FIGHTING FOR CHANGE: In the Ring With the CEdO
As negotiations for the first collective bargaining agreement between the Chicago Principals and Administrators Association (CPAA) and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) continue, the journey to improve conditions for school leaders has been anything but simple. While strides have been made in building stronger relationships, tensions still simmer beneath the surface. Many principals continue to navigate the frustrations of unclear communication, shifting policies, and the mounting pressures of district-wide changes. In the midst of this work, and before she announced plans to step down in June, Chief Education Officer Bogdana Chkoumbova sat down with CPAA to reflect on these challenges and share her vision for the district’s future. From her unique vantage point as an immigrant, educator, and long-serving CPS leader, she spoke candidly about the need for change, the promise of progress, and her unwavering belief in the power of principal leadership. Chkoumbova acknowledges that change can feel overwhelming, but she sees it as an essential part of fighting for growth. “People sometimes fear
challenges, Chkoumbova remains optimistic about the future, believing that CPS’s resilience— strengthened by the commitment of its leaders, principals, teachers, and students—will allow the district to emerge stronger. Every shift—every moment of uncertainty—is an opportunity for CPS to grow and thrive. Coming from humble beginnings as an immigrant from Bulgaria, Chkoumbova considers her role a blessing and feels deeply connected to the work she’s done. This sense of purpose- driven leadership has guided her throughout her career—from teacher, to principal, to network chief, and later Chief Education Officer (CEdO). She knows firsthand that the fight for meaningful change is never easy. It’s the same fight that principals step into every single day... championing their students, their schools, and their staff against overwhelming odds. Chkoumbova sees the CEdO role as the heart of CPS’s mission: supporting students. For her, leadership isn’t about standing on the sidelines... it’s about stepping into the ring, building real relationships with school leaders and district partners, and fighting alongside them for better outcomes and healthier environments for staff and students alike.
Principals need to be empowered partners in shaping the district’s direction.
change because it can feel like a lot,” she notes. But change, she adds, is natural... and for CPS, it’s about continuous improvement. Through all the
12 • CPAA QUARTERLY MAG | Q3 AND Q4 2025
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