Parents Demand Investigation into Principal's Controversial Budget Cuts

Concerns over leadership and budget decisions at Inter American Magnet School dominated recent public comments at a Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Board meeting. Parents and community members expressed their dissatisfaction with Principal Juan Carlos Zayas, alleging he submitted a budget that cut essential teaching positions and the library program without the approval of the Local School Council (LSC). This budget reportedly allocated funds for a new full-time Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) instructor, which many parents and teachers oppose.

During the meeting, multiple speakers highlighted a toxic school environment under Zayas's leadership, citing increased classroom sizes and a lack of teacher assistance. Parents voiced their frustration over the absence of a teaching assistant for first-grade classrooms, which they believe is detrimental to their children's learning experiences. They also criticized the decision to replace library classes with MTSS, arguing that this change undermines students' academic development.

A letter requesting an investigation into Zayas's actions was sent to CPS leadership, but parents reported receiving no response. The LSC voted overwhelmingly in a no-confidence motion against Zayas, reflecting widespread discontent among parents and educators.

In a separate discussion, speakers from Velma Thomas Early Childhood Center raised concerns about potential relocation plans for their school. Parents emphasized the importance of maintaining the school's unique educational environment and called for CPS to secure a permanent home for Velma Thomas, which currently lacks a stable facility despite its successful dual-language program.

Overall, the meeting underscored significant tensions between school leadership and the community, with parents demanding accountability and a commitment to prioritizing student needs in budgetary decisions.