In an attempt to intimidate educators out of exercising their rights, CPS management has sent new communications changing policies and denying legitimate requests. Below you will find guidance on responding to some of the most common situations that members are experiencing as the mayor recklessly pushes forward with a plan rejected by the vast majority of educators, parents, and principals.
CTU members have voted to act for safety by all working remotely rather than complying with CPS orders for K-8 educators to work in unsafe buildings. We will also all respond to CTU retaliation (if there is any) with a strike. Many members still have questions. The answers below are meant to address concerns and confusion members have raised with us, so far.
As CPS continues its push to force members back into unsafe buildings in January, the successful rebellion at Latino Youth offers an important lesson: solidarity is power.
CTU members must all sign onto this letter demanding safety. Whether you are threatened with unsafe in-person work January 4 or not, standing together is one important step in winning our right to a safe workplace. Sign right away and share ctulocal1.org/safety with colleagues to have them sign.
In a 38-page final order, the independent arbitrator ruled that CPS clerks and other staff cannot be forced to work in unsafe buildings. We will be holding an emergency meeting with school clerks, technology coordinators and other rank-and-file members impacted by the arbitration opinion very soon.
CTU continues to bargain with CPS over the conditions of remote learning as the school year begins. Watch the video for details of the bargaining. In addition, we’re hearing that members are being asked to report in-person to schools or outdoors for school orientations and open houses before the school year starts. CPS says they are not telling principals that staff can be required to report in-person to school or to outdoor orientations and open houses before school starts.
The CTU grievance department provides this advice with actions to take to secure your rights. We’re also sharing news of important grievance wins that secure rights for all our members.
Locke Elementary School teacher Michol Whitney has a message for her colleagues.
