District 1 is situated on the Northwest and Far Northwest sides of Chicago. The district encompasses the Jefferson Park, Forest Glen, Norwood Park, Edison Park, Dunning and Portage Park neighborhoods, but also covers parts of Albany Park, North Park, Irving Park, Belmont Cragin and Montclare.
Here’s what to know about the race in the 1st District. For a look at how the elected school board will work and more on the races in the other districts, click here.
Who’s running?
There are two candidates running in the 1st District: Jennifer Custer and Michelle N. Pierre.
How much money has been raised?
In the 1st District, roughly $160,000 has been raised among the two candidates through Oct. 21.
Custer has out-raised her competitor, raking in roughly $104,000 for her campaign compared to Pierre’s $56,000.
What are the candidates’ campaign platforms?
Jennifer Custer
This candidate did not respond to this questionnaire by the time of publishing.
Michelle N. Pierre
What is your background in education?
Yes, I have worked extensively in education, serving as Chief Schools Officer for the LEARN Charter Network in Chicago on the West and South Side and Chief Academic Officer for Cleveland Metro Schools. In these roles, I focused on increasing graduation rates, enhancing academic performance and closing achievement gaps for underserved communities. Additionally, I have served as a principal and teacher for grades K-8, where I pioneered innovative programs such as the first One-Way Spanish Immersion program in southeast Washington, D.C. My 26-year career in education has allowed me to work closely with students, teachers and families to create data-driven solutions that improve outcomes across diverse populations.
Why are you running for a seat on the Chicago Board of Education?
I am running for a seat on the Chicago school board because I believe every student deserves a high-quality education, no matter their ZIP code or background. With my experience in leadership roles, I have seen the potential for transformative change when educational policies are designed and implemented with equity, transparency and a focus on student outcomes. I want to ensure that Chicago Public Schools prioritizes student success through strategic investment, community engagement and evidence-based practices, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.
How would you describe your campaign platform?
In a few words, I would describe my campaign platform as “NOT Chicago Politics.” My platform represents the constituents of my district because I am not beholden to any entity. I have always been focused on budget transparency, school choice and voice of my community. All three of these items speak to the needs of CPS and what needs to happen in order for us to create excellent options for all children.
What is the single most important issue facing CPS students?
The most critical issue facing CPS students is the persistent achievement gap, particularly for low-income students, English learners and students with special needs. While the district has made strides in some areas, disparities in access to quality education, resources and support services continue to prevent many students from reaching their full potential. We need to address these gaps with targeted interventions, robust support systems and an emphasis on equity to ensure that every student has a path to success.
Provide three to four key points you want voters to know about your campaign.
I will be an independent voice on the board which means that I will put children first in every decision. I have the experience, skills and knowledge to start day one to implement change on the board to get results for children. I have been grassroots from the beginning and supported by people who know me and know I can get results. Lastly, I will be the change that needs to happen for the children of Chicago.
To read this candidate’s questionnaire in its entirety, click here.
The candidate’s responses shown here have been edited for length, style and clarity.
