The Chicago Teachers Union submitted its demands for a new contract Tuesday in advance of a new city administration. The teachers are seeking a 5% increase in pay and a mandated maximum classroom size, as well as more complete staffing of librarians and nurses. While the teachers' contract does not expire until the end of June, the union is hoping to begin negotiations with the current mayor, Rahm Emmanuel, in order to have the process well under way by the time he leaves office in the spring. Although the demands come at a time when public school teachers in Los Angeles are striking, under Illinois law, the teachers are prohibited from striking over many of the issues raised. Representatives of Chicago Public Schools have not yet commented on what counter-proposal they may make.
See "'Where will the money come from? Rich people,' Chicago Teachers Union says as it seeks increased pay, staffing in contract", Juan Perez Jr., Chicago Tribune, January 16, 2019