Urban Center Founder Visits Elections Class

Juan Rangel recently spent time with seniors in Andy Bigelow’s Elections 2024 class to share more about his work with The Urban Center.

Rangel was the CEO of Chicago’s United Neighborhood Organization Charter Schools, the largest Hispanic charter school program in the nation, until his resignation in December 2013. He has since founded The Urban Center, a centrist organization attempting to back candidates for the Chicago Public Schools board who share their values for a more moderate (not liberal) agenda for CPS. 

Prior to Rangel’s class visit, Bigelow asked students to review The Urban Center’s website, information on the Chicago school board election and Rangel’s prior work with UNO Charter Schools so they could make the most of the in-class experience.

In his presentation, Rangel spoke about his personal history and professional trajectory, which led him to his current position at The Urban Center. He also shared his personal criticisms of Mayor Brandon Johnson. In addition to influencing the outcome of the upcoming school board elections, members of his organization have their eye on 2027 and are vetting candidates to endorse in the mayoral election that year.

Rangel then welcomed questions from the students and provided honest and detailed answers. The class ended with an opportunity to listen, learn and ask questions about Rangel’s thoughts as to the fate of the City of Chicago’s public school system and its mayor.

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