Michael Scott Jr. facts for kids

Michael Scott Jr. is an American politician and business leader. He is currently a member of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. Before this, from 2015 to 2022, he was an alderman in the Chicago City Council. An alderman is like a city council member who helps make decisions for a specific part of the city, called a ward. Michael Scott Jr. represented the 24th ward in Chicago, which includes areas like North Lawndale and South Austin. He belongs to the Democratic Party.

Early Life and Work

Before he joined the City Council, Michael Scott Jr. worked in several important roles. He worked for the Chicago Park District, which manages parks and recreation. He also worked for Chicago Public Schools, helping with education, and for the Public Building Commission. He was also involved with After School Matters, a program that offers after-school activities for teens.

Serving on the Chicago City Council

Michael Scott Jr. was first elected as the alderman for the 24th ward in 2015. He took over from the previous alderman, Michael Chandler. As an alderman, he worked on different committees in the City Council. These committees focused on things like the city's budget, rules, economic growth, education, housing, and cultural events.

In 2019, during the election for Chicago's mayor, Scott supported Lori Lightfoot. After she became mayor, Michael Scott Jr. was a strong supporter and ally of Mayor Lightfoot in the City Council.

On May 24, 2022, Scott announced that he would leave the City Council. He decided to join Cinespace Chicago Film Studios. There, he became the "Head of Industry and Community Relations." His time as an alderman ended on June 3, 2022. Later, on June 21, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that she had chosen Scott's sister, Monique Scott, to take his place as alderman for the rest of his term. The City Council then confirmed her appointment. On July 15, 2022, Mayor Lightfoot also appointed Michael Scott Jr. to the Chicago Board of Education.

Cook County Commissioner

After the death of the commissioner Dennis Deer, Michael Scott Jr. was chosen to take his place. He became the commissioner for the 2nd district of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. Scott later won a special election to continue serving for the rest of Deer's term, which ends in December 2026.

About His Family

Michael Scott Jr.'s father, Michael Scott Sr., was also a public servant. He served as the President of the Chicago Board of Education when Richard M. Daley was the mayor. Michael Scott Jr. has a sister named Monique Scott, who also became an alderman.