Labor

Report: Chicago Teachers Union is new Chicago political machine

Report: Chicago Teachers Union is new Chicago political machine

Years of exorbitant political spending in Illinois – more than $24.3 million since 2010 – has secured an enormous amount of political influence for the Chicago Teachers Union. It is now the main political player not just in Chicago, but across the state.

By Mailee Smith

Vallas: What to know about Chicago Public Schools budget

Vallas: What to know about Chicago Public Schools budget

Chicago Public Schools just passed a $9.9 billion budget that spends nearly $30,000 per student. Despite receiving most city property taxes, boosted state funding and about 40% of federal aid, the new teachers contract will put the budget in the red.

By Paul Vallas