CHICAGO – A new law spearheaded by State Senator Mattie Hunter will allow retired teachers to return to Chicago Public Schools without it affecting their pensions.

“This teacher shortage is affecting schools nationally, as well as in our state,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “We must do everything we can to ensure qualified teachers are in the classrooms so our children can get the education they deserve.”

The new law will allow retired members of Chicago Teachers Pension Fund to be re-employed as a teacher or administrator for up to 140 days on a temporary non-annual basis without his or her retirement annuity being cancelled.

“Bringing retired teachers back into the workforce is one way to guarantee that children will be taken care of by qualified educators,” Hunter said. “Retired teachers who are willing to come back are an essential resource to the Chicago Public Schools system, and their service is greatly appreciated in this time of need.”

In April, Governor Pritzker also signed additional bills into law to help combat the teacher shortage crisis.

The new law is effective immediately.