Dr. Macquline King Starts Tenure as Interim CPS CEO/Superintendent
23 June 2025
CHICAGO - Dr. Macquline King begins her first full week as Interim CEO/Superintendent of Chicago Public Schools (CPS) following her first day in office last Friday. A respected and visionary leader in education, Dr. King brings decades of experience transforming urban school systems and advancing equity-focused policies.
As Interim CEO and Superintendent, Dr. King brings her lifelong dedication to CPS with a focus on transparency, equity, and student-centered leadership. Her vision is rooted in ensuring every student has access to the tools and opportunities needed to thrive. Raised on the city’s South Side, Dr. King's educational foundation began at Oakenwald North Elementary and the Metropolitan School of Studies. As a teen mother, she overcame significant challenges, proving that education can be a transformative force for individuals and communities alike.
“I wish Macquline the very best in her new role as Interim CEO/Superintendent of Chicago Public Schools,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “With more than 25 years of service to CPS—as a teacher, principal, and dedicated advocate for our students—Macquline brings a deep, firsthand understanding of our school communities. I’m confident she will lead with both compassion and conviction as we work to usher in a new era where every child, in every neighborhood - regardless of their zip code - receives the world-class education they deserve. There is no one better equipped to manage the challenges and seize the opportunities ahead, and I look forward to working alongside her to deliver for our families.”
Dr. King began her academic journey at City Colleges of Chicago and earned a degree in Teacher Education from National Louis University. Her commitment to students led her to become a master teacher and National Board Certified educator, supporting the growth of novice teachers and championing classroom success.
After 12 years of teaching, Dr. King entered school leadership through the prestigious New Leaders Principal Preparation Program. As principal of Dumas Elementary in Woodlawn, she led with vision and compassion, securing technology grants and guiding the school through the emotional challenges of the 2013 CPS school closures. Later, at Courtenay Elementary—a designated Welcoming School—she continued to uplift students, launched a gifted magnet cluster program, earned her gifted endorsement, and led a $1.2 million fundraising effort for an inclusive playground.
Her leadership was further recognized through her selection as a Cahn Fellow for Distinguished Educators and her completion of a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Superintendent License.
In 2022, Dr. King transitioned to public service as the City of Chicago’s Senior Director of Education Policy (PK–16), where she led major education policy efforts. Her work included reactivating the UNCF Scholarship Campaign in Chicago, which awarded over $150,000 in scholarships to graduating students, and helping secure $41 million to transform schools in North Lawndale into innovative science and arts hubs.
“Today marks Dr. King’s first day as Interim CEO/Superintendent of Chicago Public Schools—but she brings to this role a lifetime of dedication to public education and a deep commitment to the 325,000 students who rely on our District every day,” said CPS Board President Sean B. Harden. “As a former teacher, principal, and most recently, trusted advisor to Mayor Brandon Johnson, Dr. King brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our District, and a proven record of leadership rooted in collaboration, equity, and excellence. “We are confident in her ability to guide CPS through this pivotal transition and to keep students and families at the center of every decision.”
Interim CEO/Superintendent King will join the Chicago Board of Education for the June Board meeting next Thursday afternoon. Now, as Interim CEO and Superintendent, Dr. King brings her lifelong dedication to CPS with a focus on transparency, equity, and student-centered leadership.
“I am honored to continue my service to our students and families while leading the District through the challenges ahead,” said Dr. King. “As a District, we are committed to continuously improving the quality of education for all children and I am already looking forward to welcoming them back on August 18 for a successful 2026-26 school year.”