Chicago School Board Members May Get Paid Under New Bill

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new bill in the Illinois House would pave the way for Chicago Board of Education members to receive compensation, a change advocates say could broaden representation as the board transitions to a fully elected body. Currently, board members serve on a volunteer basis, which can mean upward of 25 hours per week attending meetings, reviewing documents, visiting schools, and hosting office hours, making it difficult for some to juggle the demands with personal and professional responsibilities.

Why it matters

Providing compensation for Chicago school board members could encourage a more diverse pool of candidates to run for the positions, ensuring the board is representative of the communities it serves. This is especially important as the board transitions to a fully elected body, which advocates believe will further strengthen community engagement and oversight.

The details

The bill would allow Chicago school board members to receive compensation, which advocates say could make the positions more accessible to a wider range of individuals. Currently, two board members have left full-time jobs to serve, while others say it's challenging to balance the role with other responsibilities. Proponents of the bill believe compensation could broaden representation on the board as it shifts to a fully elected structure, strengthening community engagement and oversight.

• The Illinois House is considering a new bill that would allow Chicago school board members to receive compensation.
• Chicago's school board is transitioning to a fully elected body.

What’s next

The Illinois House will consider the bill that would allow Chicago school board members to receive compensation.