As the Chicago teachers’ strike entered its sixth school day, the hundreds of school buildings, libraries, non-profits and other sites providing alternate activities for students were open again to provide children a safe haven while school is out.
Police are looking for a 12-year-old girl who was reported missing after she left one of the sites established by the Chicago Public Schools to provide activities for students during the teachers’ strike.
Hours at schools currently open during the teachers’ strike will be expanded, starting Thursday.
Parents have been taking their kids to 144 “Children First” sites for alternative activities and meals, but it turns out picketing teachers are showing up at the sites too.
Parents of public school students were feeling mixed emotions as they sent kids to half-day programs at scores of Chicago Public Schools sites on Monday during the teachers’ strike, while others were confused when they learned teachers had walked off the job.
The first Chicago teachers’ strike in 25 years has left parents and students scrambling to find alternatives for their children.