Michael Petty+FollowWhy Black male teachers matter in ChicagoOnly 3.6% of Chicago Public Schools teachers are Black men, even though most students are kids of color. For many students, seeing a teacher who looks like them isn’t just nice—it’s life-changing. Educators like Wayne Issa and Joshua Smith say students open up more, feel seen, and are easier to reach when they have teachers who share their background. Programs like Call Me MISTER are working to boost these numbers, but the impact is already clear: representation in the classroom can shape confidence, connection, and success. How do you think more diverse teachers could change our schools? #Education #ChicagoSchools #RepresentationMatters00Share
Misty Brady+FollowChicago schools’ secret to better attendanceChronic absenteeism in Chicago’s middle and high schools has doubled since the pandemic, but some schools are bucking the trend. What’s making the difference? It turns out, students are much more likely to show up when they feel safe, have friends, and trust their teachers. This new study from the University of Chicago really drives home how much school climate matters—more than we might think. With nearly 1 in 3 students missing 18+ days, it’s clear that building real connections at school could be the game-changer. How do you think schools can make students feel more connected? #Health #BodyHealth #ChicagoSchools00Share
Jorge Figueroa+FollowChicago’s homegrown push for more DHH teachersChicago Public Schools is tackling its shortage of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) teachers by investing directly in its own staff. Instead of waiting for new hires, CPS is now paying for American Sign Language and graduate-level training for current special ed teachers through a new partnership with Illinois State University. Over 300 educators jumped at the chance, but only 22 made the first cohort. This move could mean more DHH students learning from teachers who truly understand their needs and Chicago’s communities. What do you think—will growing talent from within make a real difference for our schools? #Education #ChicagoSchools #DeafEd00Share
hnguyen+FollowChicago charter school faces tough special ed scrutinyFamilies in Little Village are seeing big changes at Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy after state officials hit the school with the harshest sanction for years of special education failures. For some students, this meant missing out on vital support for nearly their entire high school journey—impacting learning and daily life. The school blames a sudden staff exodus and a tough hiring market, but says it’s now fully staffed and making real progress. With CPS stepping in for regular oversight, many are wondering: Will this finally guarantee the support every student deserves? What do you think needs to change? #Education #ChicagoSchools #SpecialEducation00Share
