PAUL G. VALLAS*
During his tenure as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools from 1995 to 2001, Mr Vallas led an effort to reform the school system, and his work was cited by President Bill Clinton for raising test scores, balancing the budget, and instituting several new programs included mandatory summer school, after school programs, and expanding alternative, charter, and magnet schools.
The position of CEO of the CPS was created by Mayor Richard M. Daley after he successfully convinced the Illinois State Legislature to place CPS under mayoral control. Vallas had previously directed the budget arm of the Illinois State Legislature and served as budget director for Daley.
*As with any "movers" in society and government, Mr Vallas' career is not without a few plot twists here and there. All the more reason to buy a Gala Ticket to find out what he brings to the table as Governor Quinn's running mate.