Chicago School Board President Election: Candidate Overview

For the first time in city history, Chicago residents can vote for the president of the Chicago Board of Education. Previously, the mayor appointed this position. The board president holds significant influence within the 21-member body by shaping the agenda, from routine contracts to the district’s substantial budget. This board oversees 626 schools and 304,000 students, making it the third-largest school district in the U.S.

The Candidates for School Board President

Three candidates are competing for the position: Jessica Biggs, Hilario Dominguez, and Victor Henderson.

Jessica Biggs

Jessica Biggs is a former principal and a current board member representing District 6B, which includes areas from the Loop to Englewood. She also serves as a director with the Southwest Organizing Project.

• Top Priorities: Prioritizing student learning, improving governance, and ensuring financial stability.
• Position on School Closures: Opposes mass school closures based on past negative impacts.
• Budget Considerations: Criticizes reliance on nonexistent state funding and calls for fiscal order.
• Property Tax Stance: Advocates for increased state funding to lessen dependence on local property taxes.

Hilario Dominguez

Hilario Dominguez, a former CPS special education teacher, has worked with the Chicago Teachers Union and played a role in Mayor Brandon Johnson’s campaign.

• Top Priorities: Universal pre-K, better school meals, and paid work opportunities for students.
• Position on School Closures: Critical of past closures, advocates for sustainable community schools.
• Budget Considerations: Supports highlighting anticipated funds in budgets as a tactic to secure funding.
• Property Tax Stance: Supports tax levies when necessary but emphasizes securing state funds to relieve local taxpayers.

Victor Henderson

Victor Henderson is a civil litigation attorney and has served on the board of Urban Prep Academies.

• Top Priorities: Boosting academic outcomes, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring quality education for all.
• Position on School Closures: Prefers case-by-case consideration over blanket moratoriums.
• Budget Considerations: Urges for pursuing state funding and making decisions on firm revenue estimates.
• Property Tax Stance: Encourages transparency and efficiency before tax increases; seeks adequate state funding.