Chicago Public Schools Teachers Union Warns of Cuts as CPS Faces $700M Budget Deficit

CHICAGO (WLS) — Teachers and staff in Chicago Public Schools are raising concerns about the district’s financial outlook as CPS faces a budget gap of more than $700 million.

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Maya Ruiz, who teaches at Fairfield Elementary, said the budget strain is already being felt through staffing changes at her school.

“Fairfield Academy has lost three teaching positions for the next school year requiring reassignments within our staff. My library position was closed and I have been reassigned to 5th grade,” said Ruiz.

According to the Chicago Teachers Union, the district could be in danger of eliminating thousands of teacher and staff jobs. Union leaders also cite deteriorating school facilities and an increasing number of students requiring special education services as major challenges adding to the pressure.

“Our students deserve more not less. Our school communities have had enough of cuts year after year,” said Pavlyn Jankov, Director of Research at the Chicago Teachers Union.

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The Chicago Board of Education met Wednesday to review the budget situation. CPS officials said they are weighing every available option in an effort to protect student supports and resources wherever possible. Meanwhile, CTU is calling on state lawmakers to convene a special session focused on school funding.

During a separate appearance, Gov. JB Pritzker addressed the union’s concerns, though he stopped short of committing to a special session.

“We still need more it’s true. And I’m on their side, we need more and I have tried very hard as you know in very tight budget circumstances,” Pritzker said.

CPS leadership plans to bring a budget proposal to the Board of Education for a vote in July. The district must approve a final budget by Aug. 29.