CHICAGO (WLS) — The deadline for a CPS budget is drawing near, prompting teachers to organize a rally on Thursday in response to a statement by Governor JB Pritzker concerning funding.

Members of the Chicago Teachers Union are opposing the governor’s remarks regarding the district’s strategy to bridge a $734 million budget shortfall, with only a few days left to finalize a solution.

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Governor JB Pritzker has said the state won’t help the district close the budget gap.

This comes as Mayor Brandon Johnson remains confident the Board of Education can pass a balanced budget without a stalemate.

The urgency is increasing. The proposed CPS budget, which interim CPS CEO Macquline King backs, does not propose teacher layoffs nor does it involve borrowing.

READ MORE | Board of Education deeply divided over proposed CPS budget with days left to close $734M shortfall

Many of the mayor’s appointed board members support a loan.

“We have to ensure that we have every single option and every single tool accessible to our CEO,” Mayor Johnson stated. “It’s going to get passed with the majority of the board that understands my vision for public education.”

READ MORE | $734M Chicago Public Schools budget deficit looms as students return to class

According to legal requirements, the Chicago Board of Education must approve a CPS budget by the month’s end, leaving board members with limited time to reach a consensus.

Thursday rally with CTU members is expected at Fort Dearborn Elementary School.