The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) recently faced ridicule after a social media post revealed a significant mistake. A flyer, intended to rally support for contacting Governor JB Pritzker, included a misspelling of the word “Governor.” The error captured attention on multiple platforms, including X, Facebook, and TikTok. School choice advocate Corey DeAngelis highlighted the blunder, prompting the CTU to hurriedly delete the original post.
DeAngelis didn’t hold back in his criticism, pointing out the irony of a teachers’ union struggling with basic spelling. He remarked, “If the union can’t handle simple spelling on a flyer, imagine the oversight in their classrooms.” Such comments underscore a broader frustration with the union’s competency in addressing educational issues in the Chicago school system. His remark that “no wonder so many kids in Chicago can’t read” paints a dire picture of the state of education.
The misspelling adds to an already troubled landscape for the CTU. Recent scrutiny revealed significant financial mismanagement. The Chicago Public Schools Office of Inspector General reported $23.6 million in improper expenses related to travel. Furthermore, the CTU has been called out for its failure to complete financial audits, leaving members in the dark about how their dues are being spent. A letter from the House Education and Workforce Committee to union President Stacy Davis Gates noted the lack of accountability, as no financial audits have been provided since 2020.
In an alarming juxtaposition, while the union pushes for additional funds—$50 billion, including a demand for a 9% wage increase, fully funded abortions for members, and more services for migrants—they face criticism over the academic performance crisis. Reports indicate that in 30 schools across Illinois, not a single student is reading at grade level; 22 of those are located in Chicago. The math performance is equally concerning, with 53 schools recording no students achieving grade-level proficiency; 33 of them situated within the city.
The CTU’s recent missteps and the overarching issues within the Chicago education system raise serious concerns about the union’s priorities. With demands for financial support while students struggle academically, parents and educators alike are left questioning the union’s true commitment to improving education in Chicago. The emphasis on social issues and union benefits over fundamental educational needs signals a disconnect that only exacerbates the struggles faced by students in the city.
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