Chicago Public Schools has proposed a $9.9 billion budget aimed at addressing a $505 million deficit, prioritizing school facility upgrades and staffing increases while negotiating salary adjustments with unions.
Chicago Public Schools Proposes $9.9 Billion Budget to Address Deficit and Enhance School Facilities
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has put forward a $9.9 billion budget to address a deficit now estimated at $505 million, up from an initial projection of $490 million. The budget includes a $500 million increase from the previous year, primarily aimed at maintaining and upgrading school facilities for safety. However, it does not yet factor in anticipated salary increases pending negotiations with teachers and administrators said to the article in Chicago Tribune.
The proposed budget for Chicago Public Schools emphasizes operational funding, with a significant $149 million increase over last year. This boost aims to support essential services for special education students, fulfill state-mandated funding for charter schools, and expand bilingual programs. Nearly 70% of the total budget is allocated to salaries and benefits for staff. Additionally, the budget plans to hire over 800 new full-time employees to accommodate a growing student population.
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$9.9 Billion Budget: Chicago Public Schools Looks to Address $505 Million Deficit and Prioritize Teaching and Learning (PHOTO: Audacy)
Chicago Public Schools Focuses on Educational Improvement Amid Financial Concerns
CEO Pedro Martinez emphasized the budget’s commitment to improving teaching and learning environments amid projected increases in student enrollment and the rising needs of diverse student groups. Chicago Public Schools, however, remains concerned about future financial challenges, citing ongoing disparities in state funding for critical areas like teacher pensions and special education services. The budget awaits approval after upcoming public hearings, highlighting CPS’s efforts to manage financial pressures while striving to maintain educational quality across Chicago’s largest school district.
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