### Entire Chicago Education Board Resigns Amid Budget Dispute

In an unprecedented development, all members of Chicago's Board of Education have resigned following a heated dispute between Mayor Brandon Johnson and the chief executive of Chicago Public Schools over next year's budget. The resignation of the seven board members, including board president Jianan Shi, comes during critical contract negotiations with the Chicago Teachers Union.

Mayor Johnson and Pedro Martinez, the chief executive of Chicago Public Schools, have been at odds over a plan to address a $1 billion budget shortfall for the district. Johnson's proposal included a $300 million high-interest loan, aimed at covering a $175 million pension for non-teacher staff members as well as funding salary increases for union members. However, Martinez vigorously opposed this plan and did not include it in the nearly $10 billion budget for 2025.

The conflict escalated when Mayor Johnson asked Martinez to resign in late September, according to reports from The Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ. The board initially supported Martinez’s stance, adding to the ongoing friction between the city's leadership and the school system.

As discussions continue, the sudden departure of the entire education board signals a period of uncertainty for Chicago's public schools amidst ongoing budgetary challenges and union contract talks. The future of the school district's financial health remains in the balance as city officials and education leaders seek common ground.