The Chicago Board of Education voted unanimously Friday night to terminate Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez.
The decision, reached during a closed session and announced shortly after 9 p.m., resulted in a 6-0 vote to fire Martinez without cause. As part of his termination, Martinez will receive six months of salary and a lump-sum payment. The board also announced modifications to his duties as part of the transition.
“Obviously, I’m disappointed by the board’s decision tonight. Leading the system that shaped me has been the opportunity of a lifetime and I am so proud of the work that we have done together. From record-high graduation rates, record-low dropout rates, the strongest post-pandemic reading recovery among large cities,” Martinez said. “If you want to move on from me, just honor the terms of my contract. That’s all I ever said. I never questioned any board who wants their own leader. But, it’s important because it’s not about me. It’s important that we have a smooth transition to a new CEO instead of throwing everything into chaos in the middle of the school year.”
“First of all, I have been very, very restrained this whole period, since all of this started. Never started by me, by the way… All I’ve ever asked, let me do my work, follow my contract. And so, Paris, that’s what is still going to happen. My contract is really clear. There are state laws. There are work policies, but more importantly, my contract is very clear. And if you haven’t met my lawyer, please get to know my lawyer,” Martinez said.
When asked about the reasons for Martinez’s firing, board members, including Frank Thomas, declined to comment.
Following the vote, Martinez addressed reporters, expressing his disappointment and frustration over the decision. The board has not yet shared further details on plans for interim leadership or the selection process for his replacement.
