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Chicago Teachers Union Pushes for May 1 Class Cancellations

4/17/2026

30 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Chicago Teachers Union demands class cancellations on May 1 to let teachers attend International Workers’ Day protests for workers' rights.
Mayor Brandon Johnson appears supportive, reflecting a history with the union.
Chicago Public Schools, led by Macquline King, will not change the calendar and will keep classes.
The dispute comes as Johnson faces low approval ratings, and the union's request could alienate parents ahead of his re-election.

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Story summary

The Chicago Teachers Union demands class cancellations on May 1 to let teachers attend International Workers’ Day protests for workers' rights.
Mayor Brandon Johnson appears supportive, reflecting a history with the union.
Chicago Public Schools, led by Macquline King, will not change the calendar and will keep classes.
The dispute comes as Johnson faces low approval ratings, and the union's request could alienate parents ahead of his re-election.