CPS plans contingencies if teachers strike

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago Public Schools officials are making contingency plans in the event the teachers call a strike.

But teachers union leaders claim those moves are premature.

The monthly Chicago Public Schools board meeting was tinged with talk of the school system's budget problems and efforts to avert a teachers strike next month.

Last week, the chief education officer sent a memo to all principals with contingency plans that allow for graduations if there is a strike and urging principals to prepare to close out the school year with suggestions.

In the event of a work stoppage:

-Grades will be entered by May 13

-Final exam schedules can be altered

-Teacher observations will proceed swiftly.

The Chicago Teachers Union vice president says the "school close out" memo only adds to burden of concerned teachers and emphasizes the union has not called for a strike.

As the negotiations for a new contract continue, some CPS parents are anxious for clarity about their children's futures.

A strike could come as early as May 16. Negotiations resume Thursday. Both sides hope CTU's president, Karen Lewis, will be well enough to take part after being treated for cancer.