Chicago Teachers Union and Chicago Public Schools Reach Tentative Agreement, Pending Approval by CTU’s House of Delegates

CHICAGO (WLS) — After lengthy discussions, the Chicago Teachers Union has reached a preliminary contract agreement with Chicago Public Schools.

The deal must be approved by CTU’s House of Delegates. That vote will happen later this week.

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The deal would then be given to the all the teachers for a vote.

According to the terms released by CPS, the four-year tentative agreement includes:

-A four percent raise in year one, and 4-5 percent increases for the remaining three years.

-There’s also increased pay for veteran educators, more librarians, nurses, and social workers.

-New class size limits.

-More elementary school teacher prep time.

Both CPS and CTU leadership praising this tentative agreement.

“Following today’s developments, we took a moment to pause. The Big Bargaining Team gathered to meticulously review all aspects and weigh our options,” shared Vicki Kurzydlo, a member of the CTU’s bargaining team with over three decades of teaching experience. “We have included provisions that prioritize the safety of our students and create a protective shield around our schools against potential challenges from the federal government.”

CPS CEO Pedro Martinez expressed in a statement, “This agreement has been crafted to honor the dedication of our exceptional educators and support the best interests of our students.”

After the union presents the plan to its members, CPS CEO Pedro Martinez will present the plan to the CPS Board for a final approval. That process could take a couple of weeks.