Statement by Amy Wilkins, Vice President of The Education Trust, On The End Of The Chicago Teachers Strike
WASHINGTON (September 19, 2012) Last night, Chicago’s teachers did the right thing by voting to end their strike while the final details of a new employment contract are negotiated. As a result, after nine long days, 350,000 schoolchildren more than 80 percent of whom come from low-income families are finally back in the classroom.
The framework for this new contract is an important step forward in providing the citys educators with the feedback and support they want and need to improve their practice and most importantly the success of their students. Once a new evaluation system is in place, it will be critical for district officials and school administrators to create the kinds of positive school cultures and working environments that will help Chicago’s students reach much higher levels of achievement.
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