Opponents of the plan to shutter 54 Chicago Public Schools may have found an ally.
Cook County president Toni Preckwinkle told the Chicago Sun-Times that she's concerned that Mayor Rahm Emanuel and CPS leadership didn't listen to recommendations in favor of keeping 13 of targeted schools open.
Those recommendations came from hearing officers in a series of public hearings held before the plan was revealed.
She agrees that some schools should close because of dropping enrollment, but isn't convinced that the closings plan will save a significant amount of money.
Preckwinkle was also critical of Rahm's treatment of teachers when he first came into office, but denies she has any interest in seeking his job.
CPS CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett told the Sun-Times that she's had numerous recent conversations with Preckwinkle and her concerns about the school closings were never brought up.
