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2mo ago

Chicago Teachers Union Rejects Fact-Finder's Report but Sees Progress in Negotiations

Union leaders cite favorable financial findings but call for further talks to resolve outstanding contract issues with Chicago Public Schools.

Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) Deputy General Counsel Thad Goodchild, left, listens as CTU President Stacy Davis Gates, right, talks about recommendations from the “fact-finding” process in a press conference at CTU headquarters on Feb. 5, 2025. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez speaks about the recommendations from a third-party fact-finder, aimed at helping the district settle on a contract with the Chicago Teachers Union, during a news conference at CPS Headquarters in downtown Chicago on Feb. 6, 2025. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

Overview

  • The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) rejected a neutral arbitrator's report, stating it addressed only two of 15 key issues raised in contract negotiations.
  • The fact-finder's report suggested Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has more financial resources available than previously claimed, aligning with CTU's position on increased salaries and staffing.
  • CPS maintains it cannot afford the union's demands, citing a $500 million budget deficit and concerns about borrowing capacity to fund thousands of new positions.
  • The rejection triggers a 30-day cooling-off period, after which the union could issue a 10-day strike notice, though CTU leaders emphasize their preference to avoid a strike.
  • Both sides expressed optimism that the report's findings could serve as a foundation for reaching a final agreement, with CTU planning to brief stakeholders on remaining differences.