CHICAGO (WLS) — Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez is a step closer to leading Massachusetts schools.

The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education voted on Tuesday to recommend he be the next Massachusetts commissioner of elementary and secondary education.

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The board will now send its recommendation to the Massachusetts secretary of education, who must give final approval.

Martinez will leave CPS at the end of the school year after being fired by the school board.

Martinez issued a statement, saying, “I am deeply honored to be selected as the next Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. I am profoundly grateful to the Massachusetts Board for their trust in my leadership and for recognizing the work we’ve done in Chicago, as well as in San Antonio and Nevada.

At the same time, Chicago-and Chicago Public Schools-will always hold a special place in my heart. This city welcomed my family and me when we emigrated from Mexico, and CPS became the foundation of my personal and professional journey. It was in CPS classrooms that I discovered my passion for learning, developed fluency in English, and uncovered a love for math that would shape my future. I was forever influenced by the rich diversity and resilience of this District, and it has been the greatest privilege of my life to return home and serve as its CEO.

Over the past four years, I’ve had the honor of working alongside dedicated educators, families, and partners to support historic academic progress and create more equitable opportunities for our students. I am committed to finishing the school year strong here and will leave CPS in mid-June with a deep sense of pride and optimism for its future, knowing the District is in strong hands and moving in the right direction.

As I move forward, I remain committed to the values that have guided my life: equity, opportunity, and a belief in the limitless potential of all students.”