Chicago Mayor backs removing police from high schools
Chicago Mayor Supports Removing Police from City’s High Schools
In a bold move, Chicago Democrat Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed his agreement with the city’s Board of Education regarding the removal of police officers from high schools. This decision comes as the Board aims to terminate the $10.3 million contract between the Chicago Police Department and the city’s board of education.
According to WBEZ, most of the board members who approved the school resource office contract have been replaced by Johnson’s appointees. This shift in leadership has paved the way for the Mayor’s support in removing police officers from schools.
Mayor Johnson’s Stance
Mayor Johnson has made it clear that he fully supports the Board of Education’s decision. He stated, “The Board of Education is moving in the direction that I do support.” He also emphasized that ending the intergovernmental agreement between Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Police Department holds no reservations for him.
The Sun-Times reported that Chicago Public School officials have already informed high school principals that police officers will not be present in schools starting next fall.
A Change of Heart
Interestingly, Mayor Johnson’s position on police officers in schools has evolved over time. Initially, as a mayoral candidate, he opposed their presence. However, after assuming office, he reversed his stance and suggested that the decision should be made by local school councils. Now, he has once again changed his position.
Community Demands
The push to remove police officers from schools gained momentum during the George Floyd protests in 2020. The Chicago Teachers’ Union joined the cause, advocating for police-free schools. They urged the reallocation of funds from the $33 million contract between CPS and CPD towards restorative justice coordinators, social workers, nurses, trauma supports, and other critical programs in schools.
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Recent reports have also indicated that the Chicago Board of Education is considering removing the authority of Local School Councils, composed of parents, teachers, and students, to decide on the presence of school resource officers. The Board is expected to vote on the contract renewal with the CPD this summer.
How does the presence of police in schools contribute to the disproportionate targeting and arrest of students of color?
Een the Chicago Police Department and the city’s board of education is a step towards justice and equity in the education system. Johnson believes that the presence of police officers in schools often leads to the criminalization of students, particularly students of color, and creates an environment of fear and distrust. Removing police officers from high schools is seen as a necessary move to create a safer and more supportive learning environment for all students.
Racial Disparity in School Policing
The decision to remove police officers from high schools also comes in the wake of nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice. Critics argue that the presence of police in schools disproportionately targets students of color and perpetuates the school-to-prison pipeline. Data from the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) show that black students make up only 37% of the student population but account for more than 70% of all school-based arrests. This glaring disparity highlights the urgent need to reassess the role of law enforcement in schools.
Mayor Johnson recognizes the impact of systemic racism in the education system and acknowledges that removing police officers from high schools is a crucial step towards addressing this issue. He believes that the resources allocated for school policing can be better utilized for mental health support, counselors, and after-school programs that promote positive learning environments and student well-being.
Support and Opposition
Mayor Johnson’s decision to support the removal of police officers from high schools has garnered both support and opposition from various stakeholders in the community.
Advocacy groups such as Voices of Youth in Chicago Education (VOYCE) and the Chicago Teachers Union have long called for the removal of police from schools. They argue that the presence of police officers does not contribute to a safe and nurturing learning environment, but rather exacerbates tensions and perpetuates a culture of surveillance and mistrust amongst students.
On the other hand, some parents and community members express concerns about the impact of removing police officers on school safety. They argue that police presence can help deter crime and ensure the safety of students and staff. However, Mayor Johnson reassures the community that the decision to remove police officers from high schools does not mean a complete absence of security measures. The focus will instead shift towards implementing restorative justice practices, increasing support staff, and fostering positive relationships between students and educators.
Next Steps
While Mayor Johnson’s support for removing police officers from high schools is a significant step towards reimagining school safety, the decision is not final. The termination of the contract between the Chicago Police Department and the city’s board of education requires further approvals and discussions within the school district. The Board of Education will need to allocate resources and develop alternative safety plans to ensure the well-being and security of students.
The move to remove police officers from high schools aligns with ongoing conversations about police reform and the need to address systemic racism in all areas of society. Mayor Johnson’s support signifies a commitment to forging a new path for education that prioritizes the well-being, equity, and success of all students.
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