I am a teacher. I care about my students and work really hard. I have spent my entire 14-year career working in urban schools, and wouldn’t change it for anything. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, allow me to share some of my unpopular opinions. Here’s something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately, in light of…
Here’s a Better Way to Make up Those Strike Days
Teachers say moving professional development days to June could give them time to learn more about how to teach reading.
What’s in the CTU Deal for the Kids?
This article has been updated to add more information on staffing to support English learners. Late yesterday, the Chicago Teachers Union’s House of Delegates approved a tentative agreement in a tight vote. The CTU deal includes good pay and holds the line on health insurance premiums, but what’s in it for the kids? What will the new provisions on class…
You Can’t Always Get What You Want, But I Hope the CTU Contract Gets What Our Kids Need
I support the teachers’ main reasons for striking. We need more social workers and special education teachers. Let’s focus on equity and compromise to get an agreement.
Here’s How Chicago Stacks Up on Teacher Prep Time
Teacher prep time may be the final hurdle in contract negotiations between the city and the Chicago Teachers Union. If the teachers’ demand is met, Chicago would lead the nation in elementary teacher prep time.
When It Comes to the Chicago Strike, Here’s Why I’m Sticking with the Union
As the Chicago Teachers Union strike moves through Day 8, district and union leadership are haggling over the dollars needed to reach an agreement. This won’t be easy and it may take a while. Some parents are getting frustrated. While I get that this is hard and puts undue burdens on students, I’m not one of the frustrated parents. Personally…
Hey CTU, Take the Win Already!
The city has no more money to give the Chicago Teachers Union. Take the win already.
Will You Still Care About Our Kids When the Teachers’ Strike Ends?
My friend and esteemed colleague, Chris Stewart, often asks, “How are the children?” Well, according to Jasmine Lane’s tweet thread asking rhetorical questions like, “How many futures have been derailed because instead of standing up for and protecting the education of our most vulnerable, we were busy coddling a grown-up’s feelings?” we can assume that they are not ok. In…