In the past, I was a supporter of the CTU because they advocated for smaller classrooms and having extra counselors and teachers. As a parent of twin high school students on the West Side, I was concerned that students were not getting the attention they needed in classrooms with 40 students and one teacher. It was unfair for teachers to have the responsibility of playing multiple roles, and I thought the CTU fought for their rights.
I believe there is a fair amount being offered for a new contract that will cover the needs for CPS. At this point, CTU is affecting the students who have test, like the SAT and ACT, that are imperative for scholarships and life after CPS. Compared to other students in Illinois, especially in the suburbs, our kids are missing out and getting behind because of the strike.
The negotiations have been disheartening and inconvenient for parents who cannot provide adequate child care. Parents and students are on edge every day playing “the waiting game.”
CPS and the CTU should handle their differences over the summer while school is not in session. This situation is disruptive to our students’ future success.
Rena Robinson, Austin
To read Rena's Letter as published in the Chicago Sun-Times, click here.
Parent Leader Reflection, Jose Quiles
Jose, a K1C parent champion, reflects on a lifetime of working with families, immigrants, and young people — finding that true fulfillment was never found in titles or recognition, but in the quiet, lasting transformation of those he served. Rooted in faith, his legacy lives on in every life that moved forward because someone chose to stop and help them rise.
Daniel Anello: As immigration enforcement intensifies, CPS needs to share real-time data to protect students
Originally published in Chicago Tribune on January 30, 2026
Opinion: CPS mustn't let enrollment declines shortchange the students it serves
Published originally in Crain's Chicago Business on January 21, 2026.