CHICAGO – Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the appointment of Sean Harden as President of the Chicago Board of Education, accompanied by a slate of experienced and passionate leaders whose collective expertise will guide Chicago’s public schools toward greater equity and opportunity for all students. 

“I am confident that these appointments are ready to enact my vision for a transformational school district. Utilizing the blueprint outlined in my transition report and the Chicago Board of Education’s 5-year Strategic Plan, these appointees will ensure every child in Chicago has access to the world-class education they deserve” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “As a former middle school teacher who fought for an elected school board, I am excited by this historic first step that will build a foundation for a more equitable and thriving public education system.” 

Sean Harden, a South Side native and former Deputy CEO of Chicago Public Schools, brings decades of experience in education, workforce development and community revitalization to his new role. Harden’s innovative leadership will drive forward the administration’s vision of equity and opportunity, drawing on his proven record of transformative community engagement and systemic change. 

He is joined by a team of dynamic appointees who reflect Chicago’s diverse communities and shared commitment to progress. Anusha Thotakura, a former bilingual middle school teacher, has dedicated her career to tackling the systemic challenges facing students and families. Her work advancing policies that support working families and her volunteer efforts as a middle school Debate en Español coach exemplify her deep commitment to Chicago’s youth. 

Ed Bannon, a lifelong Chicagoan, has consistently demonstrated steadfast leadership in guiding school governance and fostering parent engagement. With years of experience in local journalism, economic development and parenting three CPS graduates, Bannon brings a pragmatic yet compassionate approach to education. 

Karen Zaccor, a retired CPS teacher of 28 years and co-founder of Uplift Community High School, is a seasoned advocate for education justice. From securing funding for sustainable community schools to advancing policies that uplift underserved neighborhoods, Zaccor’s contributions to Chicago’s education landscape have been both impactful and enduring. 

Norma Rios-Sierra, an accomplished artist, activist and CPS parent, has used her creative talents and leadership skills to unite and empower communities in Logan Square and Hermosa. Her work organizing cultural celebrations and mentoring parents and youth underscores her dedication to inclusivity and community-driven solutions in education. 

Pastora Emma Lozano, a lifelong advocate for immigrant families and education equity, has spent decades leading transformative initiatives through organizations like Centro Sin Fronteras. A champion for bilingual education and immigrant rights, Lozano’s leadership bridges faith and activism to create lasting change for Chicago’s most vulnerable communities. 

“Each of these leaders brings a unique perspective and an unrelenting commitment to the success of Chicago’s students,” said Chicago Board of Education President Sean Harden. “Together, we will prioritize equity, amplify community voices and create opportunities that unlock the potential of every child in our city.” 

These appointees will join sitting members Debby Pope, Michilla Blaise, Frank Thomas and Olga Bautista. 

This announcement highlights the Johnson administration’s unwavering dedication to transformative leadership and its investment in building a public education system that prioritizes equity, access and opportunity for all.