CTU President Stacy Davis Gates Compares CPS CEO to Special Education Student
A Controversial Comparison Sparks Outrage
Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates is coming under fire for comparing CEO Pedro Martinez to a special education student who can’t be suspended at a meeting before hundreds of elected members on Wednesday.
Context Behind the Comment
The comment was made during a meeting where Davis Gates was expressing her frustration with contract negotiations that the union says have stalled since Martinez was given a six-month notice of termination by the Chicago Board of Education in late December.
A Sudden Apology
After making the comment, Davis Gates apologized immediately, stating, “I regretted the way I tried to get my point across and immediately apologized. I’ll absolutely do better, but more importantly, I and my union will continue to fight for CPS to do better for our students.”
Reaction from Special Education Advocates and Parents
Some special education advocates and parents have called her comment “appalling” and “heartbreaking.” One special education teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, told WBEZ that the comment displayed an “alarming lack of understanding about special education.” Students with disabilities are disproportionately suspended and subject to exclusionary discipline, and CPS special education students can be suspended for no more than 10 days without a hearing.
Support from Some Teachers
However, another teacher, who also wished to remain anonymous, said: “I feel like she authentically apologized. She did not mean to insult any child. Like anyone else, she should have chosen better words, saying what came to mind, instead of strategically thinking.”
Union’s Stance on Special Education
Davis Gates has strongly advocated for more teachers and supports for students with disabilities, and her record stands in contrast to her off-the-cuff remark.
CPS’s Response
CPS has denied any wrongdoing, citing its efforts to provide support to students with disabilities. However, the union argues that CPS continues to deny children support by leaving hundreds of positions vacant.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Davis Gates’ comment highlights the ongoing struggles of the CTU and its members in advocating for students with disabilities. While the union’s efforts to provide support for these students are commendable, the use of a special education student as a comparison was seen as inappropriate by many. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for greater understanding and sensitivity towards students with disabilities.
FAQs
* What was the context behind Davis Gates’ comment?
The comment was made during a meeting where Davis Gates was expressing her frustration with contract negotiations that the union says have stalled since Martinez was given a six-month notice of termination by the Chicago Board of Education in late December.
* Did Davis Gates apologize for her comment?
Yes, Davis Gates apologized immediately after making the comment, stating that she regretted the way she tried to get her point across and would do better in the future.
* What was the reaction from special education advocates and parents?
Some special education advocates and parents called her comment “appalling” and “heartbreaking,” while others felt that she authentically apologized and should have chosen better words.
