I commend the Board for their courage in facing the hard-truth of a $712 million deficit. I appreciate their vigilance in minimizing cuts to our children’s classrooms and their commitment to ensuring the public schools are accountable to Chicago’s taxpayers.  In addition, I want to thank the dedicated teachers and administrators who will make the sacrifice in the interest of improving our children's education.  I look forward to working with them to give our children the tools they need to compete and win in the economy of the future. 

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