CHICAGO, Ill. (NBC) - Chicago teachers are refusing to back down while the frustration and now legal fight intensifies as the nation's third largest school district begins a second week with empty classrooms.
"It's pretty unfortunate that two groups of adults can't get something straightened out for the benefit of the kids," said Michael Connelly, Parent of six children.
This morning calling the strike "illegal" by creating a quote "clear and present danger to the public health and safety."
Attorneys for the city asked for a court injunction to force the teachers to go back to work.
"Our goal is to do everything we can to possibly get the children back in school. The judge said he would hear us just as soon as he can under the court rules," said Larry Dinardo, Attorney Chicago.
A hearing has been set for Wednesday.
"I feel it's very underhanded. It's a threat and I don't think it's fair," said teacher Donyelle Beck.
The teachers Union says it needs time to fully read the latest contract offer and present it to members for a vote.
"We need to make sure that everything in writing is what's fair to everyone - all parties involved," said Beck.
According to reports, the current proposed deal would provide a raise for Chicago teachers whose average salary is over 70-thousand dollars, among the highest in the nation.
The sticking points instead continue to be job security and a teacher evaluations which Mayor Rahm Emanuel says need to be more heavily based on student performance.
As of right now it is still unclear when students will resume classes.