Charles Mayfield

COO

Chicago Public Schools

Charles Mayfield’s career is a testament to transformative leadership within the field of
education, blending operational expertise with a deep commitment to equity and community empowerment. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Chicago Public Schools (CPS), the nation’s fourth-largest district, Mayfield oversees a vast array of essential services—ranging from capital planning and facilities management to student safety, nutrition, and technology—across over 800 sites, supporting approximately 320,000 students. His influence is most felt in his efforts to ensure equitable access to quality learning environments, particularly for students in underserved communities.

Under his leadership, CPS has made significant strides in supporting students’ physical, behavioral, and emotional well-being. Initiatives serving 50 million meals annually, transportation services for approximately 20,000 students, and a district-wide push to close the digital divide
reflect Mayfield’s focus on holistic student success. His recent support for AI-driven learning tools highlights his forward-thinking approach to integrating technology into education, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all students.

Mayfield’s commitment to diversity and equity extends beyond student services. His work to diversify CPS’s procurement portfolio resulted in 48% diverse contract participation, contributing to a more inclusive economic ecosystem within the district’s budget. These efforts align with
Mayfield’s broader vision of creating systemic change that uplifts not only the students but also the communities they reside in.

Before his role as COO, Mayfield’s tenure as Chief Procurement Officer at CPS saw him driving cost efficiencies and expanding student programs, generating $21 million in cost avoidance while enhancing career pathways for students in trade programs. His prior experience with the Chicago Housing Authority also underscores his capacity for leadership in community development, where he oversaw initiatives that significantly increased employment opportunities
for residents and contributed to the rehabilitation of affordable housing units.
Mayfield’s work has garnered recognition, including the 2023 Chicago Defender Men of
Excellence Award and COO of the Year honors, illustrating the broad impact of his contributions to both education and public service. His roles on various boards and in community organizations further reflect his dedication to fostering positive change, making him a key figure in advancing equity in educational and community settings.

For Mayfield, education is not just a career—it’s a calling. His mission is to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive in an environment that nurtures their full potential. His leadership in CPS reflects his lifelong belief in the power of education to transform lives, build stronger communities, and create a more equitable future for all.