CHICAGO (CBS) — The Chicago Teachers Union staged “walk-ins” at more than 150 schools on Monday as part of a nationwide movement to call for more funding for public education.
The demonstrations came as approximately $200 billion federal COVID relief funding is coming to an end nationwide, and school districts across Illinois are looking at big budget issues as a result.
“The funding from the federal government has had such a positive impact, and to have it taken away with no plans to replace or supplement means we will halt the incredible growth our students have made since bouncing back from COVID,” said Benito Juarez Community Acad teacher Lilliana Hogan.
Monday’s “walk-ins” by CTU are part of a national movement with The Alliance to Reclaim Our Schools – a coalition of parent, youth, community, and labor groups fighting to protect public education.
The message is that teachers want arts and after school activities – and the staff that go with it, such as librarians and social workers – to be a priority for the Chicago Public Schools. Teachers are calling on elected officials to find out where the money can come from.