CPS School Drama

The most recent tussle between the CPS Administration, along with City Hall, and the teacher's union over lengthening the school day by 90 minutes with a 2% pay raise is causing some real consternation among all parties.

City Hall and the CPS guru's not only want to see the school day lengthened they also want to add more instruction days to the calendar.

I am close enough in working with the schools to realize that the day and year needs to be extended. I think most people realize both of these need to take place. However, as the saying goes, 'the devil is in the details' concerning the entire plan.

To be perfectly blunt about it, I am not close enough to anyone on either side of the argument to offer an opinion on the many details about the plan and compensation package since I haven't seen the entire plan.

The kids need the additional help, that is for sure. But some real concerns have to be raised about the plan. For example, how will the 90 minutes be used? Is there to be 'new' curriculum and, if so, how will this be implemented? How will the 90 minutes be added on to the school day, at the start or end of it and will this affect families, transportation and extra curriculars? Is a 2% raise a 'fair' one in light of current economic problems and the significant time required of staff? Finally, what more is required of staff that has not been disclosed?

One thing is for sure, the pressure is on in terms of schools doing more for the children. This is one of those 'mountains to climb' that will necessitate people coming together to tackle a huge problem and if there isn't sufficient 'give and take,' the problem will remain.

Dick