Chicago Public Schools’ Black Student Success Plan is off to an uncertain start, despite support from within the district.
Although the plan has garnered positive feedback from CPS educators, parents and students, the program’s compliance with new federal guidelines is being challenged.
The Trump administration said that schools using Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies like programs aimed at a specific race would put them at risk of losing federal funding.
Read more: Chicago Public Schools Continues Its Hub Stop Rollout Expanding Busing for Students
Parents Defending Education, an organization fighting against progressive ideology in schools, has already responded to the new plan, reports Chalkbeat Chicago. The organization filed a civil rights complaint to the Department of Education on the grounds that the Black Student Success Plan is discriminatory.
District leaders have stated that the Black Student Success Plan is in compliance with an Illinois state law enacted this year which created a committee to improve Black student achievement.
What is the Black Student Success Plan?
One of the priorities of the district’s new Strategic Five-Year Plan is the Black Student Success Plan. Data show that Black students in CPS schools have historically been furthest from educational opportunities and outcomes, says the district.
To address this inequity, CPS created the Black Student Success Plan launched on February 21, 2025.
With feedback from students, parents, educators and community stakeholders, the plan focuses on strategies like culturally responsive curriculum, retention of Black educators and a focus on identity, culture and voice.
Goals of the Black Student Success Plan
- Double the number of Black male educators hired and improve Black teacher retention.
- Accelerate growth and attainment for Black students to close opportunity gaps from early learning through high school across all core academic areas.
- Reduce disciplinary actions against Black students, ensuring proportionality with their representation in the student population.
- Increase the percentage of classrooms utilizing culturally responsive practices and teaching about Black history and culture.
- Foster a strong sense of belonging among Black students so they feel valued and included in their school communities.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
