catalyst-chicago.org

In a letter to the editor, a Chicago teacher explains why he participated in the big CTU rally on Wednesday: "…the privatized educational system that is being proposed by the current administration will cause irreparable harm to our students, schools, communities and our careers."

A Sun-Times editorial seems to almost come to the defense of the CTU, saying "Chicago teachers have had it." But the newspaper criticized the union for "doing little real bargaining" in its contract negotiations with CPS.

CPS communications on Thursday sent links to its online information pages that it says are intended to “clear up misleading claims” about the district’s contract proposals and to provide information on the collective bargaining process.

CPS teachers say more than dollars and cents at stake in next contract. (Medill Reports)

Columbia College Chicago is considering altering its admissions policies to be more selective as part of a Blueprint for Action 2016 strategic plan that could hurt some students if approved. (Sun-Times)

IN THE NATION
The teachers union in Detroit is planning to file what is being called a monumental lawsuit against the Detroit Public Schools that could test the limits of the state tenure law. The Detroit Federation of Teachers, which represents more than 5,000 teachers, counselors, school psychologists, school social workers, and other employees of Detroit Public Schools, will hold a press conference today. (Detroit Free Press)

High school students work harder and are more focused on school than they were a generation ago, suggests a special analysis in “The Condition of Education 2012,” and the economic downturn may highlight an opportunity to put more of them on the path to college. (Education Week)

Above all other major life goals like marriage or fulfilling careers, today's college students and recent graduates are looking for financial security, a new survey finds. (NYT)