CTU President Jesse Sharkey reiterates calls for remote learning in fall for CPS

ByABC7 Chicago Digital Team WLS logo
Tuesday, July 21, 2020
CTU President Jesse Sharkey reiterates calls for remote learning in fall for CPS
CTU President Jesse Sharkey spoke with ABC7 about teachers' opposition to in-person learning to start the school yaer.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A big question for many Chicago families right now is what will school look like in the fall?

Chicago Public Schools are planning for a combination of remote learning and in-person instruction. The Chicago Teachers Union says that is not safe.

CPS, mayor release hybrid learning framework for possible Chicago school reopenings in fall

CTU president Jesse Sharkey joined ABC7 Tuesday morning to talk about teachers' position.

"Right now, we just don't think it is safe. The virus is spiking. It is moving the wrong direction and it's really important that the public build confidence in public schools and going back in-person is not the right call right now," Sharkey said.

RELATED: Chicago Public Schools CEO Janice Jackson discusses CPS back-to-school framework

Sharkey also expressed concerns that CPS might not have the resources necessary to mitigate risk from COVID-19.

Full CPS preliminary reopening framework

Students will have the option to opt-out of in-person instruction, CPS said. Staff with medical or caretaking needs will have their leave of absence or accommodation requests assessed in late July.

Families, students and staff can submit feedback through July 31. Click here to take the CPS survey.

CPS will also hold five meetings (three in English, two in Spanish). You must register in advance to participate.

  • Monday, July 27, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.; English; register at cpsreopeningconversation1.eventbrite.com
  • Tuesday, July 28, from 4 to 5:30 p.m.; Spanish; register at cpsreopeningconversation2.eventbrite.com
  • Wednesday, July 29, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.; Spanish; register at cpsreopeningconversation3.eventbrite.com
  • Thursday, July 30, from 4 to 5:30 p.m.; English; register at cpsreopeningconversation4.eventbrite.com
  • Friday, July 31, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.; English; register at cpsreopeningconversation5.eventbrite.com