Chicago Teachers Contract 2019

The Chicago Teachers Union and the Chicago Public Schools district have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract for 2019. The contract, which still needs to be approved by union members and the school board, includes provisions for higher salaries, reduced class sizes, and increased support for students with special needs.

The negotiations, which began in February, were contentious at times, with teachers staging a one-day strike in April to protest the district`s initial offer. However, both sides ultimately came to an agreement that they believe is fair and beneficial for students and teachers alike.

One of the key provisions of the new contract is an increase in salaries for teachers. Under the agreement, teachers will receive a 16% pay raise over the course of five years, with the largest increase coming in the first year of the contract. This increase is intended to help attract and retain high-quality teachers, who are essential to the success of Chicago`s students.

Another important aspect of the new contract is a commitment to reducing class sizes. The agreement includes language that requires the district to work towards smaller class sizes in all grade levels, with a particular emphasis on reducing class sizes in high-poverty schools. This is important because research has shown that smaller class sizes lead to improved academic outcomes for students.

Finally, the new contract includes increased support for students with special needs. It requires the district to hire more special education teachers, as well as provide additional resources for students with disabilities. This is particularly important because Chicago has a large special education population, and these students have historically not received the support they need to succeed in school.

Overall, the new contract is a positive development for the Chicago Public Schools district and its students. It addresses some of the most pressing issues facing educators in the city, and should help to attract and retain high-quality teachers while improving academic outcomes for students. However, it remains to be seen whether union members and the school board will approve the contract, and whether it will be implemented successfully in the coming years.