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Chicago Students Back, Teachers on Strike - Valley News Live - KVLY/KXJB - Fargo/Grand Forks

Chicago Students Back, Teachers on Strike

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More than 26,000 Chicago teachers are hitting the picket lines Monday as they strike for the first time in 25 years. Talks with the union and the school district broke down Sunday night ending months of tense negotiations.

Chicago Teachers Union officials say there's been progress in contract talks but the two sides were too far apart on key issues to prevent a strike. The district is offering a 2% pay raise over four years. The union is seeking a 19% raise.

Chicago Teachers Union President Karen Lewis said late Sunday there had been some progress in contract talks, but "we have failed to reach an agreement that will prevent a labor strike."

Lewis says teacher pay and job security were among the major issues that have kept tense, closed-door negotiations going.

Meanwhile, city officials vow to keep the district's nearly 400,000 students safe until teachers return to the classroom.

City officials say more 144 schools will be open between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. so children can eat lunch and breakfast and have structured activities. Churches, libraries and other facilities will offer a place to spend the afternoon.

Police Chief Garry McCarthy officers will be at schools for kids' safety and to deal with potential protests and he'll send more into the streets to keep an eye on kids.

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