Chicago public schools cancel classes after teachers’ union vote

Union called for remote instruction until cases substantially subside' or leaders approve an agreement for safety protocols

Leaders of Chicago public schools canceled classes on Wednesday after the teachers' union voted to switch to remote learning due to the surge in Covid cases, the latest development in an escalating battle over pandemic safety protocols in the nation's third-largest school district.

Chicago has rejected a districtwide return to remote instruction, saying it was disastrous for children's learning and mental health. But the union argued the district's safety protocols are lacking and both teachers and students are vulnerable.