Critical Essay - , Twenty Years at Hull-House The argument Addams makes that "educational matters are more democratic in their political than in their social aspect" (197), I believe she is referring to the long struggle between the teachers and the Chicago School Board. The Chicago School Board was politically corrupt. Many of the teachers and custodial engineers were friends of politicians who secured their positions in exchange for certain kickbacks. The school board maintained control over the school administration for many years. Durin ....