I remember serving as Policy Director for the strong community organizing and activist non-profit, Action Now. Their blue shirts are still visible at many Social Justice efforts.

When Rahm Emanuel closed 50 schools over one summer by decree and edict, it was blatant: almost every school was in a black or brown neighborhood. Black students and Latinx students were upended from the schools where they were growing into young Chicagoans.

A generation hurt. Rather, a specific group of the generation hurt.

And here was the research.

Who in CPS is responsible for the false narrative that the decisions of what public schools to close where not assessed as a political gamble?

Their logic is obvious. Which group can be forced to sacrifice the most yet not wealthy enough to launch a successful counter offensive?: there were amazingly brave and structured efforts that were able to save a few schools. Only a few.

How many students did not make the transition successfully?

How underreported are CPS’ internal numbers?

Is data hidden from carelessness, neglect, or maliciousness?

And what do we need to do to make sure this doesn’t happen again?

The elected school board is coming. I propose we work to make the elected body even stronger than it is currently legislated.

It’s a must.

We are already getting into place.