School board members aligned with the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) are considering an amendment to increase Chicago Public Schools’ (CPS) assumed state revenue. The goal is to reverse cuts at the school level. However, CPS CEO Macquline King criticized this plan in a statement. She warned that relying on unconfirmed state revenue could leave CPS short of funds later. King emphasized the district is in a precarious financial position.
“We will continue to advocate for the funding our students need,” King stated. “But attempting to balance the budget on unrealized state revenue would have devastating consequences.” She pointed out that while the state budget passed in June, it included no additional funding for CPS. District officials say they have no indication of new funds arriving.
The proposed budget of $9.96 billion includes layoffs of over 700 teachers, departmental cuts, and a spending freeze. The amendment’s specifics on new funding are unclear, and the state faces its own $2.2 billion deficit. Yet, CTU has been urging state intervention and saw some progress. Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch committed to pushing for additional funding during the fall session, but details remain sparse.
CTU President Stacy Davis Gates criticized the current budget draft, urging the board to reject it to prevent harm to students. Passing the 2026-27 budget requires a simple majority of the 21-member board, whereas a two-thirds vote is necessary to approve amendments. CTU’s influence on the board is substantial, with 11 members appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson, a former teacher.
After pressure from staff unions, the district raised assumed revenue from special taxing districts to avoid furloughs. The last time CPS relied on unconfirmed state money was in 2017, which led to significant financial challenges when the anticipated funds were vetoed. King, recalling past difficulties, stated, “We should never subject our educators, students, and communities to such instability again.” The district urges passing the budget to secure short-term borrowing to address cash-flow issues.
In tandem, Mayor Johnson filled a vacant school board seat, appointing Connie Anderson to the Southeast Side’s District 10B. Although her appointment was announced, Anderson will not participate in the upcoming budget vote. Anderson has a background in real estate tax law and coaching school robotics teams. Her previous roles and endorsements reflect her support from CTU and alignment with the mayor’s educational priorities.
Connie Anderson’s appointment comes as a replacement for Olga Bautista, who stepped down for sabbatical reasons. Anderson’s advocacy for student and educator welfare reinforces her suitability for this role, according to Mayor Johnson.
Tribune reporter Jeremy Gorner contributed to this report.
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