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Chicago Teachers Union Criticizes CPS Layoff Plan Amid Budget Crisis

Chicago Teachers Union Criticizes CPS Layoff Plan Amid Budget Crisis

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) officials have announced the layoff of 760 teachers as part of efforts to address a $732 million budget deficit. The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) has strongly opposed the proposal, labeling it as 'dead on arrival.' This development follows the recent approval of a costly CTU contract, which included significant raises for teachers. The financial strain on CPS has been exacerbated by the lack of additional funding from the state, despite the union's argument that fully funding the state's evidence-based formula could provide an extra $1 billion annually to CPS. The district's financial challenges have led to the proposal of five furlough days if additional revenue is not secured, potentially negating the recent salary increases.
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Lisa Ann Walter Supports Teachers with New School Supply Tour

Lisa Ann Walter Supports Teachers with New School Supply Tour

Actress Lisa Ann Walter, known for her role in 'Abbott Elementary,' is spearheading the BIC Supply Ride Bus Tour to provide free classroom supplies to teachers. Walter, whose family includes educators, is passionate about supporting teachers and addressing the lack of resources in schools. The tour will visit cities like Austin, Atlanta, and Chicago, delivering essential supplies directly to educators. Walter's involvement highlights her commitment to education and her desire to use her platform to advocate for teachers.
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Chicago Public Schools Struggle with Rising Special Education Needs and Costs

Chicago Public Schools Struggle with Rising Special Education Needs and Costs

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) are facing a significant increase in special education needs, with nearly 83,000 students requiring individualized education programs or 504 plans. This rise, particularly in autism diagnoses, has doubled since 2019, leading to increased staffing and financial pressures. Despite state and federal funding, CPS is struggling to meet the legal obligations for special education, with costs reaching $1.8 billion in 2026. Calls for increased funding from the state have been met with limited response, leaving CPS to rely heavily on local taxpayer support.
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Cubs 10, Twins 1: Sometimes the Bear(s) get you

Cubs 10, Twins 1: Sometimes the Bear(s) get you

One step forward, two steps back…
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Chicago Faces Unhealthy Air Quality Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke, Outdoor Events Canceled

Chicago Faces Unhealthy Air Quality Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke, Outdoor Events Canceled

Chicago is experiencing unhealthy air quality levels due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. An Air Quality Alert is in effect, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 156, which is considered unhealthy for most people. This situation follows a previous spike in AQI to 747, marking one of the worst air quality levels in the city. The smoke has led to the cancellation of outdoor events, and health experts warn of potential health risks from the pollutants in the smoke. The National Weather Service has extended the Air Quality Alert until Monday for parts of northwest Indiana, and changes in wind direction are expected to improve conditions. However, the smoke may return throughout the week.
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Chicago Faces 'Unhealthy' Air Quality Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke

Chicago Faces 'Unhealthy' Air Quality Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke

An Air Quality Alert is in effect for the Chicago area through Sunday, July 19, 2026, due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. While the air quality has improved compared to Thursday, it remains in the 'unhealthy' category with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 156. The National Weather Service has extended the alert until Monday for parts of northwest Indiana. The air quality is expected to improve overnight into Monday as wind patterns shift. However, the smoke may return later in the week. Additionally, a Level 2 risk for severe weather is forecast for Monday, with potential for strong storms in the evening.
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Canadian Wildfire Smoke Set to Impact Chicago Area Again

Canadian Wildfire Smoke Set to Impact Chicago Area Again

The Chicago area is bracing for another wave of Canadian wildfire smoke, expected to arrive on Saturday night. This follows a brief respite from the smoke that has intermittently affected the region. The smoke originates from ongoing wildfires in Canada, which have been contributing to air quality issues across parts of the United States. Residents are advised to stay informed about air quality levels and take necessary precautions, especially those with respiratory conditions.
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William Shatner to Debut Heavy Metal Band at Riot Fest, Marking a New Career Chapter

William Shatner to Debut Heavy Metal Band at Riot Fest, Marking a New Career Chapter

William Shatner to Debut Heavy Metal Band at Riot Fest, Marking a New Career Chapter
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Wellington Church Joins Sanctuary Movement, Providing Refuge to Central Americans

Wellington Church Joins Sanctuary Movement, Providing Refuge to Central Americans

In 1982, the Wellington Avenue Church in Chicago became the second church in the United States to join the sanctuary movement, offering refuge to Central American refugees fleeing political repression and violence. This movement, rooted in the medieval tradition of churches providing sanctuary, aimed to protect individuals denied asylum in the U.S. due to its support for the governments of El Salvador and Guatemala. The church's decision was part of a broader effort by about 20 Chicago-area churches in the 1980s to provide safe havens for refugees. The sanctuary movement highlighted the tension between U.S. immigration policies and humanitarian efforts by religious organizations.
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Ravenswood On Tap Festival Showcases Chicago's Malt Row Amid Brewery Closures

Ravenswood On Tap Festival Showcases Chicago's Malt Row Amid Brewery Closures

Ravenswood On Tap Festival Showcases Chicago's Malt Row Amid Brewery Closures
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WNBA All-Star Game Rosters Announced: Cooper and Weatherspoon Select Teams

WNBA All-Star Game Rosters Announced: Cooper and Weatherspoon Select Teams

WNBA All-Star Game Rosters Announced: Cooper and Weatherspoon Select Teams
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Chicago Air Quality Alert Issued as Second Wave of Wildfire Smoke Arrives

Chicago Air Quality Alert Issued as Second Wave of Wildfire Smoke Arrives

A second wave of smoke from Canadian wildfires has prompted an air quality alert across the Chicago area. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has declared an Areawide Air Pollution Action Day, with the air quality expected to remain poor through the weekend. The smoke, which began rolling in late Saturday, is not as dense as previous days but still poses health risks, particularly for sensitive groups. The National Weather Service has extended the alert for several counties in Illinois and Northwest Indiana, advising residents to limit outdoor activities and monitor symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.