Federal Probe Targets CPS Black Student Program

The U.S. Department of Education, under the Trump administration, has launched a Title VI civil rights investigation into Chicago Public Schools' (CPS) Black Students Success Plan after a complaint from the conservative group Defending Education. The complaint alleges that the plan, which specifically allocates resources to Black students, constitutes racial discrimination since students of all races are reportedly struggling academically. Federal officials assert that public funds must benefit all students, while CPS and local advocates argue the plan is necessary to address historic inequities. The Illinois State Board of Education and Chicago officials have defended the plan as legal and pledged to contest any potential loss of federal funding. The investigation is part of a broader federal effort to scrutinize race-based diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in education. The outcome could have significant implications for similar programs nationwide.