Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) negotiations with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) have stalled, according to union leaders. The impasse stems from a disagreement over the authority to approve economic proposals within the CPS negotiating team.
CTU President Stacy Davis Gates alleges that CPS negotiators now claim they require Board of Education approval before moving forward on economic aspects of a new teacher’s contract. This, she argues, directly contradicts a Christmas Eve ruling by a Cook County judge that prohibited Board members from negotiating with the CTU without the consent of CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. Davis Gates demands clarity on who holds the ultimate decision-making power in these negotiations, stating, “Either the Board of Education and Pedro are working together on this contract, or Pedro is working alone on this contract. Whatever it is, we need to have a clear understanding of who has the authority and the decision making.”
In response, CPS officials issued a statement affirming their commitment to negotiations and reaching a fair agreement. However, the statement avoided directly addressing the question of whether their negotiators require Board approval for economic proposals. CPS emphasized their dedication to a “fair and sustainable agreement” that acknowledges educators’ contributions while ensuring the district’s financial stability and aligning with its strategic plan. The ultimate goal, they stated, is to support “a rigorous, equitable, and joyful learning experience for all students.” The lack of a clear response from CPS regarding the Board’s role in negotiations leaves the future of contract talks uncertain.