Chicago Public Schools has canceled some lower-level football games this week because of an issue with referees not getting paid, drawing the interest of at least one state representative and Illinois High School Association officials.
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But the district said Wednesday afternoon that varsity games scheduled for Thursday through Saturday this week will not be affected and that there will be no further cancellations.
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“Chicago Public Schools worked with the vendor that manages payments to referees and expedited efforts (Wednesday) morning to ensure immediate compensation for a portion of sports officials who referee CPS games and were not paid in a timely manner,” a CPS statement said. “The District is working with all partners to strengthen the compensation process and ensure it is consistent going forward.”
Morgan Park coach Chris James confirmed that his program’s freshman and junior varsity games scheduled for Monday and Wednesday, respectively, were canceled. CPS also confirmed that all lower-level games scheduled for Monday and Tuesday were canceled.
State Rep. Kam Buckner, who represents the 26th District — including several South Side neighborhoods — in the Illinois House issued a statement on X about the issue.
“I’ve been made aware that @CPLAthletics officials for fall sports have not been paid for weeks for work already completed and are declining additional assignments until they are paid,” Buckner said. “This has already resulted in canceled games, with more potentially at risk this week and into next week. This is unacceptable.”
Buckner also shared a letter he sent to CPS officials, stressing the importance of resolving the issue.
“These games are not ‘just extracurriculars,’” Buckner said. “They are part of the school experience, they keep our young people engaged and connected, and at this point in the season, cancellations can cost student-athletes critical opportunities to be seen by college recruiters and compete for scholarships.”
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IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson also released a statement.
“The IHSA is aware of the current situation between Chicago Public Schools and IHSA football officials working games for CPS,” Anderson said. “Given that IHSA officials are hired as independent contractors, we have no direct involvement in this matter but are monitoring it closely.
“Officials have a difficult job, and at a time when it is becoming more difficult to recruit and retain officials, it is vital that they be provided the respect they deserve in every step of the process. We expect the situation will be remedied expeditiously so our officials are justly compensated for their work and student-athletes do not have to miss out on any participation opportunities. We are ready and willing to be a resource in any way we can to help resolve this matter.”