Education Department opens investigation into Chicago Public Schools

Main Idea: The Education Department has opened a civil rights investigation into Chicago Public Schools over a program meant to support Black students and staff.

Key Points:

• The probe stems from a complaint by Defending Education, which says the Black Student Success Plan is racially discriminatory.
• Federal officials say the program may have favored students based on race and could violate Title VI, which bans race-based discrimination in federally funded schools.
• Chicago Public Schools says the plan was meant to improve academic results, close gaps, and create a fairer learning experience.
• The investigation adds pressure on the district, which serves about 321,000 students, and could put federal funding at risk if violations are found.