A Chicago school board investigation failed to uncover source of media leaks

“Sign up for Chalkbeat Chicago’s free daily newsletter to keep up with the latest news on Chicago Public Schools. A controversial monthslong investigation failed to uncover whether any school board members leaked the identities of CEO finalists and other information to the media. In November, school board President Sean Harden hired a law firm to find out who revealed the identities of two finalists for district CEO . He later expanded the scope of that inquiry to include a leak alerting a reporter to a December special meeting to adjust a property tax levy the day before it was announced. The investigation by Salvatore Prescott Porter & Porter has drawn criticism, particularly when it came to the special meeting, which was public and scheduled shortly before the winter holidays to discuss a tax increase. The board could not immediately provide the total cost of the inquiry. The disclosure of the CEO finalists — one of whom immediately distanced himself from the search — was seen at the time as a move that scuttled the national search process and led to additional months of seeking a top leader. Board members had signed nondisclosure agreements in a bid to encourage applications by leaders in other large districts, who might be reluctant to advertise their interest in leaving their current posts. Ultimately, the school board hired the interim CEO, Macquline King , whom members had enlisted to fill in last summer. Released by the board office Thursday evening, the law firm’s report says there was insufficient evidence to find the source of the leaks, noting the refusal by multiple board members to turn over their personal cell phones for examination. Two of the 21 board members, Che “Rhymefest” Smith and Ellen Rosenfeld, declined to cooperate with the investigation entirely and did not speak with the attorneys. Two reporters the firm asked to interview — WBEZ’s Sarah Karp and Paris Schutz, at FOX at the time — also refused. A search of more than 9,000 emails and other documents also did not uncover any clues. The report does include a summary of discussions the lawyers had with board members about the motivation behind the leaks. Members offered differing takes on what might have spurred the disclosures. But, the report said: “Whatever the motivation of the leaks, all witnesses agreed that the leaks made the Board look divided and untrustworthy. Relatedly, many witnesses commented on the tension and distrust within the Board between the appointed and elected members.” The report also discusses the possibility that someone other than a board member leaked the CEO finalists’ identities. Mila Koumpilova is Chalkbeat Chicago’s senior reporter covering Chicago Public Schools. Contact Mila at mkoumpilova@chalkbeat.org .

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