News and Advocacy

CPAA Chief of Staff Kia Banks addressed the Chicago Board of Education at their Agenda Review Committee Meeting on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

The median age of superintendents remains steady at 52, but more educators are reaching the role earlier in their careers.
In a monumental step toward retirement equity, Congress has passed the Social Security Fairness Act.

We know a lot is happening right now, and it’s hard not to feel a little unsettled. An emergent Board of Education meeting has been called, and with it, we’re anticipating some big news—possibly even a leadership change. While there’s plenty we don’t know yet, here’s what we do know: CPAA is here for you, advocating for your needs and ensuring the voice of school leaders stays front and center.

Chicago Board of Education Meeting

Every worker deserves to leave for work without fear for their safety and return home unharmed at the end of the day.

Principals are the backbone of Chicago’s public schools, the steady force ensuring that students and communities thrive despite the turmoil. But this stability doesn’t happen by chance; it’s something we fight for every day, with every ounce of our energy.

Thank you to the principals and assistant principals who participated in the Elected School Board Forums last week. It was crucial for laying the groundwork for inclusion after the elections. We must ensure that our collective voices are heard, and CPAA is here to represent that voice. Board members must also recognize that to effectively understand the needs of the districts they serve, they need to maintain open and regular communication with principals and assistant principals. The forums went a long way to illustrate those facts.

The national elections are now behind us, and it’s time to focus on healing and working together for a stronger, more united future for our nation. We all share a desire for opportunity and progress, and our commitment to these ideals will guide us forward.