Chicago Public Schools Lay Off Over 1,200 Custodians Amid Budget Cuts
Laid-off custodians from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) are expressing deep frustration and anxiety after receiving unexpected layoff notices. Over 1,200 custodians were affected by these cuts on August 1, 2023, as part of the district’s strategy to save approximately $40 million amid a staggering $734 million budget deficit.
Rebeca Salazar, a custodian at McNair School of Excellence for the past three years, was shocked to learn of her layoff. Known affectionately as “Miss Becky” by students and staff, the 65-year-old had dedicated 25 years to serving CPS, ensuring a clean environment for children. With her husband also receiving a layoff notice, Salazar faces uncertainty regarding her financial stability, particularly concerning medical insurance costs for her diabetic spouse.
“It’s like a slap in the face,” Salazar remarked, highlighting the emotional toll of the decision. “CPS didn’t think about the kids, they didn’t think about us, they didn’t think about anything.”
Impact on School Environment and Community Relationships
The layoffs come at a crucial time as the new school year begins, leaving many custodial positions unfilled. CPS officials have assured that cuts will not affect classroom staffing, but the absence of familiar custodians may alter the learning environment for students. The Service Employees International Union Local 1, which represents privatized custodians, voiced concerns that the reduction in staff could compromise cleanliness and safety in schools.
According to Bailey Koch, Communications Director for SEIU Local 1, the remaining custodians will face increased workloads. “We’ve heard time and time again that CPS schools are not clean enough,” Koch stated.
Custodians like Salazar have formed strong bonds with students, often serving as mentors and confidantes. Many of the children, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, find comfort in the relationships they have built with custodians over the years. Salazar, who speaks Spanish fluently, often reassures students struggling with language barriers, sharing her own immigrant experiences to inspire them.
Uncertain Future for Laid-Off Workers
While some laid-off custodians may find new positions under SEIU Local 73, which represents public sector employees, around 500 custodians will remain unemployed after the transition. Salazar has received job applications but is uncertain about her future, as the pay cut significantly impacts her financial plans.
Maria Avila, Vice President of SEIU Local 1 and a custodian for 11 years, echoed Salazar’s concerns. “It’s going to be so hard for custodians, hard for the kids, hard for the teachers, because they trust all of the custodians right now,” Avila noted. Her worries extend beyond her own job security to the overall cleanliness of schools, as she observes parents and staff expressing concerns about the impact of these cuts.
The political landscape surrounding the layoffs adds another layer of complexity. SEIU Local 1 and Local 73 have come together to advocate for their members, insisting that CPS needs to provide clarity on the rehiring process and the timeline for new job placements.
Both unions previously supported Mayor Brandon Johnson, but relations have become strained following accusations from Local 73 regarding the Chicago Teachers Union’s attempts to absorb certain roles into its own contract.
As the CPS board deliberates on budget proposals, the pressure is mounting to find a solution that balances financial constraints with the needs of the school community.
While the future remains uncertain for laid-off custodians like Salazar and Avila, they continue to hope for a resolution that acknowledges their contributions to the school environment and the well-being of students. Salazar expressed her desire for CPS to consider the impact of their decisions on both workers and the children they serve: “I hope CPS still considers us…and makes this a decision where everybody will be at least happy.”
