There are now 322,106 children attending the city’s public schools, roughly 9,000 fewer than last year. That’s more than 80,000 fewer students than there were a decade ago, when city officials shuttered 50 schools citing low enrollment, and more than 115,000 fewer than were enrolled 20 years ago. The stunning contraction in size raises important questions about the future of the public school

Among their ideas outlined in the paper (also linked here) is converting vacant schools into mental health clinics and affordable housing. At least one of the vacant school buildings – the former Von Humboldt school – was sold with the understanding it would become affordable housing for teachers.

“The ongoing denial of equity to the nearly 90% Black and Brown students at CPS amounts to nothing less than a continuation of the racism, segregation and neglect that for far too long has characterized Chicago‘s public education system. This paper paints a better path forward and the road to real equity for our students and families.”

For years the forest preserve district, advocates and some commissioners have sounded the alarm that the district hasn’t had enough resources. This year the district has a roughly $137 million budget, with more than $78 million in unfunded maintenance over the next five years, such as old roofs at picnic shelters that need to be replaced and parking lots that need to be repaved. And every year, there’s a shortfall of about $10 million for the district’s pension fund.

One in 20 tap water samples taken from thousands of Chicagoans found lead levels at or above federal limits, according to a recent analysis. It also found that nine of the top 10 ZIP codes with the largest percentages of high test results were in neighborhoods with majority Black and Latino residents.

She Tweeted, “This trip will give us the opportunity to tell the Chicago story in Mexico City and open up opportunities for our businesses to either expand or do new trades.”

“…(I)n the Nov. 8 election, when a county referendum will appear on the ballot…(A) nominal increase in the forest preserve property tax — less than $1.66 a month for most homeowners — would allow for the restoration of 30,000 acres, acquiring 27,000 acres over the next 20 years and boosting year-round engagement programs.”

Mayor Lori Lightfoot told the crowd. “Englewood shouldn’t be a community with 30% unemployment. We can change that around. But we’ve got to be intentional about doing it and unapologetic about building Black and brown wealth. We deserve it.”

Republicans see disillusioned voters as path to upset in Illinois governor’s race, though many Democrats remain reluctant to switch parties