Jessica Biggs, a member of the Chicago School Board, is campaigning to become the city’s first elected school board president while confronting renewed attention to her 2018 termination as principal of Burke Elementary School. The former principal’s firing and a prior ban from Chicago Public Schools have become focal points in a four‑candidate race that will decide the inaugural presidency in 2026.
The election marks a historic shift for Chicago, moving from an appointed board to a voter‑selected leadership structure. Four candidates are vying for the top post, and Biggs’ candidacy has drawn particular scrutiny because of her past employment actions. In 2018, CPS ended her tenure at Burke Elementary, a decision that remains a point of contention as she seeks higher office. Subsequent to that dismissal, she was barred from employment within the district, a restriction that was only recently lifted, allowing her to run for the presidency.
Chalkbeat Chicago has highlighted the contrast between Biggs’ current ambitions and the lingering questions surrounding her professional record. While the board’s new election format aims to increase community input, the debate over Biggs’ qualifications underscores the challenges of transitioning to an elected system. Critics argue that the 2018 termination raises concerns about her leadership, whereas supporters point to her continued service on the board and the recent removal of the CPS ban as evidence of her commitment to public education.
The race is expected to draw significant voter interest as Chicago residents evaluate the candidates’ histories and visions for the district. As the campaign progresses, the focus on Biggs’ past actions is likely to influence both public perception and the broader conversation about accountability and experience in school governance.