Here’s what to know about the race in District 1A, including the candidates and their campaign platforms.
The district
District 1A is located on the Far Northwest Side of Chicago, roughly covering Edison Park, Forest Glen, Jefferson Park, Norwood Park and the western half of Dunning. By racial demographics, the population is approximately 68% white, 19% Hispanic, 9% Asian and 2% Black.
The district boasts 22 schools in all, with three early childhood centers, more than a dozen elementary schools and two high schools. The sole neighborhood high school is William Howard Taft High School, but it also maintains one charter school.
The school board member currently representing District 1A is Ed Bannon, appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson in 2024.
The candidates
Two candidates are running in District 1A: Incumbent Ed Bannon and his challenger, Margie Luczak. Luczak is a retired Chicago police officer.
Ed Bannon
The candidate did not respond to the questionnaire.
Margie Luczak
What are your top three priorities if elected?
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- Safe schools: All students deserve to feel safe in schools, with student resource officers to handle emergencies and mentor students.
- Academic excellence: Improve student outcomes, support parent choice and only use instructional materials aligned with research-proven methods.
- Financial excellence: Budget accountability and transparency.
Do you support continuing the moratorium on school closings? YES / NO
I am not for school closings, not automatically. I want to understand why schools are struggling and keep them accountable, hear from leadership and implement an improvement plan. If a school consistently fails, then it has to be accountable. Children need to be put first and have the proper resources.
Do you support the Chicago Board of Education’s decision this summer to budget an additional $150 million in state funding to reverse layoffs and prevent a spending freeze? YES / NO
We should look carefully at how existing resources are being used and redirect teachers and staff to schools where they are most needed. We also need to respect the CEO’s operational decisions and holding CPS leadership accountable for transparency. Let’s stop putting financial burdens on our future students.
Should Chicago Public Schools continue raising its property tax levy to the legal limit? YES / NO
Homeowners, working families and taxpayers already are carrying a significant burden. Chicago Public Schools must demonstrate that existing resources are being used efficiently and responsibly. I would prioritize transparency, stronger financial oversight and redirecting resources where they are needed most. Demand accountability for the money already received.