CPS students back to school Tuesday

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A new year starts Tuesday for the 400,000 students in the Chicago Public School system and while the kids are getting a fresh start, past problems leave the future of the school system in doubt.

Uncertainty is the one word many people use to describe the new school year.

On the final night of summer break, scenes of basketball, a bike ride or barbeque are supposed to occupy the mind. Instead, Chicago Public Schools parents have other concerns.

"They can't continue to use our kids as pawns in their political chess game. They just can't," said Kelly Hutchison.

Hutchison's daughter, Katelyn, heads back to Walter Payton College Prep Tuesday morning. On top of an hour-long commute each way and honors classes, she worries about her teachers.

Teachers are working without a contract right now. The union says a strike in the months to come is a possibility.

So are significant budget cuts. Without pension help from Springfield, more layoffs are possible this winter.

CPS is also being run by a revolving door of administrations. Forrest Claypool is the third CEO in three years. Monday, he was encouraging everyone to focus on the first day.

"All the research shows that children who attend the first day of school are more likely to get a good foothold in school and do well socially and emotionally as well as academically," Claypool said.

With so much uncertainty, community groups say it's up to parents to fill the void.

"We can't control that, but what we can control is getting parents more engaged, more involved, participating in their kids' education," said Phillip Jackson, Black Star Project. "Research shows that's how you make a real difference."

The CTA is offering free rides for students and their parents Tuesday. Students are in class day one will also get free passes to the Museum of Science and Industry.