While math scores have improved “incrementally” in CPS grade schools, the study found racial gaps in both math and reading widened. more ›

On Friday, Chicago Public Schools officials revealed their plan to borrow up to $800 million to pay their bills, in addition to promising teachers a 4 percent pay increase. Officials have scheduled a special School Board meeting on Tuesday to discuss the borrowing, teacher raises, and a new plan to expand class size for the first time since 1995. more ›

It what may be the most hotly contested teacher's union election in recent memory, Chicago's public school teachers will decided which, if any, of five candidates will head the third largest teacher's union in the nation. Incumbent President Marilyn Stewart is running for re-election, challenged by former CTU President Deborah Lynch, who, Stewart ousted in 2004. Karen Lewis, a teacher at King College Prep and head of a caucus that has gone after the Chicago School Board, Ted Hajiharis, a union staff rep and CTU tresurer Linda Porter, both defectors from Stewart's camp make up the outsiders. more ›

In the wake of several recent protests, including the student walk-out two weeks ago, the Chicago Teachers Union is planning another protest, this one specifically aimed at new class size proposals that could inflate some classes to as many as 37 students per class. According to a brochure from the CTU [PDF], the protest will start at 125 S. Clark St. next Tuesday, May 25, at 4 p.m. more ›

• A disturbing update to last week's NIU shooting.
• A Cook County judge rejected a motion by the Chicago Teachers Union to block the closing and consolidation of a pair of local schools.
• Tammy Duckworth has ever-so-politely withdrawn her name from consideration to run for Lt. Governor.

• Six more confirmed cases of Swine Flu have the grand total in the state of Illinois up to *drumroll* .... Nine.
• Meanwhile, Governor Quinn echoed the sentiment of common sense in saying that riding public transit did not pose any additional health risks.
• Chicago Public Schools and the teachers' union are squaring off over potential changes to the retirement plan.