Chicago’s Black Student Achievement Committee is meeting for the first time

The Chicago Black Student Achievement Committee convened for its inaugural meeting on Thursday evening to oversee the implementation of the district's five-year plan aimed at improving academic outcomes for Black students, who constitute about a third of the city's student population. The committee, composed of 15 members, has faced delays and controversy since its creation in July.

Committee co-chair Michilla Blaise expressed urgency, stating that advocates have been pressing for the committee to begin work. The committee will hold district leaders accountable for progress on the plan, which includes reducing punitive discipline measures and increasing the number of Black male teachers. However, some advocates have criticized the slow pace of implementation.

The committee's first priority will be to introduce members and lay the groundwork for its work. The committee will also receive updates from district officials on the progress made on the plan, including the hosting of a conference on Black student unions and securing philanthropic support for recruiting more Black teachers. Critics argue that the committee is stepping in too late to effectively address the disparities faced by Black students, particularly in graduation rates and disciplinary actions.

Nevertheless, supporters remain optimistic that the committee's efforts will resonate nationally and inspire similar initiatives in other districts.