The Education Department has opened a Title VI investigation into Chicago Public Schools over allegations of race-based discrimination.  

The Trump administration says the Chicago district is accused of discriminating against students on the basis of race with its 2023-2024 “Black Students Success Plan,” which focused on measures to help Black students struggling in school.  

“Chicago Public Schools have a record of academic failure, leaving students from all backgrounds and races struggling and ill-prepared to meet the challenges and enjoy the rewards of contemporary American life,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor.  

“Rather than address its record honestly, CPS seeks to allocate additional resources to favored students on the basis of race,” he added.  

The complaint was filed by Defending Education, a conservative group, after district leaders came together to focus on ways to improve Black students’ academics.  

The department noted that during the meetings regarding the Black Students Success Plan the working group pointed out that students of all races were in fact struggling academically in the district.

“The Trump-McMahon Department of Education will not allow federal funds, provided for the benefit of all students, to be used in this pernicious and unlawful manner. To CPS, I say this: Every American student deserves access to a quality education, and the Trump Administration will fight tirelessly to uphold that ideal and ensure all students are treated equally under law,” Trainor said.  

The Hill has reached out to the district for comment.