Chicago Schools and Union Reach May Day Deal

Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Teachers Union announced a compromise on Thursday to keep classes in session on May 1, 2026, while designating the day as a district-wide focus on civic engagement, allowing students and staff to optionally participate in International Workers' Day activities.

The agreement ends weeks of tension between the union and district leadership over the annual May Day observance, which this year includes nationwide protests against President Donald Trump's policies on immigration and labor rights. The Chicago Teachers Union had pushed for a full cancellation of classes, arguing it would enable educators and students to join rallies and demonstrations. CPS CEO and Superintendent Dr. Macquline King resisted, emphasizing the need for instructional time and potential disruptions to events like Advanced Placement testing and athletics at over 200 schools.

Under the deal, schools will follow a modified schedule with morning civic education lessons and activities from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by an optional afternoon field trip to a 1 p.m. rally in Union Park. The district will provide buses and bag lunches for up to 100 schools, or bus cards if...