From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 30s
Yesenia Lopez wins Chicago School Board District 7b
Yesenia Lopez holds District 7b seat after defeating Erika Diaz-Chavez in Chicago School Board election.
In brief
Yesenia Lopez holds District 7b seat after defeating Erika Diaz-Chavez in Chicago School Board election. Yesenia Lopez retains District 7b seat in Chicago School Board election despite losing Chicago Teachers Union endorsement. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Election result
Yesenia Lopez retained District 7b seat in Chicago School Board election with 69% of votes as of early Wednesday morning.
Challenger
Erika Diaz-Chavez, a Chicago Park District project manager who attended private schools, challenged Lopez.
Campaign funding
Diaz-Chavez received major donations from Illinois Network of Charter Schools and Urban Center.
Lopez's support
Lopez had backing from Service Employees International Union Illinois State Council and Our Schools Chicago.
District 7b schools
District 7b includes 34 schools with 13% ranking in top 10% of Illinois schools.
School performance
73% of schools received 'commendable' designation while 13% were 'targeted' for improvement.
Student demographics
84% of students come from low-income families with half being English learners.
Special education
Both candidates pledged to increase special education resources for student needs.
Immigrant families
Both candidates committed to protecting immigrant families amid increased city immigration enforcement.
Sustainable Community Schools
Lopez supports Sustainable Community Schools program while Diaz-Chavez wants to evaluate it first.
Diaz-Chavez statement
Diaz-Chavez expressed pride in campaign and commitment to children, families, and community.
Lopez's background
Lopez first elected to school board in 2024 representing Southwest Side neighborhoods.
The short version
Yesenia Lopez retains District 7b seat in Chicago School Board election despite losing Chicago Teachers Union endorsement.
