CPS Reinstates York Principal After Thorough Investigation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, November. 9, 2017

CHICAGO – Chicago Public Schools officials today are reinstating Principal Sharnette Sims to Consuella B. York Alternative High School, at the Cook County Jail, after a thorough investigation found that the accusations made in a report by the CPS Inspector General were unsubstantiated and unfounded. The investigation also found broad support for her leadership of the school and the quality of her service to the students.

“Principal Sims is owed our thanks for her efforts at York, as well as a sincere apology for the blight on her reputation,” said CPS CEO Forrest Claypool. “Dr. Sims has devoted herself to helping young people at risk and has done remarkable work under difficult circumstances. We are pleased to reinstate her as Principal of Consuella B. York Alternative High School, and we hope she can continue her great work serving our most vulnerable children.”

CPS officials met with Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart last week to thank him for his assistance in the investigation and to share the findings. CPS and the Sheriff had productive and cooperative conversations about improving communication channels so that both organizations can improve children’s educational outcomes. Dr. Sims will return to York today.

The investigation included a review of emails for the past five years, nearly five dozen interviews, extensive data entry review and meetings with representatives from the Department of Corrections.

Numerous errors were found in the initial report, and are described in detail in the attached Memorandum, including an Executive Summary.

Chicago Public Schools serves 371,000 students in 646 schools. It is the nation’s third-largest school district.

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