Chicago Teachers Union Members Approve Deal to Push Average Salary Over $114,000
In a major victory for Chicago’s public school teachers, the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) has announced that its members have overwhelmingly approved a four-year labor contract that will raise their average salary to more than $114,000. The news has been met with excitement and celebration by teachers, students, and parents alike.
After months of negotiations and a 10-day strike, the CTU and the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) reached a deal that promises to significantly increase the salaries and benefits of the city’s educators. Under the new contract, teachers will receive a 16% salary increase over the next five years, including a 3% raise in the first year and 3.5% in each of the following years. This will bring the average salary for a Chicago teacher to over $114,000, making them some of the highest-paid educators in the country.
But the agreement goes beyond just salary increases. It also includes provisions for class size reductions, increased support staff, and improvements to school buildings. These changes will not only benefit teachers, but also have a direct impact on the quality of education for students. With smaller class sizes and more resources, teachers will be able to give each student the individual attention they need to succeed.
The deal was approved by an overwhelming majority of CTU members, with 80% of teachers voting in favor of the contract. This is a clear indication of the trust and confidence that teachers have in their union and its ability to negotiate on their behalf. CTU President Jesse Sharkey praised the unity and determination of the union’s members, stating, “Our members have shown that when we stand together, we can achieve great things for our students and our profession.”
The contract approval is a significant victory for not only the teachers, but also for the city as a whole. A strong and well-paid teaching force is crucial for the success and growth of any city. By investing in its educators, Chicago is investing in the future of its children and the prosperity of its communities.
One of the most notable aspects of the contract is the inclusion of a new salary schedule for support staff, such as teaching assistants, school clerks, and custodians. These individuals play a vital role in the functioning of schools, yet their salaries have often been overlooked. With this new contract, they will see significant raises, with some earning up to 40% more over the next five years.
The deal also addresses the issue of school closures and charter school expansion, which have been major points of contention between the CTU and CPS in the past. Under the new contract, CPS will establish a committee to review school closings and their impact on communities, and there will be a cap on the number of charter schools in the city. This is a step towards ensuring that all students have access to quality education, regardless of their zip code.
The approval of this contract is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the importance of unions in protecting the rights and interests of workers. The CTU has shown that when teachers come together and fight for what they deserve, they can achieve great things. This victory is not only for the teachers of Chicago, but for all teachers across the country who are fighting for fair wages and better working conditions.
As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we must also recognize the hard work and dedication of Chicago’s public school teachers. They are not only educators, but also mentors, role models, and advocates for their students. They go above and beyond every day to ensure that their students receive the best education possible. And now, with this new contract, they can continue to do so without having to worry about their own financial stability.
In conclusion, the approval of this contract is a win for the entire city of Chicago. It is a win for teachers, students, parents, and the community as a whole. It is a step towards creating a more equitable and prosperous education system. And it is a reminder that when we come together and stand up for what is right, we can achieve greatness. Congratulations to the Chicago Teachers Union and its members on this well-deserved victory.
