The president of the union representing principals and administrators in Chicago Public Schools has expressed concerns regarding recent comments made by Stacy Davis Gates, the President of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU). The union leader has conveyed worry about what he refers to as “incendiary language” used by Davis Gates and others.

Alleged Threats and Safety Concerns

Reports suggest that Davis Gates allegedly instructed union members to physically confront William Hozian, the principal of Stevenson Elementary School on the South Side, with the union leader reported to have said, “punch your principal in the face.” Hozian, feeling threatened, filed a report with the Chicago Police Department on January 26, though the matter was deemed non-criminal.

Union’s Response and Figurative Interpretation

The CTU leadership responded to the accusations, dismissing Davis Gates’ comments as “figurative.” They asserted that the language used was part of impromptu remarks made during discussions about challenging principals who bully union members.

Union President’s Letter to CPS CEO

Troy LaRaviere, the President of the Chicago Principals and Administrators Association, wrote a letter on February 2 to Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez expressing concern about Davis Gates’ comments. LaRaviere claimed that the CTU President’s remarks were part of a broader pattern of “undermining and disruptive behavior” by CTU members and delegates, particularly targeting school principals.

Allegations of a Larger Pattern

The letter alleges a larger pattern of CTU members making unproven allegations against school principals and administrators as part of a “protracted divisive campaign.” LaRaviere contends that such actions create a “hostile work environment for principals and an underdeveloped learning environment for children.”

Board Accountability and Contract Challenges

LaRaviere called for the Board to hold Davis Gates accountable, labeling her public threat as “unprofessional, unethical, and unbecoming of any educator or leader associated with the District and District employees.” The letter mentioned that the alleged threats followed unproven and unexamined allegations made by two Stevenson staff members who are also CTU delegates.

CTU’s Response and Contract Expiry

In response to news coverage, CTU leaders defended Davis Gates, asserting that the police report was filed in reference to a figurative comment. They claimed that the intentional mischaracterization aimed to smear the union, comparing it to a bad manager attempting to bully workers. The union’s labor contract with Chicago Public Schools is set to expire on June 30.

CPS Statement and Support for Staff

A spokesperson from Chicago Public Schools released a statement acknowledging the non-criminal report filed with the police. The statement mentioned providing staff with necessary supports but refrained from commenting on the specific details of the incident.

For the full text of the letter, follow this link.