimize public scrutiny.
Going forward, board members emphasize that improved transparency could help mitigate future leaks. They look forward to a more unified approach as the transition to an entirely elected board progresses by 2027.
