Law Clerk, School Law Fall 2026

About the role

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) serves over 320,000 students in 500+ schools and employs over 44,000 people, most of them teachers. The district aims to provide every student with a world‑class learning experience that prepares them for college, career, and civic life, guided by six core values: student‑centered, whole child, equity, academic excellence, community partnership, and continuous learning. Each role supports the vision of a rigorous, joyful, and equitable learning experience for all students.

Responsibilities

• Review, analyze, prepare, and present evidence and witnesses for administrative hearings
• Prepare and conduct opening and closing statements during administrative hearings
• Describe the expectations of the administrative hearings to administrators, witnesses, parents, and students
• Conduct direct and cross‑examination of witnesses during administrative hearings
• Conduct factual and legal research for School Law attorneys

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university (required)
• Currently enrolled in Law School (required)
• Completed coursework in Evidence and/or Trial Advocacy (preferred)
• Licensed attorneys will not be considered for this position

Skills

• Ability to articulate a vision, set high standards, and effectively guide schools and principals in realizing expectations
• Ability to quickly analyze and solve issues that arise
• Ability to actively listen to administrators, students, and parents
• Strong communication skills (speaking – including presentations – listening, and writing)
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with a variety of constituent groups, including external partners and colleagues, to ensure the entire system operates effectively to support schools and principals
• Ability to define problems, analyze data, and outline valid conclusions and action steps

Benefits

This position is classified as a miscellaneous employee; therefore, no benefits are provided.

Pay

This is an unpaid externship designed for class credit in partnership with local law schools.

Schedule

The clerkship is part‑time and temporary. The ideal candidate should commit approximately 12‑14 weeks, with approximate term dates:

• Fall term: 9/21/2026 – 12/11/2026
• Spring term: 1/4/2027 – 5/21/2027

Posted: Sep 15, 2026, 9:19:46 AM • Location: Central‑42 West Madison Street (Law Office) • Position Type: Temporary • Overtime Status: Exempt • Residency Requirement: None