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Ok, can we talk about how ridiculous #CPS is being about our CTU Supply Money? Just so non-CPS folks know, CTU members get $250 of supply $ every yr which is reimbursed after we spend it. There are always probs getting reimbursed, but remote learning has taken it to a new level.
This has historically been an issue to the point we won this in our contract fight last year:
Now, here we are in remote learning, w/massive new spending requirements thrown on us. Teachers & staff already spend too much of our own money on school supplies (I spend $1000s a year. The $250 barely makes a dent.) But #CPS has decided to add EXTRA restrictions on purchases.
Last school year, we were approved to get annual subscriptions to online programs (i.e. we got a Raz Kids account.) This year, suddenly, when we MUST use digital resources due to Remote Learning, suddenly subscriptions are NOT allowed. Wha....???
And all the tech & furniture we've invested in to teach from home that our district does NOT provide, things like microphones, cameras, lights, desks, chairs, stands, whiteboards, second screens, in some cases new tablets or computers. None. Of. It. Is. Reimbursed. None.
I have spent MANY 1000s of my own $$ this year. Upgraded internet. Bought tons of digital materials. Materials to send home for learning kits. My principal is great, but we simply were not given school funds to supplements all these expenses.
Where did that $75 million of federal COVID relief funds go?? Cuz I've heard very few stories of actually receiving new tech. And that's mainly for students (also needed!) But our work expenses are NOT being covered. They are not even being acknowledged by CPS leaders.
Then the little we thought we could get back, that whopping $250 a year, is not even being reimbursed!! @ChiPubSchools Please fix this immediately.
@CTULocal1
@CTULocal1
Oh, and a related problem: Remote Learning has understandably led to a drop in enrollment in many schools. We still practice "Student Based Budgeting" for allocating $$ to schools meaning many schools are bracing for cuts very soon (after the 20th day of school attendance count.)
So here we are...massive new spending needs related to moving the entire district fully online coupled with looming individual school budget cuts due to enrollment changes. @ChiPubSchools what is the plan?? We don't even know if we'll be remote or hybrid in November!!!
