Chicago Public Schools Approve $9.9 Billion Budget
Chicago Public Schools approved a $9.9 billion budget despite objections from the Chicago Teachers Union. The Chicago Board of Education members unanimously voted to pass a multi-billion-dollar spending plan for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.
Focus on Student Needs
CPS Executive Pedro Martinez stated that the budget was developed using a new model that moves away from student-based budgeting. The positions and resources are now primarily based on student needs. The adopted plan aims to preserve necessary resources while adding new ones for students, with a particular emphasis on social-emotional learning initiatives.
Addressing Funding Gaps and Cuts
In order to address a $500 million funding gap, the budget includes measures such as raising property taxes to bring in $193 million and cutting central offices. Additionally, the district plans to save $220 million by assuming many staff positions will go unfilled. Despite these measures, the Chicago Teachers Union believes that the cuts will disproportionately impact vulnerable students, especially those on the South and West sides of the city.
Demonstrations were held to challenge the budget and potential layoffs. However, the budget was ultimately passed by the board. It is worth noting that the plan may still be revised once CPS and CTU reach an agreement on a new contract, which is currently being negotiated.
