As Chicago students and teachers prepare to head back to school on August 26, there are a number of significant changes and challenges on the horizon for the 2024-25 school year. One of the most notable developments is the upcoming school board elections, which will mark a historic moment in Chicago’s education system. The district’s oversight body will expand from seven to 21 members, with half of them being elected. This shift in governance structure is expected to bring about new perspectives and priorities to the decision-making process.
In addition to the changes in the school board, there will also be an influx of new students who have recently migrated to America. These students may face unique challenges, including a lack of bilingual support in some schools. Ensuring that these students receive the resources and assistance they need to succeed will be a key focus for educators and policymakers in the coming year.
Another major issue facing Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is the budget battle and negotiations for a new teachers union contract. The district approved a $9.9 billion budget for the upcoming school year, but this figure could increase depending on the outcome of contract talks with the Chicago Teachers Union. The slow pace of negotiations has raised concerns about the district’s financial future, with projections of a significant deficit if certain proposals are accepted.
Furthermore, CPS is also facing challenges related to the use of federal COVID relief funds, which are set to expire soon. The district has used a significant portion of these funds to cover expenses such as staff salaries, but there are questions about how CPS will manage its finances once this funding runs out. Mayor Brandon Johnson has suggested borrowing money to cover increased costs, but this proposal has faced pushback from CPS administration and the school board.
Additionally, the state of bilingual education in CPS is another area of concern, especially with the growing number of migrant students enrolling in the district. While efforts are being made to hire more bilingual staff and provide support for English learners, there are still gaps in resources and services for these students. Ensuring that all students have access to quality education and support will be a priority for CPS in the upcoming school year.
Overall, the 2024-25 school year in Chicago is shaping up to be a period of significant change and challenges for the education system. From the historic school board elections to the budget battles and issues related to bilingual education, there are many important issues that will need to be addressed in the coming months. Stay informed and engaged with the latest education news by signing up for Chalkbeat Chicago’s free daily newsletter.
