The Essential CTU Contact Guide: 5 Ways To Reach The Chicago Teachers Union Today

Contents

Navigating the contact information for a major labor organization like the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) can sometimes feel complex, but having the direct, verified phone number is crucial whether you are a member, a journalist, a parent, or a community partner. As of December 22, 2025, the CTU remains a powerful force in Chicago's education landscape, especially following the successful ratification of a new, landmark contract earlier this year.

This comprehensive guide provides the primary contact numbers, physical address, and essential departmental information you need to connect with the CTU's main offices and key services. We have compiled the latest details to ensure you reach the right person quickly, covering everything from membership inquiries to press relations and major legislative issues.

Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) Leadership and Official Contact Information

The Chicago Teachers Union, Local 1 of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), represents nearly 30,000 teachers and educational support personnel working in Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Its headquarters serves as the hub for all union activities, including collective bargaining, member defense, and political action.

Primary CTU Headquarters Contact Details

The main offices for the Chicago Teachers Union and its Foundation are housed at the same location, with two primary phone numbers frequently associated with the organization:

  • CTU Foundation Main Phone: (312) 429-2100
  • CTU Tower Corporation Phone: (312) 329-9100
  • Official CTU Address: 1901 W. Carroll Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60612
  • Fax Number: (312) 329-6205

When calling, it is advisable to try the main Foundation line first, as this often serves as the central switchboard for directing calls to various departments, including Membership Services, the Legal Department, and the Grievance Department.

Key CTU Leadership and Entities

The Union's leadership structure is vital for understanding its operations and political direction. The current leadership, elected by the Caucus of Rank-and-file Educators (CORE), directs the Union's strategy on issues like the CPS contract, school funding, and the expansion of the Sustainable Community Schools initiative.

  • President: Stacy Davis Gates (Took office July 2022)
  • Field Service Director: Zeidre Foster
  • Recording Secretary: Michael E. Brunson
  • Financial Secretary: Maria T.
  • CTU Foundation: A non-profit entity that supports public education initiatives and community partnerships in Chicago.

How to Contact CTU Departments: Membership, Grievances, and Press

Depending on your reason for reaching out, you may need to bypass the general line and contact a specific department. Using the correct email or internal extension can save significant time.

For Active CTU Members: Grievances and Legal Aid

Active members—including teachers, paraprofessionals, school clerks, and other educational support personnel—primarily contact the CTU for workplace issues, contract interpretation, and legal support. The Grievance Department is the most critical resource for these matters.

If you are a member with a work-related issue, you should:

  1. Contact Your Union Representative (UR): This is the first and fastest step for most on-site issues.
  2. Call the Main Office: Use (312) 429-2100 and ask for the Grievance Department or a Contract Administrator.
  3. Email the Grievance Department: Official communications with Chicago Public Schools regarding grievances are often handled via a dedicated email address. For pre-meeting notices, Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs), and supporting documentation, the email is grievancedepartment@ctulocal1.org.

These channels are essential for navigating disciplinary actions, tenure disputes, and issues related to the terms of the recently approved contract.

Press Inquiries and Media Relations

Journalists, researchers, and media outlets seeking official statements, interviews with Stacy Davis Gates, or background on CTU policies (such as the new CPS contract or the school funding formula) should use the official communications channels. While a direct media phone number is not always publicly listed, the best approach is often a direct email to the Communications Director or a dedicated press email, followed by a call to the main switchboard.

  • Best Practice: Call the main CTU line (312) 429-2100 and ask to be immediately transferred to the Communications Department or the Press Secretary.
  • Reasoning: Due to the high volume of media interest, especially during periods of contract negotiations or strike authorization votes, a quick, formal email is usually required before a spokesperson will call back.

The Current Context: Why Contacting the CTU is More Relevant Than Ever

The Union's role in 2025 is defined by several major, ongoing initiatives that make its contact information particularly relevant. The CTU recently secured a significant victory by ratifying a new contract with 97% member approval in April 2025.

Post-Contract Implementation and Policy Advocacy

The new contract is not just about salaries and benefits; it contains major policy shifts that require ongoing oversight and communication. One of the most significant provisions is the agreement to expand the Sustainable Community Schools (SCS) initiative.

The SCS program, which integrates academics, health, and social services, is set to expand to 36 schools for the 2025-26 school year. Community organizations, parents, and principals may need to contact the CTU's Political & Legislative Department or the CTU Foundation to discuss partnerships, funding, and implementation of this initiative.

Future Legislative and Political Action

The CTU is known for its robust political engagement at the city and state levels. Individuals interested in supporting the Union's legislative goals—such as fully funding Chicago Public Schools, advocating for pension security for retirees, or lobbying for teacher certification reforms—should contact the Legislative Affairs Office via the main phone number. The Union's continued focus on rank-and-file organizing and education reform means its contact lines remain active for those looking to participate in or track its political campaigns.

Summary of Essential CTU Contact Points

To ensure you have all the necessary information at your fingertips, here is a consolidated list of the most important contact points for the Chicago Teachers Union:

  • General/Foundation Phone: (312) 429-2100
  • Alternative Office Phone: (312) 329-9100
  • Physical Address: 1901 W. Carroll Ave., Chicago, IL 60612
  • Grievance/Member Issues Email: grievancedepartment@ctulocal1.org
  • Best for Press: Call the main line and request the Communications Department.

Whether you are a veteran educator with a benefits question, a new teacher joining the Union, or a community member tracking the impact of the new contract, these contact details are the gateway to the influential organization that shapes public education in Chicago.

The Essential CTU Contact Guide: 5 Ways to Reach the Chicago Teachers Union Today
chicago teachers union phone number
chicago teachers union phone number

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