The Academy for Local Leadership launched its inaugural class in March ahead of Chicago’s shift to a partially-elected school board.

The four-year deal between the district and SEIU Local 73 covers school support staff, including special education classroom assistants, bus aides, and security officers.

Illinois has required high school students to complete the FAFSA in order to graduate since 2020. But state lawmakers want to waive the requirement for this school year.

Thirteen candidates from across Chicago joined a virtual forum hosted by the group CPS Parents for Buses, which organized earlier this year after the district canceled transportation for students at magnet and selective schools.

Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez said the district’s new budget formula is an “important milestone.” But at some schools, parent and educator concerns are starting to percolate.