Patrick C. Watson

Patrick Watson is a Chicago Public Schools graduate and former accountant who works as a lead legislative aide to 9th Ward Ald. Anthony Beale.¹ His first priority is balancing the district's budget, which he says faces a deficit each year.¹ He wants the district to look internally for savings before asking for more money, and he is open to school closures if they help reduce the deficit.¹

His campaign says he would direct funding to classrooms and keep budget decisions transparent.² He proposes strengthening school safety through protocols and input from parents and local organizations.² Watson has said the Chicago Teachers Union has too much influence over Chicago Public Schools.³