Chicago teachers to vote on strike

Teachers rally in Chicago
Striking Chicago teachers and their supporters attend a rally at Union Park on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012, in Chicago. An estimated 25,000 people gathered in the park in a show of solidarity as negotiations on a labor contract continue. Chicago Teachers Union President Karen Lewis reported the "framework" for an agreement has been reached and union delegates are expected to decide Sunday if they should end the strike.
Getty Images/Scott Olson

By TAMMY WEBBER, Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) -- Parents and striking Chicago teachers are waiting to learn whether students will return to the classroom Monday.

Union leaders and the school district have been working throughout the weekend on the exact wording of a potential contract that would give teachers a raise, but also require tougher evaluations.

Both sides were hopeful the union's House of Delegates would vote Sunday afternoon to suspend the strike so classes could resume Monday. But union leaders say the walkout will continue until the language is approved and delegates accept it.

Thousands of teachers and allies rallied Saturday in a Chicago park in a boisterous show of strength and solidarity. Many say the Chicago walkout signals a turning point for unions nationwide.

More than 350,000 students were idled when the walkout began last Monday.

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