Changes in Chicago Public Schools' Special Education Staffing Draw Criticism

Chicago Public Schools faces intense scrutiny over proposed changes to special education staffing amid a looming $734 million deficit. The Chicago Teachers Union and SEIU Local 73 organized rallies to protest potential cuts to classroom assistants, arguing that such reductions would disrupt essential services for students with disabilities. District officials claim the changes aim to rectify staffing imbalances, asserting that most affected employees can find positions at other schools due to widespread vacancies. The number of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) increased by nearly 8% in the past five years, underscoring the growing demand for special education resources. CPS plans to add 120 case managers and 100 clinicians this year to support educators and improve student services.

Despite these additions, labor leaders remain wary, citing insufficient input from staff and families in the restructuring process. The district's commitment to resource allocation for students with disabilities has been emphasized by officials, who insist that the changes are unrelated to budget cuts. As the fiscal year begins, anxiety looms among special education staff and families due to ongoing uncertainties.