In the News: CPS CEO sends a letter to parents; Breakfast in Classroom still rolling out

Chicago Public Schools parents will receive a letter from CEO Jean-Claude Brizard that outlines his administration's plans to address the district's fiscal crisis without harming classroom instruction, according to district sources. In the letter obtained by the Tribune, Brizard tells parents of his intention to keep certain classroom programs in place, even though CPS faces a $720 million deficit and $77 million in budget cuts for the coming fiscal year. Brizard concedes in the letter that some schools will face cuts to supplemental teaching positions and other staff, forcing schools to fall back on discretionary funds to save those jobs. WBEZ's Linda Lutton reports on the new Breakfast in the Classroom program in Chicago Public School, where the last schools in the district to implement the program are coming online Thursday. In the state The Springfield School Board on Monday approved the resignation of the district’s coordinator of innovative projects and grants, Sara Vincent. (State Journal Register) In the nation A number of newly elected Republican governors in political battleground states who have pushed sweeping, controversial changes in education policy into law have seen their approval ratings slide since taking office. (Education Week) An evaluation program in Maryland features senior teachers mentoring newcomers as well as veterans. A panel determines the fate of those who do not succeed. (The New York Times) NBC News' Education Nation goes to Philadelphia just in time for a budget crisis, layoffs. The week-long focus on education includes a Teacher Town Hall, interviews of local education figures by big-name TV stars, extended TV pieces about new initiatives and a flashy exhibition on the lawn of the National Constitution Center. (The Notebook) Democrats raise new concerns about charter schools. (The Washington Post) The Common Application widely used for college admissions by high school seniors has set a 250-500 limit for the essay as part of the 2011-12 college admissions season because essays written without any limits had become too long and poorly written, the organization said. (The Washington Post) A bill that would give school districts the power to furlough teachers and unilaterally cut their pay cleared a major hurdle in the Texas Senate Monday. (KUT News)