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The Chicago Board of Education’s Special Education Advisory Committee Convenes With Newly Appointed Members
October 23, 2026
The Chicago Board of Education’s Special Education Advisory Committee held its first meeting with newly appointed members on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, in the Board Room at 42 W. Madison St., Chicago.
Co-Chaired by Board Members Debby Pope and Therese Boyle, the committee convened to discuss oversight of special education services across Chicago Public Schools (CPS). The meeting included public comments and a presentation from Chief Joshua Long of the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD).
Following Long’s presentation, the committee engaged in a robust discussion focused on special education funding, staffing, professional learning, and student access to services. Committee members emphasized concerns about stagnant state and federal funding levels, workforce recruitment and retention challenges, case manager capacity, and equitable access to support for students with disabilities. Members also discussed expanding professional development for general education staff on inclusive practices and Least Restrictive Environment requirements, strengthening transition supports for students preparing to exit CPS services, and improving access to accommodations across academic and career-focused programs. The committee additionally examined opportunities to enhance communication among departments serving students with disabilities and expressed interest in future discussions on staffing recruitment initiatives and geographic staffing equity.
“This meeting marks an important new chapter in the committee’s work and our continued commitment to supporting students with disabilities and their families,” SEAC Co-Chairs Debby Pope and Therese Boyle said in a joint statement. “We are honored and excited to work alongside this dedicated and knowledgeable group of committee members. We look forward to building on the committee's work and advancing effective governance that supports the District’s implementation of an inclusive, equitable system for all learners.”
Watch the full meeting on demand on the CPS YouTube channel.
The Special Education Advisory Committee advises the Board on policies, programs and services that impact students with disabilities and their families. The committee supports the Board’s oversight of OSD by strengthening accountability, promoting stakeholder engagement and supporting continuous improvement.
In accordance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act, committee meetings are open to the public.
For information about upcoming SEAC meetings, including meeting dates and public participation opportunities, visit the Board's website at cpsboe.org.
About the Board
The Chicago Board of Education (Board), founded in 1840, is responsible for the governance, organizational, and financial oversight of Chicago Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the United States. The Board establishes policies, standards, goals, and initiatives to ensure accountability and provide a high quality, world-class education for the 21st century that prepares our students for success in college, work, and life. Visit CPSBOE.org/about/bios to read Board Members’ bios.
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