Union says it received 'serious offer' from CPS during contract talks

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Teachers Union says it has received a "serious offer" from Chicago Public Schools as contract talks wrapped up late Thursday.

The CTU did not release any details of the offer, but union president Karen Lewis in a written statement that "the basic framework calls for economic concessions in exchange for enforceable protections of education quality and job security."

In response, CPS CEO Forrest Claypool said in a statement: "As the CTU leadership said, CPS has put a serious offer on the table that would prevent midyear teacher layoffs. This offer is a true compromise that requires sacrifices from both sides so that we can protect what is most important: the gains our students are making in their classrooms. We will continue to work around the clock to reach consensus on an agreement that is the best interests of our students, educators and parents."

The CTU requires any tentative agreements be approved by a 40-member committee, which is expected to vote on the offer Monday.