Chicago Mayor Reportedly Seeking to Replace CPS CEO Pedro Martinez

Chicago Teachers Union requests external mediation in contract negotiations amid leadership uncertainty

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson reportedly seeking to oust Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro MartinezPhoto byScreen Capture/Youtube Video [Creator]

CHICAGO - Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration is reportedly working to remove Chicago Public Schools (CPS) CEO Pedro Martinez from his position, according to sources familiar with the situation. The potential leadership change comes amid ongoing contract negotiations between the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and CPS, with the union now calling for an external mediator to assist in resolving their disputes.

On Thursday, sources confirmed to ABC7 that Mayor Johnson's administration is attempting to push Martinez out of his role as CPS CEO. Martinez, who has been in the position since 2021, is currently serving under a five-year contract with two years remaining. Any modification to his employment status would require approval from the Chicago Board of Education.

The efforts to oust Martinez reportedly stem from tensions between his office and the CTU, particularly regarding financial strategies to support teacher salary increases. Sources indicate that Martinez's reluctance to endorse high-interest loans to fund these raises has fueled discontent among union leaders, who are now pushing for his removal.

Despite the rumors of his potential departure, Martinez and Mayor Johnson both attended the opening of the Rainbow PUSH Convention on Thursday. However, Mayor Johnson declined to comment on the matter when approached by reporters.

"As you know, I don't discuss personnel issues or personnel matters publicly. I don't find that to be productive," Johnson stated when asked about the situation.

The apparent move to replace Martinez has sparked concern among local leaders and educators. Alderman Matt O'Shea expressed surprise at the possibility, noting the progress Martinez has made in improving schools within his ward, particularly in addressing the needs of special education students.

"Frankly, I'm shocked," O'Shea said. "The investment that Pedro Martinez has made, he has been collaborative, he has had an open door, he has been responsive...those investments. I have personally worked with him on for advocating for this vulnerable population."

Virginia Hiltz, principal of Saucedo Elementary, also voiced her concerns about the potential leadership change. She emphasized the positive impact Martinez's initiatives have had on her students, particularly in implementing school-based roles such as interventionists and lead coaches.

"My concern is the school-based roles that he's brought here, the interventionists, lead coaches...real things making real differences in the education of kids are going to be lost quickly," Hiltz said.

While the controversy surrounding Martinez's position unfolds, the Chicago Teachers Union announced on Thursday that it is seeking an outside mediator to assist in its ongoing contract negotiations with CPS. The union's request comes after months of public negotiation sessions, which began in June.

In a statement, CPS expressed its commitment to continuing negotiations with the union, emphasizing the importance of reaching an agreement that benefits all stakeholders.

"Chicago Public Schools (CPS) will continue to work with our partners at the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) toward reaching an agreement that is in the best interest of our students, staff, and community," the statement read. "Mediation is designed to help facilitate productive discussion and bridge disagreements. We believe this process will be instrumental in finding common ground and moving forward with an agreement that supports our educational goals, including protecting our students, classrooms, and staff."