Responding to the union's announcement, CPS chief Jean-Claude Brizard issued a statement Wednesday evening, saying "everyone knows that a strike would only hurt our kids."



"(Students) can't afford to be removed from the classroom just as they're making progress with the new full school day," Brizard said. "That's why we'll continue to meet every day until we reach a fair resolution for our teachers and avoid any disruption to our kids' school year. If CTU leadership decides to strike, we will be prepared to provide our students with the services they need to keep them fed and in a safe environment with positive activities."



Lewis said the two sides have made strides during contract talks on "small issues," such as winning provisions for teachers who are nursing mothers and ensuring text books for students in schools with limited resources.



But, Lewis said, the biggest issues still remain, such as teacher raises and a re-hiring pool for those who've been laid off. Contract talks will continue all this week, and likely through the weekend, Lewis said.



"CPS seems determined to have a toxic relationship with its employees," Lewis said.