Parent's Frustration with CPS and CTU Impasse

As a parent of four children in Chicago Public Schools from the Austin community, I am frustrated with the disorganization that has left families with closed schools this week.

By Claiborne Wade | January 7, 2022 |
Share

As a parent of four children in Chicago Public Schools from the Austin community, I am frustrated with the disorganization that has left families with closed schools this week.

While teachers and students’ safety is important, politics should not dictate our children’s education. We must find a quick solution that takes into account the diverse needs of each CPS school. For example, my child’s school has a COVID-19 safety committee that monitors all virus-related matters in the school. If every school had one of these committees, I am confident that we could have safe, comfortable environments for each school. Then, decisions about switching to remote learning could be made at the school level by those closest to the situation.

Ultimately, our children should not be caught in the middle of another disagreement between the mayor and the Chicago Teachers Union.

— Claiborne Wade, Chicago

Previous Next

On Black History

By Daniel Anello | February 11, 2025

K1C CEO Daniel Anello reflects on what Black history means in America, recent progress and setbacks, and what gives him hope.

Our Voices

Turning 10 Years Old

By Daniel Anello | January 29, 2025

Daniel Anello marks ten years at Kids First Chicago in January 2025. He reflects on our mission, the lessons we've learned, and the work that still lies ahead.

Our Voices

Why Illinois Must Fully Fund Education Now

By Claiborne Wade | January 13, 2025

Claiborne Wade, chair of Kids First Chicago’s Equitable Funding Task Force, CPS parent, and staff member at DePriest Elementary, presses the state board and state legislators to guarantee more adequate education funding in the FY2026 budget.

Our Voices, Policy Priorities