2026年芝加哥教育委员会选举：西南区7b选区选情

In the 2026 Chicago Education Commission election, two Latina women are competing for the 7b district seat in Chicago's southwest region. This area boasts the highest concentration of high-performing schools in the state, with many schools ranking in the top two statewide. Current commissioner Yesenia Lopez, who received support from the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and former U.S. Representative Jesus "Chuy" Garcia in 2024, will face off against Erika Diaz-Chavez, the Chicago Park District project manager.

Diaz-Chavez, who attended private schools and is supported by organizations like the Illinois Network of Charter Schools and The Urban Center, has faced challenges in her campaign. The Urban Center, a moderate political group advocating for charter schools and school choice between public and private institutions, has supported Diaz-Chavez.

SEIU, a major donor to Lopez's campaign, did not support Diaz-Chavez this time, despite its representation of CPS educational support staff and facilities personnel, who have diverged from CTU's political stance in recent years.

Both candidates aim to provide more special education resources to meet parents' concerns about their children not receiving adequate assistance. They also want to ensure CPS takes adequate measures to protect immigrant families amid increased immigration enforcement. However, they differ in their views on the Sustainable Community Schools project, which receives CTU support. Diaz-Chavez questions the project's effectiveness, while Lopez supports it but calls for continuous progress tracking.

Lopez, a graduate of Juárez Community Academy High School in Pilsen, has worked or volunteered at various schools in the southwest region. She recently served as the Latino community outreach coordinator for former Governor Pat McCrory's campaign. Her priorities include protecting immigrant families and increasing support for student mental health.

Diaz-Chavez, who has worked in the Park District for over two decades, believes the Education Commission should take more action to improve student academic performance. She aims to be an independent voice in the commission, ensuring decisions benefit all communities, not just those with similar viewpoints.