Chicago teachers say strike in practice vote

CHICAGO (AP) - The Chicago Teachers Union says a practice strike vote has shown its members may be willing to walk off the job in the event there are massive layoffs next year.

CTU spokeswoman Stephanie Gadlin says about 95 percent of members participated in last week's vote. She added that 97 percent said to strike.

Gadlin said Monday union leaders weren't surprised by what they learned, adding that a final analysis of the vote is still being prepared. A teachers strike would be the second in four years.

Chicago Public School leaders are asking Springfield for help in closing a $480 million gap in its operating budget. The shortfall stems from years of unpaid pension obligations. That help hasn't been forthcoming.

CEO Forrest Claypool warns of devastating layoffs if the money doesn't come.