An editorial from PoliticsEarly&Often discusses the city's new hiring initiative that gives Chicago Public School (CPS) graduates a preference when applying for firefighter positions:
The City of Chicago is implementing its CPS preference policy, which would provide an advantage to graduates of Chicago Public Schools over applicants from private or religious schools. While Mayor Rahm Emanuel may be aiming to create more opportunities for CPS students to join the Chicago Fire Department, this approach seems short-sighted and fails to address the broader issues of educational equity and long-term opportunity for all Chicago youth.
With declining public support for his education policies, it appears the mayor has once again overlooked meaningful ways to empower students across the city. Instead of offering special treatment to CPS graduates, the focus should be on strengthening the educational system so that all students—regardless of where they attend school—are prepared for success.
A better solution would be to expand career and technical education (CTE) programs within CPS. The current after-school training academy for police and firefighters could be transformed into a full in-school program, giving students a solid foundation in fire science and related fields. Research shows that CTE students have higher graduation rates—nearly 99% in some cases—and are more likely to stay engaged in their education.
To truly support students, the city should also implement a citywide mentoring plan that includes:
- A fire science course offered in CPS high schools, possibly with dual credit options from local community colleges;
- Internship opportunities at local fire stations to give students hands-on experience;
- A prep course available to all Chicago residents, including those from private schools, to help them succeed on the firefighter exam;
- Volunteer initiatives focused on fire prevention and community awareness.
At first glance, the CPS preference policy may seem neutral in terms of religion and race. However, a closer look reveals potential discrimination. Private schools in Chicago are largely parochial, particularly those run by the Archdiocese of Chicago. By favoring CPS graduates, the policy effectively disadvantages students from religious schools, violating the First Amendment’s protection of free exercise of religion.
Moreover, there are concerns about racial disparities. Although no formal study has been conducted, it is reasonable to suspect that private school students are predominantly white. This raises questions about whether the policy also leads to racial discrimination, which needs further investigation.
Ultimately, the mayor’s policy is not just ineffective—it risks deepening divisions and inviting costly legal challenges. It does little to improve CPS graduation rates or public safety, but everything to fuel controversy. A real, inclusive strategy would benefit everyone, not just a select group of students.
Thanks, Dan
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