Tell the CPS School Board: Implement the Educators' Agenda

Dear Chicago School Board,

I am thrilled to support the Educators’ Agenda.

As Chicago sees our first elected school board members take office there has never been a greater need for a powerful bloc of student-focused, democratically-minded teachers to stand up and make their voices heard.

Through focus groups, policy study sessions, and educator feedback we are proud to present our educator priorities for the new school board. We urge the board to prioritize:

• Educators' mental health, because only 19% of teachers report that the teaching profession is sustainable.
• Student mental health, because 40% of high schoolers report symptoms of depression and even higher rates among LGBTQ+ youth. 
• Addressing the needs of diverse learners, because only 23% of educators believe their schools meet the academic needs of all students.
• Enhancing the school experience of diverse learners, because too often, students with disabilities, English learners, and their teachers are excluded from extracurricular activities and decision-making processes.
• By establishing the Black Student Achievement Committee as mandated by SB15, CPS can uplift black students’ needs and prioritize student success for black students.

I ask that you prioritize the voices of educators, not special interests, as we work to build a CPS that works for all kids.