Chicago Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Chicago Public Schools has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and board relations.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Chicago Public Schools is dedicated to providing a high-quality public education for every child, in every neighborhood, preparing each for success in college, career, and civic life.

Leadership Roles at Chicago Public Schools

  • Chief Executive Officer - Macquline King
  • Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer - Walter Stock
  • Chief Operating Officer - Charles Mayfield
  • President - Owen Cummins
  • Deputy Chief of Staff, To The Board of Education - Lauren Pett
  • Macquline King - Chief Executive Officer

    Macquline King, the Chief Executive Officer at Chicago Public Schools, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the district's educational initiatives. Overseeing all major departments, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the mission to provide high-quality public education across all neighborhoods. This leadership role involves driving innovation in curriculum development and pedagogical approaches to prepare students for college, career, and civic life. By fostering collaboration among educators and administrators, Macquline King enhances the district's capacity to meet evolving educational needs. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on elevating student outcomes and strengthening the district's position as a leader in urban education.
    Macquline King

    Walter Stock - Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer

    Walter Stock, the Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer at Chicago Public Schools, oversees the fiscal health and financial strategy of the district. Managing budgets, financial planning, and investment activities, the Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer ensures the responsible allocation of resources to support educational programs. This vital position involves maintaining financial transparency and accountability, crucial for public trust and operational sustainability. By implementing sound financial management practices, Walter Stock supports the district's mission to provide high-quality education. The Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer's expertise is instrumental in securing the financial stability necessary for Chicago Public Schools to achieve its long-term objectives and prepare students for success.

    Charles Mayfield - Chief Operating Officer

    Charles Mayfield, the Chief Operating Officer at Chicago Public Schools, manages the essential operational infrastructure supporting the district's educational mission. Overseeing facilities, transportation, and technology services, the Chief Operating Officer ensures efficient resource allocation and service delivery across all schools. This critical role involves optimizing operational processes to create a conducive learning environment for students and staff. By driving operational excellence, Charles Mayfield directly contributes to the district's ability to execute its strategic goals. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to managing large-scale projects and ensuring the smooth functioning of daily school operations, thereby supporting the core objective of preparing students for future success.

    Owen Cummins - President

    Owen Cummins, the President at Chicago Public Schools, leads the strategic direction and overall governance of the educational institution. As President, Owen Cummins champions the district's mission to deliver high-quality education, fostering an environment where every student can thrive and prepare for future endeavors. This leadership position involves engaging with stakeholders, advocating for educational policies, and ensuring the effective implementation of strategic initiatives across the district. By driving a culture of continuous improvement, Owen Cummins strengthens the district's commitment to academic excellence and student success. The President's vision guides the organization toward achieving its goals of preparing students for college, career, and civic life.

    Lauren Pett - Deputy Chief of Staff, To The Board of Education

    Lauren Pett, the Deputy Chief of Staff, To The Board of Education at Chicago Public Schools, provides critical support and strategic counsel to the Board of Education. Managing key initiatives and ensuring effective communication between the Board and district leadership, the Deputy Chief of Staff, To The Board of Education facilitates informed decision-making. This role involves coordinating board meetings, preparing essential documentation, and overseeing the implementation of board directives. By streamlining administrative processes, Lauren Pett enhances the Board's capacity to govern effectively and advance the district's mission. The Deputy Chief of Staff, To The Board of Education's dedication ensures that the Board's strategic priorities are translated into actionable plans for educational improvement.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Chicago Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Chicago Public Schools?
    Chicago Public Schools is led by Macquline King (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Walter Stock (Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer) and Charles Mayfield (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Chicago Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Chicago Public Schools includes leaders such as Macquline King (Chief Executive Officer), Walter Stock (Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer), Charles Mayfield (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Chicago Public Schools have?
    Chicago Public Schools has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Chicago Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Chicago Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Treasurer & Acting Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Deputy Chief of Staff, To The Board of Education.