CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) -
Chicago Public Schools CEO Jean-Claude Brizard appeared on Good Day Chicago Friday morning and responded to a report in the Chicago Tribune stating he could be on his way out.
The mayor's office and a Chicago Public Schools spokesperson deny reports in Friday morning's Chicago Tribune that said Brizard could be on his way out as Chicago teachers prepare for their first strike since 1987.
In fact, it's clear Rahm Emanuel isn't happy with the Tribune story at all. At a press conference, the mayor sharply refutes the allegation that Brizard is on thin ice.
"I'm gonna speak for Rahm Emanuel. Nobody will speak for me. He's doing a great job and has my backing. And anybody who thinks they can speak for me hasn't talked to me. As soon as I heard about this, I called Jean-Claud and said 'You can focus on the full school day, full school year. You're doing a great job.'"
There's a reason the mayor is angry about the Brizard story. It could potentially undercut the city's position if union leaders smell weakness at the bargaining table.
Brizard said there are many rumors going around. The CEO said he likes feedback, but reading leaked details about his performance evaluation gave him pause.
The Tribune reports that Brizard's style of management is under fire by the Chicago Board of Education, and that he could take the fall if teachers strike.
According to his annual evaluation, obtained by the Tribune, Brizard reportedly received low marks for how he runs the district – referring to his management and communication styles.
The Tribune said Brizard is on the hot seat on the heels of the Chicago Teachers Union filing a ten day strike notice and ultimately setting a Sept. 10 strike date Thursday.
The report cited a high-ranking education source. Brizard told FOX Chicago News he would have published his own performance evaluation online.
Brizard said he's spoken with Chicago Board of Education members, and they're happy and things are moving. He has spent most of this week touring schools that have implemented the longer school day.
He said his main focus is on finding a resolution on the strike issue and negotiators for the city and the teacher's union plan to work through the Labor Day weekend.
"I'm very confident a strike can be averted if certain conditions are in place. One the adults remain at the table and negotiate in good faith. We can teach and negotiate at the exact same time,' Brizard says.
Brizard said he spoke with the Mayor Rahm Emanuel on the phone Thursday night. He said the mayor has full confidence in him and is giving him full support.
But it wasn't all bad news for the CPS chief executive officer - the report said high school graduation rates and test scores are up.
Brizard also responded to criticism concerning a two week vacation he took in July. He said for the first time in five years, since he's been married, he took time off to introduce his son to his family in New York.
