CHICAGO — Tensions are rising as the Chicago Board of Education convenes this Thursday morning, with a palpable sense of anticipation in the air.
Although not officially on the agenda, it is anticipated that parents will seize the opportunity to express their concerns about upcoming May Day events.
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There is growing frustration among some parents of Chicago schoolchildren regarding the plans for May Day. They feel excluded from the planning process and are eager to voice their discontent.
In a show of solidarity and determination, these parents, accompanied by their attorney, plan to present a formal letter to the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) board.
RELATED: Chicago Public Schools, CTU agree to make May 1 day of civic action; school will remain in session
In a significant development, Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Teachers Union have agreed that schools will remain open on May 1, allowing teachers and students the option to participate in pro-workers rallies without disrupting the academic schedule.
Teachers and students will be allowed to participate in May Day pro-workers rallies.
A group of parents have hired the same lawyer who represented then CPS CEO Pedro Martinez and are threatening legal action if they don’t get more clarity on what will happen on May Day.
“They did this without the consent or the input of the parents,” CPS parent Judy Velez said. “This is not only wrong, it is irresponsible or perhaps even illegal.”
Chicago Public Schools reiterated that May 1 will be a full day of instruction. CPS said participation in any civic events is voluntary, and parental permission is required.
For teachers and students not participating in the May Day rally at Union Park, CTU and Mayor Brandon Johnson are calling for civic engagement activities in school.
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