On First Teacher Furlough Day, CPS Parents Seek Activities For Kids
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Friday was the first of three teacher furlough days ordered by the Chicago Public Schools to save an estimated $30 million. With teachers out of the classroom, parents were forced to find alternative activities for their kids.
Whether they supported the idea of forcing teachers to take an unpaid day off or not, working parents had to find a place to take their children on Friday. CPS offered no contingency plans for parents, so many took advantage of programs offered by the YMCA.
"We're definitely seeing a bump today. It's really great to have this opportunity to engage with these families, and offer an opportunity for children to still be engaged with one another and develop their social skills in a safe environment," said Ashley Kearney, youth development director for YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago.
Kearney said about 45 people registered for programs at the Lakeview YMCA on Friday. They will offer the same program on April 1, when CPS teachers plan a one-day strike.
The YMCA's "School Days Out" program offers games, sports, and other activities in a safe environment for $60 per day; less for YMCA members like Laurie Barry.
"I got the email within really minutes of CPS announcing it, from the local Y here, that they're going to have a 'School Day Out,'" she said.
John Joyce said both he and his wife work, so the YMCA program was a great backup for them.
"They have a lot of fun, they have some friends here, so it's a pretty easy day for us," he said.
Joyce said he supports the furlough days.
"Maybe not ideal, but I think it's something that we need to balance the books. I don't think it's that painful for most people," he said.
Parents at Prieto Math and Science Academy rallied in support of teachers, who – despite not getting paid Friday – led a previously scheduled field trip to the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie.
"It's really important to come together for what's right; to help those that don't have a voice, our students," said 4th grade teacher Andrea Calhoun.
Teachers said parents at Prieto wanted to hold a rally to show their support after CPS ordered the furlough days.
"CPS has really chosen to disrespect us teachers, and our profession," said Celeste Locke, who has been teaching for 17 years.
CPS parents will be in the same position next Friday, when teachers plan a one-day strike.
For April 1, the district has said it will set up 250 free contingency sites where parents can take their kids; including libraries and public parks. A full list of the contingency sites will be released next week.