Chicago Teachers Union votes to authorize strike; walkout could begin Oct. 7
CHICAGO _ Chicago Teachers Union members have voted by a huge margin to authorize a strike, setting the stage for about 25,000 educators to walk off the job as early as Oct. 7.
Though an actual strike remains uncertain, Thursday's vote results mark a big step toward what would be the first teacher walkout in Chicago Public Schools since 2012 _ not counting a one-day labor action in 2016 _ and represents a major challenge for Mayor Lori Lightfoot early in her first term in office.
A potential walkout could affect the approximately 360,000 students enrolled in Chicago Public Schools, as well as their families, many of whom could be scrambling for alternative child care options.
In order for the strike to be authorized, 75% of CTU members had to vote in favor of the measure. But union members far exceeded that threshold, with leaders reporting that 94% of ballots counted as of about 10 p.m. Thursday were "yes" votes.
Union President Jesse Sharkey called the outcome "a clear signal that we need the mayor and the Board of Education to address critical needs in our schools."
He added that while "this is our livelihood at stake ... we all very much want what's best for the future of the Chicago public school system."
The development now increases pressure on the city and district leaders to reach a deal.
_Chicago Tribune
