Local Decision-Makers in Our Schools: A Baseline Report on Chicago’s Local School Councils

Local School Councils (LSCs) are a defining and unique aspect of Chicago Public Schools (CPS), playing an important role in school governance and community engagement since 1988. With Chicago’s public schools experiencing significant change, including the transition to an elected school board and the end of federal COVID-19 funding, strong LSCs are more important than ever in ensuring that school-level decisions are grounded in the needs of each community.

Given the connection LSCs have to principals, we have become increasingly engaged in their important work. This baseline report shares data from a citywide survey of nearly 560 LSC members, showcases stories of the positive impact LSCs have on school communities, and highlights areas where we plan to further support LSCs. 

This report is accompanied by a fact sheet that includes additional findings from the survey.