The current push to remove police from schools hits a nerve among some people, even some of my fellow teachers. When I talk about it, I am frequently asked, “Well, have you ever been assaulted by a student?” Yes, I have, and that’s not the point. Usually, asking the question is a sign of white fragility and defensiveness. Here’s why.…
Tag: CPS
My Chavez Students Are One in a Billion
Recently, Chicago Public Schools released a report from the CPS Inspector General’s office questioning how the NWEA test is given to students. While the report mainly focuses on lengthy testing times and frequent pauses during tests, it also includes a table that lists schools, grades and subjects where students achieved huge growth. This table includes Chavez Elementary’s third-graders, for growth…
If Student-Based Budgeting Is the Slicer, We Need a Bigger Pie
Chicago Public Schools recently wrapped up a series of workshops discussing how student-based budgeting works and asking parents, school leaders and community members for their ideas about how to make sure the neediest schools and students get an equitable share of funds. Critics charge the current budgeting process creates a vicious cycle of disinvestment when already under-resourced schools lose students.…
The New Conversation about Controlled Enrollment Shows How White Privilege Works in CPS
For 20 years, controlled enrollment meant hardship for Southwest Side families. Why is the district suddenly coming up with a kinder, gentler model for affluent North Siders? Thanks, white privilege.
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.
We Can Support Our Teachers and Still Call B.S. On This Chicago Strike
You know what? It’s a real shame that people can’t seem to separate politics from public service. Because if one more person comes on one of my social media pages trying to argue down my stance on this latest Chicago Teachers Union strike, I might be compelled to pop off. Here’s what’s going on. The CTU is on strike over contractual demands…