Jessica Biggs files paperwork to run for Chicago school board in District 6; Submits nearly 1,700 signatures to claim top spot in November 5th ballot

CHICAGO - Jessica Biggs, candidate for Chicago school board in the newly created District 6, filed petitions yesterday morning with the Chicago Board of Elections to secure the coveted first ballot position in the Nov. 5th election.  Arriving early on the first day of filing, Biggs turned in nearly 1,700 verified signatures from registered voters in District 6; only 1,000 are required to claim a spot on the ballot.

"It's been a privilege to meet with voters and learn what they want and expect from their elected school leaders," said Biggs. "I believe strongly that serving in public office means listening to community voices, crafting solutions based in evidence, and being held accountable. I'm looking forward to sharing that message during this campaign and learning how I can be a more effective advocate for our city's schools."

A former CPS teacher and school principal, Biggs declared her candidacy in late May and has spent the last several weeks engaging with residents of the district, which spans from Greater Grand Crossing and West Woodlawn in the south, to Wicker Park and Bucktown on the northwest side.  With an all-volunteer team, Biggs became the first 6th district candidate to garner more than 1,000 signatures earlier this month; she has since secured the endorsements of Alderwoman Pat Dowell in Chicago's 3rd Ward and Alderman Lamont Robinson in the 4th.

"After 30 years of a fully appointed school board, this is a historic opportunity for voters to weigh in and help shape the future of our city's schools," Biggs continued. "As a lifelong educator, I couldn't sit back and be a spectator. The stakes are too high."

For more information, interviews, or to get involved with Jessica Biggs’ campaign, please visit www.biggs4chicago.com or contact biggs4chicago@gmail.com.