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Chicago’s public schools are guided by a network of governance bodies that help shape decisions, funding, and policy—from the classroom to the citywide level.
This page explains how those structures work together, who represents your voice, and how you can get involved in improving schools across the Far South Side and all of Chicago.
School governance is how students, parents, educators, and community members share power in shaping the direction of public education.
Each body, whether it’s your school’s Local School Council or the citywide Chicago Board of Education, plays a unique role in ensuring accountability, transparency, and community input.
Below you’ll find our School Governance Comparison Spreadsheet, which outlines the responsibilities and connections between
Chicago Board of Education – Oversees all Chicago Public Schools (CPS), approves budgets and policies, and hires the CPS CEO.
Local School Councils (LSCs) – School-based governing teams that approve the school budget, evaluate principals, and monitor school improvement plans (CIWP).
Community Action Councils (CACs) – Regional advisory groups that connect schools, families, and community organizations to strengthen education through partnerships and advocacy.
Parent Advisory Councils (PACs) – Title I school-based parent groups that guide how federal family-engagement funds are used and host parent leadership programs.
Additional Advisory Bodies – Student Voice Committee, Bilingual Advisory Committees (BACs/CBPAC), Citywide Parent Advisory Council (CPAC), Diverse Learners Council, Equity and Safety Advisory groups, and more.
Strong school governance ensures that decisions reflect the lived experiences of families, educators, and students. When we understand how each part fits together, we can:
Strengthen collaboration between schools and communities.
Hold decision-makers accountable for equity and transparency.
Empower parents and residents to lead from within.
There’s a seat for everyone at the table.
Here are a few ways to participate:
Attend a meeting — Most governance bodies meet monthly and welcome public comment.
Run for a seat — LSCs and the School Board have elections; CACs and PACs recruit members year-round.
Join the Far South CAC — Work with parents, educators, and partners across our region to improve local schools.
Stay informed — Sign up for CPS updates, attend a Citywide Parent Advisory or Equity meeting, or follow CPS Board sessions online.
Ready to take part in shaping our schools?
Join your local council, attend a meeting, or connect with the Far South CAC to learn more about how governance impacts our community’s children.
Together, we lead the change.
