Here’s a fact: education reform (school choice, teacher accountability, high expectations and school autonomy) is the not the cause of the impending teacher strike in Chicago. Here’s another fact: it is becoming increasingly difficult for the public to perceive that the first fact is true. That’s because there is a sad juxtaposition playing out in Chicago today. On one hand,…
Tag: Chicago Teachers Union
Dear Chicago Teacher’s Union: Put Children First
I am a proud Chicago Public Schools parent. Like many Chicago parents, I mostly like what I see happening in my child’s school. My daughter is a good student and has the support of caring teachers and a principal who is trying new things. But like many Chicago parents, I’m frustrated by the political and financial problems that now threaten…
Did Something Strange Occur With the Chicago Teacher’s Union Practice Vote?
There are two things that I have been around a lot in my professional career: schools and elections. I guess it’s that slightly odd mix of experiences that has me asking questions as the Chicago Teachers Union prepares to hold a strike authorization vote this week. Now, don’t get me wrong. I believe in the right of workers to organize.…
It Reminded Me of Old Times
It reminded me of old times. The CEO of Chicago Public Schools standing up in a forum like the City Club sounding off forcefully on the need for fundamental school funding reform in the state of Illinois took my mind nostalgically back to the years I served as the Field Director and Deputy Campaign Manager of A+ Illinois, a coalition of 500 organizations and 50,000…