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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Chicago Schools CEO Wants Predecessor To Cough Up Millions

cps.edu

The head of the Chicago Public Schools is demanding his predecessor reimburse the financially troubled school district about $10 million.

Barbara Byrd-Bennett pleaded guilty in October to her role in a scheme to steer $23 million in no-bid contracts to education firms for $2.3 million in bribes and kickbacks.

The Chicago Sun-Times reports schools CEO Forrest Claypool wants to use a state law allowing government agencies to go after corrupt individuals or contractors for triple the amount paid them.

In demanding approximately $10 million, Claypool is factoring in the $893,000 Byrd-Bennett earned in salary and benefits over three years, plus the kickback she was to get for the SUPES Academy contract.

Claypool said it is infuriating that Byrd-Bennett admitted she stole money during a time the district is suffering financial problems.

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