The Chicago Public Schools' chief says the district will have to issue layoff notices by Thanksgiving if there's no financial help from the state. CEO Forrest Claypool says the timeline allows preparation for the school year's second semester. A ready answer appears elusive. Chicago Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan said last week he opposes a Senate-endorsed measure Claypool believes would see the schools out of their fiscal mess. School officials approved a budget this summer that included $480 million in state assistance. It has not materialized. Democrats who control the General Assembly and Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner have been unable to agree on a state budget - although Rauner signed legislation to keep public schools operating.
CPS to issue more layoffs without state assistance
