Chicago Public Schools Says Special Education Staffing Shift Is Not About Balancing The Budget

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) confronts backlash over its proposed special education staffing changes while managing a $734 million deficit. The Chicago Teachers Union and SEIU Local 73 held rallies to protest cuts to special education staff, emphasizing the potential negative impact on students with disabilities. CPS officials argue that the changes aim to correct staffing imbalances, with some schools overstaffed while others struggle to fill roles. They project an increase in special education teachers and a budget boost for these programs, despite a likely reduction in classroom assistant positions. Officials state that most displaced staff will find new opportunities due to high vacancy rates.

The number of students served with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) has risen nearly 8% in five years, further complicating staffing needs. Amid ongoing uncertainty, CPS plans to unveil its 2025-26 budget in early August, later than usual. Labor leaders remain skeptical about the changes, citing a lack of sufficient stakeholder input.