CHICAGO—The Chicago Teachers Union released the following statement regarding Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s press briefing today about his school data regarding student murders, suspensions and other disciplinary actions.

“There is a serious disconnect between what CPS is saying and what is being reported from the schools. You can't appropriately deal with disciplinary infractions and behavior issues without social workers, counselors, etc., and instead of expanding those positions, they are cutting them -- making schools less safe and secure for students and staff. While we applaud efforts to decrease suspensions and expulsions, this has to be done along with providing the resources necessary to address inappropriate student behavior and enact restorative justice programs that enable students to address personal trauma, anger and conflicts. The University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School Research data shows that the very schools that CPS lauds for lowering disciplinary infractions are rated by students and staff as having unhealthy climates and cultures within the building.

“Any drop in homicides is positive news and reassuring to thousands of our families who've been impacted by violence across this city, regardless of race and class. But such spin provides no solace for those who continue to live in school deserts and war zones. Though the mayor may believe he’s made minor progress, there is still a need for comprehensive wraparound services in our schools. Instead of cutting school nurses, psychologists, counselors and social workers, CPS should be adding them and finding new ways to support our public school families.

“Lastly, it shouldn’t be lost on anyone that this so-called decline comes when the mayor and his handpicked school board has closed 50 neighborhood schools, suspended scores of our students and siphoned many more off to privately held charter operations. CPS still has not accounted for all of the students impacted by these closings. Where have they gone; and, what has happened to them?”