CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Striking teachers from four Chicago International Charter Network schools and their supporters say they are prepared to remain on the picket line.
A standing room only crowd was enthusiastic as they heard from union leaders and negotiators, strike captains, leaders of sympathetic unions and the head of the Chicago Teachers Union's negotiating team.
Union President Jesse Sharkey said the union has been stuck negotiating with managers on the lowest run of a three-tiered network and said the real decision makers need to be at the bargaining table.
"Bring the decision makers to the table," he said. "Those are the ones who have the power to reach a settlement."
Major differences remain over pay, health benefits, class size and both special education and counseling services.
CTU represents teachers and para-professionals at four of the 14 CICS schools.