Chicago Public Schools Rehire Over 300 Employees Amid Financial Challenges

As students returned to campuses, Chicago Public Schools welcomed back over 300 full-time employees this week. These employees, previously laid off during the summer, have been rehired, with nearly 150 returning to their former roles at the request of their principals. This update was shared by Jerry Taylor, Deputy Chief Talent Officer, during a virtual budget meeting.

The district’s amended $10.1 billion budget, aimed at bridging a $732 million deficit, will not suffice to restore all 700 positions cut earlier. Though it’s unclear how many more teaching roles will be filled, the district plans to deploy available staff in critical positions identified by principals. However, $100 million in state funds allocated in the budget falls short in reinstating all lost jobs.

Despite these challenges, the school system boasts an improved teacher vacancy rate of 1.6% for the 2026-27 academic year, a reduction from 2.2% earlier in the month. Last year, this rate stood at 2.5%. Additionally, vacancy rates for special education staff and bilingual teachers have decreased to 1.8% from 2.4% and 2.1%, respectively.

“These vacancies aren’t empty classrooms. They have students who need teaching staff, and it’s crucial to identify and hire needed educators,” said CEO Macquiline King. “We’ve made progress but must continue efforts, especially on Chicago’s south and west sides.”

CPS faces ongoing financial stress as the school year progresses. Under the state’s funding model, CPS is only 70% funded. In July, to press lawmakers, the school board passed a budget amendment including $150 million in unconfirmed state funds, ensuring restoration of the cut positions. District leaders have warned of potential midyear cuts if this funding does not come through, a concern King emphasized after recent discussions with legislators.

King mentioned that while meetings included building relationships and increasing advocacy, securing the anticipated funding remains uncertain. “In discussions with lawmakers, it’s been emphasized that without required funding, mid-year classroom cuts may be inevitable,” stated King. Additionally, King assured ongoing advocacy for comprehensive district funding and regular updates on budget performance.