Jennifer Custer, a member of the Chicago school board for the Northwest Side, is running for the position of school board president. She has been critical of the May 1 "day of civic action" for the district, arguing it has caused confusion among families and logistical challenges. Custer was elected with the support of the the Chicago Teachers Union in 2024, but has frequently broken with the union in key votes. She announced her candidacy in March and plans to streamline board governance, stabilize district finances and focus on student learning. Her political action committee has raised about $44,000 since summer, largely using childcare expenses.