About the job
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is an innovative and rapidly advancing school district dedicated to fostering the success of over 300,000 students across more than 600 schools. With a workforce exceeding 45,000, we are committed to providing every student with a world-class education that prepares them for college, careers, and active citizenship. Our ambitious goals are driven by a dedication to equity, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have access to essential resources for their educational journey. Guided by six core values—student-centered, whole child, equity, academic excellence, community partnership, and continuous learning—we strive to create a rigorous, joyful, and equitable learning environment for every student.
Job Summary:
As the Chief Health Officer (CHO) of Chicago Public Schools, you will play a pivotal role as the lead health and medical authority within the district, operating under the guidance of the Chief Education Officer (CEdO) and collaborating closely with the Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). You will lead the Office of Student Health and Wellness (OSHW), overseeing a diverse team dedicated to enhancing student health and wellness across the district.
Your responsibilities will include partnering with the Chief of the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) to manage the CPS School Nursing Unit, which comprises over 600 staff members and a budget exceeding $50 million. This unit’s goal is to ensure that every school has a full-time nurse available daily to meet the healthcare needs of all CPS students, including those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans. The CHO will also collaborate with CDPH to further the Healthy CPS initiative, aligning it with the city’s Healthy Chicago 2025 framework, which sets forth public health objectives for the community. This influential role encompasses guiding health and wellness policies, managing health data, improving student access to healthcare services, and facilitating family enrollment in public health benefits such as Medicaid and SNAP, ultimately fostering a culture of health throughout the district and city. This is a full-time, exempt position compensated on a salaried basis.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define and promote the vision and mission of OSHW, providing leadership and direction to the OSHW leadership team.
- Work collaboratively with various CPS offices, including Social Emotional Learning, Nutrition Support Services, Safety and Security, Innovation and Incubation, and Network Support to implement Healthy CPS initiatives aimed at enhancing student health and well-being.
- Establish partnerships with CDPH to prioritize and integrate public health objectives into school health programming.

