Chicago Public Schools CEO Macquline King testified before the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce, addressing concerns about the district’s policies on gender identity, sex education, and parental rights. King emphasized that CPS values parental input and is in compliance with Illinois state law.

Committee Hearing

The hearing was part of an ongoing saga that has placed CPS under federal scrutiny for its efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. King was subpoenaed to testify in person, and her appearance was met with frustration from some Republican lawmakers who felt she was not providing direct answers to their questions.

King defended CPS’ handling of May Day, which included lessons on civic engagement and labor, as well as field trips to a downtown pro-labor rally. She emphasized that the day of instruction was not politically slanted and that the curriculum was decided at the school level.

Parental Rights

The committee also raised concerns about Chicago’s sex education curriculum, which teaches about puberty blockers, and school staff calling students by a different pronoun or name than they use at home. King acknowledged the importance of parental input and stated that CPS is committed to working with parents to ensure that students receive a well-rounded education.

Democratic committee members used their time to bring up other issues in education, such as budget cuts, immigration enforcement, and school shootings. They also apologized to King for some of the fiery statements made by Republican lawmakers.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.