Right now, the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) is deep in negotiations for a new contract, with a staggering demand of $50 billion on the table.
They’re not just aiming for higher wages—they want a complete benefits overhaul. To give you an idea, that $50 billion is almost what Illinois collected in total tax receipts last year.
Aiming For a Raise
The CTU isn’t holding back; they’re pushing for their members to get a 9% wage increase every year all the way through 2028.
This reflects the union’s long-term strategy to significantly uplift teachers’ earnings.
More Than Money on the Line
It’s not just about the paycheck. The CTU’s wishlist includes fully covered abortions and extensive fertility benefits, encompassing everything from treatment to embryo storage.
They’re making a comprehensive case for broadening health benefits far beyond the basics.
Boosting Migrant Student Support
The union is also setting its sights on better integration and support for migrant students.
They propose allocating $2,000 each to help with everything from schoolwork to mental health, and they want to see a ‘newcomer liaison’ in every school to help these students settle in.
Push for Social Justice in Education
CTU is serious about weaving social justice deeply into the school curriculum, insisting on annual LGBTQ+ training for teachers.
This is about more than education; it’s about fostering an inclusive environment for all students and staff.
Safeguarding Student Identity
In a bold move to protect privacy, the CTU wants assurances that school staff won’t have to disclose if a student chooses not to identify with their biological sex.
It’s a significant step towards supporting students in expressing their true identities.
What Education Dollars Are Doing
Chicago is pouring money into its schools, with spending per student topping $21,000 last year—well above the national average.
This shows a serious commitment to education, but also raises questions about spending efficiency given current academic outcomes.
The Political Power of the Teachers Union
The CTU isn’t just a player in education; they’re a force in local politics, especially evident in their support for Mayor Brandon Johnson.
Their influence is clear, shaping not just education policy but broader city governance.
High Pay, Mixed Results
Chicago’s teachers are among the best-paid in the nation, yet the city struggles with student literacy—only 21% of eighth graders are proficient readers.
It’s a disconnect that raises eyebrows about the balance between teacher compensation and student achievement.
Defending the Demand
Union President Stacy Davis Gates stands firm on their demands, saying, “We are asking you to give us an opportunity to tell our story.”
It’s a rallying call for support as they lay out their vision for the future of Chicago’s education.
Pushback from Policy Experts
The demands have not gone unchallenged.
The Illinois Policy Institute, for one, argues that the CTU’s proposals are more about wielding political power than improving education. Mailee Smith from the Institute has voiced concerns about the true intentions behind these demands.
A Financial Crossroads
Critics warn that meeting the CTU’s demands could mean a total overhaul of Chicago’s finances, potentially leading to higher taxes and more strain on city resources.
As discussions unfold, the financial implications loom large, with all eyes on how this could affect everyone in Chicago.
