Brizard Rumor Isn't True, Emanuel Says

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Friday, brushed off questions about a report that he planned to boot his hand-picked Chicago Public School CEO Jean-Claude Brizard from his post atop the school system.

"Its just that, rumor," Emanuel said when asked if the rumor was true. "I speak for Rahm Emanuel. No one else does. He's (Brizard's) doing a great job".

The Chicago Tribune reported late Thursday that Emanuel is very frustrated with Brizard and could let him go as soon as a new contract is reached.

Both Brizard and Emanuel deny the reporting is accurate.

"I spoke with the mayor last night," Brizard told NBC Chicago on Friday. "He's got complete confidence in my leadership, we're working hand-in-hand. In fact his message to me was, 'Focus, get this done, make sure our schools open on time.'"
 
Negotiations with teachers continue, but the union voted unanimously Thursday to hit the picket lines on Sept. 10, the earliest teachers can strike after filing a 10-day notice this week.

"We're tired of being bullied, belittled and betrayed," CTU president Karen Lewis said at a news conference following the vote. "We have done everything asked of us, yet we continue to be vilified and treated with disrespect."



 
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