WFLD - Education

Lafayette parents, students overtake classroom to protest closings

Tisha Lewis — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:46:00 EDT

Nine Lafayette Elementary parents and students have occupied a Lafayette Elementary school classroom, in a sit-in style protest against the school's closing.

9 students hospitalized after being pepper sprayed at school

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:54:00 EDT

Nine students at a Near North Side bilingual public elementary school were hospitalized Wednesday afternoon after a student accidentally discharged pepper spray.

Last day of CPS school year bittersweet for closing schools

Anita Padilla — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 16:10:00 EDT

Chicago is at the tipping point, as the showdown continues over CPS closings. The final bell will ring for more than half of the public schools scheduled to close on Friday, under CPS' reorganization plan.

CPS protesters claim budget cuts could leave students without toilet paper

Craig Wall — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 22:12:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools wrap up classes this week, and that means some of the schools will only be open for a few more days before they are closed as part of the CPS 5-year reorganization plan.

CPS to hire 600 for Chicago school Safe Passage routes

Joanie Lum — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 12:19:00 EDT

While the school year is winding down for Chicago Public Schools students, police and other city departments are preparing Safe Passage routes for the fall.

850 teachers, staffers get pink slips at closing, `turnaround` schools

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 21:10:00 EDT

About 850 teachers and staffers at schools doomed to either close this month or to reboot their staffs were handed pink slips Friday afternoon, according to Chicago Public Schools.

Pritzker Military Library offers history and hope for veterans

Patrick Elwood — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:49:00 EDT

Homelessness remains a big problem facing Chicago and the state of Illinois, particularly for military veterans. The Pritzker Military Library is doing its part to stop the trend.

Learn about alternative energy with Argonne Lab`s Green Racing Simulator!

Patrick Elwood — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 11:33:00 EDT

Good Day got a taste of science at the Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont Monday morning, where they've unveiled their Green Racing Simulator to teach kids about alternative energy.

Goodrich principal eats a worm after students exceed reading goal

Patrick Elwood — Thu, 30 May 2013 11:21:00 EDT

The principal of Goodrich School kissed a pig after his students surpassed their reading goal last year. This year, they decided to up the ante - he's eating fried worms Thursday!

Nathanael Greene keeps students healthy with soccer, good food

Patrick Elwood — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 11:17:00 EST

First Lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" campaign is making waves on the national level, so Good Day Chicago wanted to showcase a local school that is one of the healthiest in the city.

California schools get assault weapons

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 18:33:00 EST

The police department for one California school district has bought 14 assault weapons to protect its students from mass shootings.

Sandy Hook students return to class at new elementary school

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 12:56:00 EST

The youngsters who survived the Sandy Hook massacre returned to class Thursday for the first time, settling in at their old, familiar desks but in a different school in a different town.

Kiplinger rates best in-state college deals

Wed, 2 Jan 2013 14:22:00 EST

Kiplinger's newsletter is out with an interesting report on the best deals for in-state college students.

AAP: Recess should be a requirement

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 19:07:00 EST

A policy statement released by the American Academy of Pediatrics says recess should be considered a requirement.

More college applications rejected due to Facebook activity

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 13:18:00 EDT

More and more colleges are rejecting applications because of questionable activity on Facebook.

Hundreds of Chicago teacher supporters rally Tuesday

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 22:22:00 EDT

Hundreds of Chicago teachers, parents and supporters have rallied in downtown Chicago on the second day of a teachers strike.

30 Antioch students sickened by fumes from fire

Mon, 21 May 2012 10:52:00 EDT

Thirty elementary students at Antioch Upper Grade School were hospitalized after fumes from a small kiln fire made them sick.

AT&T program helps Chicago teens graduate

Robin Robinson — Thu, 10 May 2012 11:20:00 EDT

High school drop outs have very few job prospects. It's bad for them and it's bad for business, which is why one of the nation's biggest companies is investing in caps and gowns.

Chicago School Day Could Be Lengthened By One Full Hour

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:52:00 EDT

School reform negotiators tell FOX Chicago News they may be on the verge of an agreement to lengthen Chicago’s scandalously short school day by one full hour.

Group Protests Proposed CPS School Consolidation

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:41:00 EDT

More than 100 Chicago Public School parents and students spent Friday morning protesting the proposed closing and consolidation of 13 CPS schools.

Controversial Richton Park Charter School Southland College Prep Opens Monday

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:39:00 EDT

Students at a controversial charter school in the south suburbs will be moving Monday into their new building.

Chicago Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel Pushing for 2nd All Girls High School

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:38:00 EDT

Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel says he'll push for a second all-girls public high school in Chicago.

Rahm Emanuel: Lengthen School Day in CPS

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:38:00 EDT

Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel is sending a warning to Chicago teachers, saying they should expect to work longer hours when he takes over at City Hall.

CPS School Bans Bag Lunches Brought from Home

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:35:00 EDT

An effort to get kids to eat better has led one Chicago Public School to ban bag lunches.

CPS Gets $500K in Grants for Chinese Studies

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:35:00 EDT

Fresh off a visit to China, Mayor Richard Daley touted nearly $500,000 the Chicago Public Schools are getting in grants from private companies and the federal government to benefit Chinese study and announced his plans after...

State Audit Slams College Illinois Overseers

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:35:00 EDT

An audit released Thursday of the College Illinois prepaid tuition program slammed the state agency overseeing the program for not following “sound business practices” or state law when hiring a politically connected...

CPS Cancels Plans to Consolidate Beidler Elementary into Cather to Make Way for Charter High School

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:34:00 EDT

Chicago Public School officials announced Monday that they were pulling a proposal to fold Beidler Elementary into Cather Elementary to make room for a charter high school.

Teachers Unions Debate Education Reform, Including Seniority, Layoffs, and the Right to Strike

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:34:00 EDT

Leaders of the state's largest teachers union said Monday they hope to have a statewide deal on school reform legislation as soon as Tuesday, and they said they're prepared to let teacher qualifications -- instead of just...

Rahm Emanuel Searching Nationwide for New CPS Chief: Report

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:33:00 EDT

It looks like Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel may be going out of state in his search for the next leader of the Chicago Public Schools.

Mayor Daley, City of Chicago Promote Spring Break Programs for CPS Students

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EDT

Chicago Public School students are going on spring break next wee, and Mayor Daley wants to make sure they stay out of trouble.

Illinois Lawmakers, Unions Reach Deal on Teacher Labor Reform

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:25:00 EDT

Illinois teachers would find it harder to strike and easier to lose their jobs for poor performance under an agreement announced Wednesday by lawmakers and education groups.

Ill. Senate Approves Education Labor Law Reform

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:23:00 EDT

The Illinois Senate has unanimously approved sweeping legislation that would reduce teachers' job security and emphasize performance over seniority.

Unions Respond to Education Overhaul

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:22:00 EDT

Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery warns that his members in Chicago will want more money if they're told to work more hours.

Who is Jean-Claude Brizard?

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:19:00 EDT

Jean-Claude Brizard has been tapped by Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel to become the next CEO of the Chicago Public Schools.

Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel Picks Jean-Claude Brizard for CPS Chief

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:17:00 EDT

Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel named Rochester, N.Y. Schools Superintendent Jean-Claude Brizard as his choice to head Chicago's Public Schools.

University of Illinois Tuition Going Up

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:57:00 EDT

Students at the University of Illinois are facing another big tuition increase. Interim President Stanley Ikenberry said the tuition increase will be at least 9 percent.

Former Rochester Mayor Defends New CPS CEO Jean-Claude Brizard

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EDT

Jean-Claude Brizard’s political foes in Rochester, N.Y., have painted a false picture of him.

CPS Chief to Be Jean-Claude Brizard Sued for Discrimination, Punishment in Rochester

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:40:00 EDT

Jean-Claude Brizard, Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel's pick to be the next CPS chief, was the subject of two federal lawsuits questioning his practices during his contentious three years as superintendent of the school district in...

School Reformer Michelle Rhee Endorses New CPS CEO Jean-Claude Brizard

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:39:00 EDT

Nationally recognized school reformer Michelle Rhee was in Chicago on Tuesday, and she offered a strong endorsement of new Chicago Public Schools CEO Jean-Claude Brizard, who was disliked by most teachers in his previous...

Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel Pushes Big Changes at CPS

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:39:00 EDT

Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel wants big changes for Chicago Public Schools. He told educators Wednesday night that CPS should add 90 minutes to each school day and 10 days to the school year.

Daley Won't Comment Yet on CPS Spending

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:31:00 EDT

Mayor Daley said he has not yet seen the report that suggests two former Chicago School Board Presidents spent thousands of taxpayer dollars on food, travel and gifts.

222 Jobs at Stake in Plainfield District

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:31:00 EDT

The school board in Plainfield Dist. 202 will vote tomorrow night on a proposal to eliminate 222 jobs.

Plainfield District Cuts 7 Positions

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EDT

The Plainfield School District has cut seven administrative positions, and more could be on the way.

Main Township Cutting 135 Jobs

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EDT

Maine Township School District 207 is cutting 135 jobs.

CPS CEO Jean-Claude Brizard Plans 'Listening Tour,' Meeting With Teachers Union Presideny

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:15:00 EDT

New Chicago Public Schools CEO Jean-Claude Brizard said he's doing research to understand the challenges he will face running the nation's third-largest school district.

Illinois Lawmakers Considering New School Voucher Bill

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:15:00 EDT

This week, Illinois lawmakers will once again vote on a school voucher plan.

All Graduating Seniors from Urban Prep Pledge to Attend College

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:12:00 EDT

One hundred and four: that's the number of students in the senior class at Urban Prep Charter Academy for Young Men on the south side.

Brizard: Ready to Change Chicago Public Schools for the Better

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:09:00 EDT

The incoming CEO of Chicago Public Schools is not Superman, but Jean Claude Brizard said that Chicago can be saved from failing schools, if everybody is in.

Teachers' Unions Want to Change Ill. Education Reform Bill

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:09:00 EDT

The coalition that helped craft Illinois school reform is in jeopardy tonight.

David Houle Releases Book on School Reform

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:07:00 EDT

School reform is the topic of David Houle's newest book, “Shift Ed: A Call to Action for Transforming K-12 Education.” He joined FOX Chicigao to talk about changing education.

Springfield Still Negotiating School Reform

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:03:00 EDT

This week negotiators in Springfield are trying to save the school reform bill. The teachers unions want lawmakers to un-do what the Chicago Teachers Union calls "last minute trickery" on the bill passed unanimously by the...

Teachers Can Help Students Feel Safe: Report

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:03:00 EDT

A new report from the University of Chicago suggests that teachers need to be more visible to keep schools safe.

Chicago Teacher Arleta Ingram Gets Golden Apple

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:01:00 EDT

Good teachers don't usually get enough recognition, but at least once a year in Chicago, we're reminded that talented teachers in the classroom are golden.

Mayor-Elect Rahm Emanuel Applauds School Reform Bill

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:56:00 EDT

Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel pushes forward in fixing Chicago Public Schools’ flawed system.

Illinois House Sends School Reform Bill to Gov. Pat Quinn

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:56:00 EDT

The school reform bill approved in the Illinois House on Thursday is being called remarkable, landmark, and historic. The vote was 112-1.

CPS Board OK's Change to Magnet Admissions

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:52:00 EDT

The lives of thousands of Chicago Public School students could be changing next year. There are now new admissions criteria for Chicago's magnet schools.

Race, Religion Issues Divide Liberals and Conservatives in Textbook War

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:50:00 EDT

A heated debate over textbooks at the Texas State Board of Education meeting. Liberals and Conservatives are divided over some issues including race and religion.

'Textbook War' Continues in Austin

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:50:00 EDT

They failed to complete their assignment Wednesday, so State School Board members got a crash course in management Thursday morning.

School Board Adopts Social Studies Standards

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:50:00 EDT

Austin, Texas (AP) — The Texas State Board of Education preliminarily adopted new social studies standards Friday after days of heated debate marked by race and politics, shaping what teachers will be required to cover in...

Affordable, Flexible New Approach to College Education

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:49:00 EDT

Times are tough for college students like Inessa Volkonidina, a pre-med student who wants to become a doctor.

CPS Eyeing Larger Class Sizes, Cuts

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:49:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools are facing such dire budget troubles it could leave classes severely overcrowded.

Daley Spars With Teachers Union

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:47:00 EDT

It’s an extra sweet Tuesday because some of your favorite chains are giving away tasty treats for free.Mayor Daley is urging the Chicago Teachers Union to help the city avoid drastic budget cuts.

CPS Students Want Better Food

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:47:00 EDT

Some high school students say you can't get good food at Chicago Public Schools and they plan to take their fight to Wednesday’s school board meeting.

Chief Financial Officer of CPS to Resign over Residency

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:29:00 EDT

Just as a new Chicago schools leadership team stares down a $720 million deficit, the district’s chief financial officer — and one of the few executives Mayor Rahm Emanuel kept on — is resigning, the Chicago Sun-Times...

Illinois House Approves 4-Day School Week

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:27:00 EDT

A four-day school week is one of the budget-saving ideas coming from Springfield.

News According to 5th Graders: Robin Robinson Guest Teaches at Englewood School

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:25:00 EDT

FOX Chicago has been focusing a lot of our reporting on public schools in recent months. With the crisis in education, teachers are often in the cross hairs. Robin Robinson accepted an invitation to get just a small taste of...

Norwood Park's Onahan School Wins $25,000 from Discover

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:22:00 EDT

A school in Chicago's Norwood Park neighborhood has received a big financial boost.

CPS CEO Jean-Claude Brizard Approved Without Contract

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:18:00 EDT

Jean-Claude Brizard, Mayor Rahm Emanuel's choice for CEO of Chicago Public Schools, won formal approval Wednesday.

Study: Teacher Salary Not Equal to Achievement

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:45:00 EDT

Big pay doesn't necessarily mean big results, according to a recent Sun-Times analysis of teacher salaries across the state.

Ready to Reform With Teachers, Not Against: Jean-Claude Brizard

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:43:00 EDT

With a bit of a bumpy start, Jean-Claude Brizard is settling in as Chicago Public Schools chief. He's in the middle of a listening tour around the city, and he joined us to tell us what he's hearing from students, teachers...

CPS Chief Jean-Claude Brizard, Mayor Rahm Emanuel Announce $77 Million in Cuts from CPS Budget

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:41:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools CEO Jean-Claude Brizard and Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced cuts to the CPS budget Thursday morning at South Loop Elementary downtown.

School Chiefs Worried About 'Draconian' Budget Cuts

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:40:00 EDT

The heads of the state's two largest school districts are looking even closer at the governor's proposed budget, and they are not happy.

Parents and CPS Clash Over Breakfast in the Classroom

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:40:00 EDT

Adding to the morning chaos at Wentworth School on the south side: breakfast in a bag.

CPS Makes Changes to Breakfast in the Classroom after FOX Chicago News Report

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:38:00 EDT

A story FOX Chicago reported Thursday has already led to changes at Chicago Public Schools. It was about the new "breakfast in the classroom" program.

Jean-Claude Brizard Sends Letter to CPS Parents About Budget Cuts

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:37:00 EDT

Parents of Chicago Public School students are getting a letter Monday from new Chief Jean-Claude Brizard.

Gov. Pat Quinn Names Gery Chico as Chairman of the State Board of Education

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:35:00 EDT

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn named former Chicago schools chief and Chicago mayor candidate Gery Chico as chairman of the State Board of Education.

Chicago Public Schools CEO Jean-Claude Brizard to Be Paid $250,000

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:35:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools chief executive officer Jean-Claude Brizard will have an annual salary of $250,000, about $20,000 more than his predecessor.

State Tuition Fund 'College Illinois' $300M in Debt; Parents Could Lose Money

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:32:00 EDT

Parents who invested in one of Illinois' prepaid college programs may be out of luck when they go to pay tuition.

Mentor Program 'Sisters Peak' Provides Positive Role Models for Girls

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:32:00 EDT

FOX Chicago’s Tisha Lewis and Robin Robinson are launching a new mentor program for middle school girls called Sisters Peak, to provide them with positive role models.

House to Vote on School Vouchers

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:15:00 EDT

The Illinois House is expected to vote Wednesday on a school voucher bill that would give some parents a choice on where they send their kids to school.

Gov. Pat Quinn Signs Landmark Education Reform Bill

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:06:00 EDT

Gov. Pat Quinn signed a historic education reform bill Monday that means students will spend more time in the classroom and poor performing classes could put teachers on the chopping block.

Appeals Court to Rehear CPS Teacher Firings Case

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:05:00 EDT

It's back to square one for nearly 750 tenured teachers who were fired last summer by the Chicago Public Schools.

Chicago School Board President David Vitale Taking Steps to Raise Funds

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:57:00 EDT

Chicago homeowners will see a property tax increase for the public schools this fall.

Illinois' Bright Start Saving Program to Refund Unmatched Funds

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:53:00 EDT

Illinois families in the Bright Start college savings program can get refunds if they missed out on a special promotion earlier this month.

Chicago Teachers Union Protests CPS Executive Pay Raises, Chicago School Board

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:34:00 EDT

Hundreds of teachers from the Chicago Teachers Union protested at Chicago Public School headquarters Wednesday as the board approved raises for six executives, days after the board denied teachers a 4 percent raise.

Senator Asks For Delay in Gery Chico's Confirmation

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:33:00 EDT

An Illinois state senator is asking for a delay in confirming Gery Chico to head the state school board so he can ask questions about a not-for-profit organization.

New CPS Chief Brizard Wants CPS Teachers to Make Home Visits

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:33:00 EDT

The new chief of Chicago Public Schools Jean-Claude Brizard wants teachers to visit students at home, even in violent neighborhoods.

U of I Trustees OK Tuition Hike, $620,000 Hogan Salary

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:32:00 EDT

University of Illinois trustees voted Thursday to raise tuition for new students by 9.5 percent and approved a contract that pays the school's incoming president approximately $620,000 a year — about $170,000 more than the...

Chicago Public Schools to Lay Off 1,000 Teachers

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:28:00 EDT

Roughly 1,000 Chicago Public School teachers are about to lose their jobs.

Whittier Elementary School Parents, CPS Chief Jean-Claude Brizard Meet Over Library

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:26:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools Chief Jean-Claude Brizard met with community activists at Whittier Elementary School Monday.

Insiders Got Early Notice for Bright Start College Savings Program

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:22:00 EDT

People with connections to the Illinois treasurer's office received early notice of a limited offer through Bright Start that added cash to college savings accounts, giving them an edge over thousands of people who were shut...

Study: Educational Quality Still Divided Along Racial Lines

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:19:00 EDT

Federal education officials say schools serving mostly black students are more likely to have inexperienced teachers than those largely serving whites, and few school districts have pre-kindergarten programs targeting...

Whittier Elementary School Library Construction Stopped by Brizard

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:17:00 EDT

Community activists have won a battle with Chicago Public Schools over the building of a new library at Whittier Elementary School.

CPS May Reduce Police Presence at Public High Schools

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:14:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools is debating on whether to end the practice of stationing two Chicago Police officers inside of every public high school in the city.

Vice President Joe Biden Speaks at National Education Association Convention in Chicago

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:13:00 EDT

Vice President Joe Biden was in Chicago Sunday talking to the nation's largest education union.

Members of National Education Association Teachers Union Endorse President Obama's Re-election

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:13:00 EDT

The nation's largest education union has endorsed President Barack Obama's 2012 re-election campaign.

Illinois Drops Writing from Standardized Exam for High School Juniors

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:48:00 EDT

Illinois will assess only reading and arithmetic now that high school juniors will no longer be tested on their writing skills during standardized exams every spring, according to a published report.

Community Demands Change for Wendell Smith Elementary

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:39:00 EDT

Wendell Smith Elementary School was born out of an uprising of community demand, and nearly 40 years later that community is demanding that it change - or close.

CPS Administrators, Staff Not Getting Raises

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:38:00 EDT

Chicago Public School administrators and staff will share in the budget pain with teachers. Schools CEO Jean-Claude Brizard sent a letter Thursday that said there will be no pay raises this year.

Chicago Public School Foreign Language Classes Face Cuts

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:38:00 EDT

Elementary-age children would no longer have a chance to learn a foreign language at their neighborhood public school under a decision to dump "world languages" to save $3.5 million, Chicago Public School officials revealed...

Education Board Considering Longer School Day

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:38:00 EDT

Chicago Public School leaders are toying with the idea of a longer school day, with students at the 100 most troubled elementary schools in classrooms for eight hours per day, not six.

Naperville Teachers Agree to 3-year Contract

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:38:00 EDT

Naperville District 203 teachers overwhelmingly approved the terms of a proposed 3-year contract Friday, one that calls for no increase in base pay the first year and an estimated average annual increase in base pay of 1...

CPS Officials Rally for Funding, Head to Springfield

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:38:00 EDT

Chicago Public School employees, parents and officials gathered outside Solider Field Wednesday morning to rally for funding.

CPS Students Hold Walkout to Protest Budget Cuts

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:38:00 EDT

Students from at least six Chicago public high schools held a walkout in protest Wednesday.

Chicago Teachers Union Sues Over Larger Class Sizes

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:37:00 EDT

The Chicago Teachers Union has followed through on a threat to sue the Chicago Board of Education, trying to block the board from raising class sizes.

High School Cuts Grad Requirements to Save Money

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:32:00 EDT

At Morton High School District 201, school officials have cut the number of credits that students need to graduate from 22 to 20, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Some CPS Teachers Fail Report Card

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:27:00 EDT

Some Chicago Public School teachers are getting a new report card, and it's not a pretty picture.

CTU, Led by Karen Lewis, Protests School Board Meeting

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:26:00 EDT

The Chicago Teachers Union protested outside school board headquarters Tuesday. The demonstration, led by the union's new president, Karen Lewis, came ahead of an emergency board meeting.

Chicago Teachers Union Needs to See CPS Financial Documents: Lewis

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:25:00 EDT

CPS CEO Ron Huberman can now borrow $800 million and layoff thousands of teachers to pay the bills. Teachers who still have jobs could get a 4 percent pay hike, but some class sizes will go from 30 to 35 students. CTU...

Illinois Creates New Charter School Commission

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:03:00 EDT

Illinois is getting a commission to decide when charter schools should be created and then make sure they're running properly.

CPS Kicks Off Back-to-School Campaign

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:03:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools Thursday kicked off their back-to-school campaign.

Rahm Emanuel Chooses University of Chicago Lab School for 3 Kids

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:01:00 EDT

Recently-elected Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said he has decided not to send his three children to the city's public schools this fall, opting instead for a prestigious private school. Political commentators Dan Proft and...

Chicago to Spend Milions in Stimulus Funds to Fight School Violence

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:58:00 EDT

Chicago is getting ready to spend $25 million on 38 Chicago Public Schools with the most students at risk.

High-Tech Security Cameras Could Be Installed at Troubled CPS Schools

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:58:00 EDT

High-tech security cameras could be coming to some Chicago Public Schools.

CPS Student Test Scores Improving

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:58:00 EDT

While Chicago Public Schools face cutbacks and layoffs, there is some good news; Mayor Daley announced Wednesday an overall improvement in the standardized test scores of CPS students.

CPS Can Fire Low-Performing Teachers

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:57:00 EDT

The Chicago School Board has given Ron Huberman the power to remove the lowest-performing teachers.

Groupon Offers Deal for School Supply Kits to Help Out CPS Kids

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:56:00 EDT

Some schools are charging as much as $400 in sports fees, in addition to the money parents will have to shell out for books, electronic gadgets and other school supplies. But Groupon is offering up a deal of the day to help...

CPS Giving More Money to Magnet Schools, All-Day Kindergarten

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:54:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools are putting more money into magnet schools and all-day kindergarten.

CPS Backs off Doomsday Budget Plan, Larger Class Sizes

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:53:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools are stepping away from a doomsday budget plan that would have put as many as 35 students in one classroom.

CPS' Regional Magnet, Gifted Schools May Lose Teachers in Unannounced Cuts

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:53:00 EDT

Chicago's most competitive and coveted public schools could soon lose some of their academic luster. FOX Chicago News has learned that regional magnet and gifted schools -- which each typically have three extra teachers--may...

Community Volunteers Promote School Attendance in Englewood

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:53:00 EDT

Not going to school is not an option and dozens of volunteers including the Fox Chicago team hit the pavement in Englewood to help get that message out.

Teach for America Seminars Train Future Teachers, Aim to Close Achievement Gap

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:53:00 EDT

For 20 years, Teach for America has been trying to send the best talent to students most in need. Here in Chicago, 400 smart people just finished a boot camp of sorts, with one goal in mind: closing the achievement gap.

First Day of School for Chicago Uno, Learn Charter Students

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:31:00 EDT

Monday is the first day of school for thousands of Chicago charter school students.

Minority Students Scoring Higher in District 102, Thanks to Focused Plan

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EDT

Kids all over the place go to summer school; for many, it's a hot stretch in a warehouse-like school where very little is learned.

Chicago Schools Propose Hike in Property Taxes

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:19:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools is proposing a budget for 2012 that eliminates a $712 million budget gap by raising property taxes to the maximum levels allowed by law.

Chicago Summer Business Institute Students Work Toward a Better Future

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:19:00 EDT

While the markets may be down, stock in some Chicago students just went way up.

Track E CPS Schools Mark First Day of Classes

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:17:00 EDT

School started Monday for thousands of Chicago Public School who attend Track E schools, which run a year-round schedule.

Community Leaders Call for Longer School Day

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:16:00 EDT

Pastors United for Change and CPS parents called on leaders to lenghten Chicago Public School's school day and year at a press conference on Monday at Benneker Elementary School on the South Side.

Emanuel Defends Tax Increase for Chicago Schools

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:14:00 EDT

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is defending a property tax increase the Chicago Public Schools proposes because he says they've made substantial cuts.

Some Suburban Chicago Teachers Make 6 Figures

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:10:00 EDT

A report by the Chicago Tribune shows some teachers working in suburban school districts are making more than $100,000 a year.

Yale Graduate Returns to Chicago to Teach in Her Childhood Neighborhood

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:53:00 EDT

“I have high hopes for this neighborhood,” Yale graduate and Chicago native Timeica Bethel said. “I mean it’s a really good area, it's right next to Midway so it's great real estate so hopefully it becomes something better.”

CTU President: Tax Hike a Band-Aid; Your Zip Code Determines CPS Resources

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:53:00 EDT

Friday night, the Chicago Public Schools Board holds more public hearings on a proposed property tax hike that will equal about $84 more a year for the average household. Chicago Teachers Union President Karen Lewis said it...

Final Public Hearing Held on Proposed CPS Budget

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:52:00 EDT

The Chicago Public School Board will vote in two weeks on a proposed budget that includes a property tax hike. The final public hearing on the plan was held Friday night.

CPS Announces Bonus Program for Principals Based on Private Funding

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:49:00 EDT

After two years of salary freezes, CPS principals will have a chance to earn more, but they'll have to prove they deserve it.

Layoff Notices Go Out to 400 CPS Teachers

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:48:00 EDT

Hundreds of Chicago Public School teachers got some unwelcome news Thursday.

75% of Illinois ACT Scores Not Up to Standards; Overall Results Up

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:47:00 EDT

More than 75 percent of high school graduates in Illinois are not ready for college, according to results from this year’s ACT scores.

Parents Try to Spend Less on More School Supplies

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:44:00 EDT

Stores are sure to be busy the next few days as parents continue their back-to-school-shopping.

CPS Asks Teachers for New Concessions

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:38:00 EDT

Chicago Public School administrators are asking teachers for more concessions to close the budget gap.

Civic Federation Endorses CPS 2012 Budget, Expresses Concerns for Future

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:37:00 EDT

The Civic Federation has analyzed the proposed Chicago Public Schools budget for the coming year and said it supports the plan, but it has concerns about the future.

Chicago Public School Days Will Be 90 Minutes Longer, School Year 2 Weeks Longer

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:33:00 EDT

Chicago Public School officials on Tuesday announced plans to extend the school day by an additional 90 minutes and two weeks, doing so one day after contract talks with the teachers union fell apart.

Chicago Board of Education Approves Property Tax Increase

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:32:00 EDT

The Chicago Board of Education unanimously approved a property tax hike and its new budget on Wednesday, and despite a huge drop in revenue, the budget expands kindergarten and Pre-K programs, and spends more on charter...

Chicago Teachers Union Rejects Two Percent Pay Raise Offer

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:10:00 EDT

Elementary school teachers in Chicago will not be working a longer school day for a two percent pay raise.

CPS Dips into Reserves to Balance Budget on First Day of Year-Round School

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:06:00 EDT

CPS has balanced its budget for this year, but it's been forced to drain its reserves to do it.

University of Illinois Using Technology, Centralized Ordering to Save Millions

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:05:00 EDT

A University of Illinois panel looking for ways to save money in the school's administration is nearly halfway toward its goal of saving $60 million over three years, according to a report released Tuesday to The Associated...

Local School Council Votes to Turn Wendell Smith Elementary into a Charter School

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:05:00 EDT

When a school closes in Chicago, parents are usually the ones who are upset. But on Tuesday, a vote to close Wendell Smith Elementary School on the city's far South Side was actually prompted by parents.

CPS Unveils Beefed Up Curriculum to Go with Longer School Day

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:04:00 EDT

Chicago Public Schools want higher standards to go with a longer school day.

Chicago Teachers' Pension Fund Sues Board of Education Over 'Unfunded' Pensions

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:03:00 EDT

The Chicago Teachers' Pension Fund has filed a lawsuit against the Chicago Board of Education for failing to properly fund its pension.

Jean-Claude Brizard: A Lot Going on Behind the Scenes in CPS-CTU Negotiations

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:02:00 EDT

School starts Tuesday for Chicago Public School students, but the summer has already been filled with activity for CPS administration. Joining us to talk about the new school year and negotiations with teachers was Public...

Illinois Finance Report Like A Scene From 'Groundhog Day': Renda

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 23:11:00 EDT

Governor Pat Quinn’s latest report on the state of Illinois finances seems like the movie “Groundhog Day” – we just keep waking up to the same old story.

Please Donate Food, Time This Holiday Season: FOX Chicago General Manager Mike Renda

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 01:12:00 EDT

For many of us who reside in the Greater Chicago area, the thought of the approaching holidays makes us think of parties and family events with plenty to eat and drink.

Practical Cuts Must Be Made to Chicago Services, Including Library Funding: Renda

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 03:13:00 EDT

Last week’s city budget announcement by the Emanuel administration was met with an emotional response from aldermen and residents alike about proposed cuts and changes to city services. But the strongest negative response...

Union Officials Must Not be Able to Collect Union and City Pensions Simultaneously: Renda

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 04:12:00 EDT

FOX Chicago News first broke the story in August and it has since been amplified by the Chicago Tribune: union officials receive huge pension windfalls in an outrageous manipulation of Illinois pension law.

Mayor Emanuel, Superintendent Brizard, Chicago Teachers Union Must Come Together Fast: Renda

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 06:25:00 EDT

Mayor Rahm Emanuel and School Superintendent Jean-Claude Brizard have not wasted any time in their first 100 days in office pushing forward major reform initiatives for the Chicago Public schools, including:

Did Political Correctness Force Editing of 'Pledge of Allegiance': FOX Chicago GM Mike Renda

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:34:00 EDT

NBC Sports opened its final round coverage of the U.S. Open golf tournament with a montage that showed children reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in a classroom to capture the patriotism of the day.

Governor Quinn, Sign Illinois School Reform Bill: FOX Chicago General Manager Mike Renda

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:16:00 EDT

The Illinois legislature has passed historic school reform legislation and it’s now on to Governor Quinn’s desk for signature. FOX Chicago’s General Manager Mike Renda has a request: Sign it.

Support Illinois School Reform: FOX Chicago General Manager Mike Renda

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:36:00 EDT

In a recent op-ed piece in the Chicago Tribune, Jeb Bush -- former governor of Florida and now Chairman of the Foundation for Excellence in Education -- praised the major reforms the Florida legislature enacted upon the...

Mayor's Office Must Reform Chicago Public Schools: FOX Chicago General Manager Mike Renda

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 22:30:00 EDT

It's been 16 years since the Mayor's Office took control of the Chicago Public Schools. And while reforms have been enacted, they haven't gone far enough. Polls suggest that the voters want action and they want it fast.

Facebook Friend of the Day Pick: Brenda Smiley-Tadlock

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 23:01:00 EDT

It's time for our Facebook Friend of the Day! Today we've selected Brenda Smiley-Tadlock of Ottowa, Ill.