Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced yesterday that the Chicago Public Schools will extend the school day next year from five hours and 45 minutes to seven hours -- not seven hours and 30 minutes as Emanuel and the Chicago Public Schools originally proposed. Emanuel's announcement follows a coalition of parent groups who protested the mayor's office Tuesday and demanded evidence from the mayor and CPS that the seven hour and 30 minute day is optimal.

These parent groups may still not be satisfied, as many -- such as the Raise Your Hands coalition -- want a six hour and 30 minute day. The Chicago Teachers Union has also encouraged the six and a half hour day. CTU and CPS are currently in contract negotiations, with their collective bargaining agreement set to expire June 30.