Story perspectives

Chicago Schools Grant May Day Off for Protests, Students Affected

4/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) is pursuing class cancellations on May Day to permit participation in protests.
Macquline King, Chicago Public Schools CEO, initially rejected the request, citing disruptions to academics.
King reversed the decision during a closed school board meeting to allow the day off in exchange for a June professional development day.
The plan creates uncertainty for over 315,000 students and their families, while school board votes soon.

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Story summary

The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) is pursuing class cancellations on May Day to permit participation in protests.
Macquline King, Chicago Public Schools CEO, initially rejected the request, citing disruptions to academics.
King reversed the decision during a closed school board meeting to allow the day off in exchange for a June professional development day.
The plan creates uncertainty for over 315,000 students and their families, while school board votes soon.