In response to claims that a new program aimed at enhancing academic achievement and retention among Black kids and teachers is in violation of federal law, the U.S. Education Department is looking into Chicago Public Schools.
Based on a February complaint filed by the nonprofit Parents Defending Education, now known as Defending Education, the investigation was announced Tuesday.
The complaint claimed that the school system’s academic-achievement program for Black students violates Title VI of the Civil Rights Act by racially discriminating against students.
Apparently, this is the first time the government has looked into a public school system for implementing a racially oriented program since President Donald Trump took office in January.
In the 2023–2024 academic year, 35% of the 321,000 pupils in the district—the fourth largest in the country—were Black.
Through the Black Student Success Plan, Chicago Public Schools aimed to distribute resources in a way that favored children based on their race, according to Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor.
“Chicago Public Schools have a record of academic failure, leaving students from all backgrounds and races struggling and ill-prepared to meet the challenges and enjoy the rewards of contemporary American life,” Trainor stated.
In educational programs that receive federal support, Title VI forbids discrimination on the grounds of race, color, or national origin. According to the government, schools that violate the legislation may forfeit federal funding.
On Wednesday, the school administration stated, “Chicago Public Schools does not comment on pending or ongoing litigation.”
The Black Student Success Plan, according to school authorities, was created to guarantee that students had an equal educational experience.
During Black History Month in February, the school system unveiled the Black Student Success Plan, stating that its goals were to increase academic performance and attract and retain teachers and leaders.
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When the project was announced, Chicago Public Schools Chief Education Officer Bogdana Chkoumbova stated, “The District is committed to removing these obstacles and calls upon the community to support efforts to better serve Black students.”
According to the complaint filed by Defending Education, “members oppose discrimination on the basis of race and political indoctrination in America’s schools” and the proposal is “racially exclusive.”
On Wednesday, the group was not available for comment.
According to school authorities, the initiative was set to begin this spring with the intention of reducing educational gaps and encouraging interaction with Black students and families.
According to Stacy Davis Gates, president of the Chicago Teachers Union, the probe was an effort to impede the school system’s advancement.
“Rather than using the Department to create opportunities for students, Trump and (Education Secretary Linda E.) McMahon appear determined to transform it into a debt collection agency and a vehicle to dismantle the civil rights protections that support students and their families,” she stated.
