WGN-TV
Barbara Byrd-Bennett

Chicago Schools CEO quits (with Video)

June 1, 2015
Barbara Byrd-Bennett has been on a leave of absence while a federal investigation looks into allegations of conflict of interest

Chicago Schools CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett has resigned, more than a month after she took a leave of absence in the midst of a federal investigation into corruption.

WGN-TV reports that Byrd-Bennett notified the board in writing last week of her decision to resign, effective Monday. (Here is a copy of the letter.)

Byrd-Bennett took a leave of absence in April after it was revealed that federal authorities were looking into what role Byrd-Bennett's played in a contract the district granted to The SUPES Academy, a firm based in Wilmette, Ill., that trains principals and superintendents. Byrd-Bennett had worked as a coach for SUPES prior to joining the Chicago school system.

Byrd-Bennett began working for Chicago Public Schools in 2012 as chief education officer in 2012 and became CEO later that year after the resignation of Jean-Claude Brizard. Byrd-Bennett also has been a school administrator in Detroit, Cleveland and New York City.

VIDEO from WGN-TV:

Sponsored Recommendations

Providing solutions that help creativity, collaboration, and communication.

Discover why we’re a one-stop shop for all things education. See how ODP Business Solutions can help empower your students, school, and district to succeed by supporting healthier...

Building Futures: Transforming K–12 Learning Environments for Tomorrow's Leaders

Discover how ODP Business Solutions® Workspace Interiors partnered with a pioneering school system, overcoming supply chain challenges to furnish 18 new K–12 campuses across 4...

How to design flexible learning spaces that teachers love and use

Unlock the potential of flexible learning spaces with expert guidance from school districts and educational furniture providers. Discover how to seamlessly integrate adaptive ...

Blurring the Lines in Education Design: K–12 to Higher Ed to Corporate America

Discover the seamless integration of educational and corporate design principles, shaping tomorrow's leaders from kindergarten to boardroom. Explore innovative classroom layouts...