Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has chosen Devon Morales, Sr. as the Executive Director of the Office of Sports Administration. Mr. Morales, who was the principal of Roberto Clemente Community Academy, brings a wealth of experience to this role. He is a graduate of CPS and a U.S. Navy veteran, having served on the USS John F. Kennedy during the Persian Gulf War from 1990 to 1991.
CPS CEO Pedro Martinez praised Mr. Morales, noting his comprehensive understanding of the district. “Devon Morales embodies what CPS is all about—resilience, opportunity, and lifelong learning,” Martinez stated. Morales’ career includes history teaching at South Shore High School and several administrative roles in CPS. His history teaching at South Shore included leading the debate team to a city championship and helping a student secure a West Point scholarship.
After his military service, Morales pursued higher education, earning a degree in history education from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale in 1997, followed by a master’s degree in 2001 from Olivet Nazarene University, and a Type 75 certification in educational leadership from Keller Graduate School in 2007.
In his new position, Mr. Morales plans to collaborate with schools, coaches, and community partners to enhance the inclusivity, competitiveness, and supportiveness of CPS sports programs. He acknowledges the significant impact of sports on young people, crediting wrestling and football during his own time at Carl Schurz High School with shaping his life. “I’m honored to lead programming that empowers student-athletes to excel not just in the classroom and on the field, but in every aspect of life," Morales expressed.
Mr. Morales succeeds Mickey Pruitt, who will retire later this summer after 26 years in the Office of Sports Administration, including his recent position as acting executive director.