CPS holds community feedback session amid $734M budget shortfall, layoffs
With a shortfall of $734 million in the next budget for the Chicago Public Schools, district leaders on Monday started to brainstorm on solutions with parents, teachers, students, and others.
This came just days after the district laid off more than 1,400 workers — including 400 teachers. In announcing the layoffs this past Friday, CPS said they were due to "delays in the budgeting process."
Everyone acknowledged there will be tough decisions ahead.
Starting on a strong note Monday afternoon at Dyett High School, Chicago Public School leaders made their pitch as they asked parents, students, and CPS staffers for their ideas in fixing looming the budget shortfall.
"This is the place where we need you," said Interim CPS chief executive officer Macquline King.
Those in attendance at the listening session didn't hold back the feedback.
for their ideas to fix the looming 734-million dollar budget shortfall.
"We had to learn how to navigate my voice and speak up when something that I need," one participant said.
Some participants were surprised by what they heard.
"We knew that we were in a financial deficit," said Lena Mitchell, parent to two CPS students. "I just had no idea how big that number actually was, so that was kind of alarming to hear."
District leaders said pension obligations, building maintenance, and services for students with disabilities are among the factors driving the deficit.
They gave some general moneymaking ideas for participants, such as exploring funding through tax increment financing districts, cuts to staff or programs, renegotiating contracts, or furlough and loans.
But the ideas came from all angles. One woman asked why CPS is not taking action with regard to vacant buildings, while another asked about revenue from cannabis dispensaries.
Amid the growing chorus of suggestions, district leaders were tasked with turning them into one harmonious budget.
"I feel like that the first thing that needs to happen is we all need to get on the same page," said Mitchell.
The Monday session was the first of several sessions scheduled for this week.
CPS is also holding what they're calling "public learning sessions" where they will go over some of the budget choices.
The Chicago Teachers Union president has also called on Gov. JB Pritzker to call a special session for school funding.
The budget scheduled for presentation to the board Thursday, Aug. 28.