Illinois Teachers Union Increases President's Salary
The state federation approved a raise for Stacy Davis Gates, bringing her combined annual income to $445,000.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Unions
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The Illinois Federation of Teachers Executive Board has approved a salary increase for president Stacy Davis Gates, raising her pay from $180,000 to $250,000. This change brings her total annual earnings from her roles at both the state federation and the Chicago Teachers Union to $445,000.
Why it matters
The board's decision adjusts compensation for the leadership role overseeing a federation that represents more than 100,000 employees. The raise follows Gates' appointment to the state-level presidency last year.
The Illinois Federation of Teachers Executive Board approved the salary increase for Stacy Davis Gates this month, raising her base pay with the organization by $70,000. She continues to earn $195,000 annually as president of the Chicago Teachers Union.
The players
Stacy Davis Gates
She serves as the president of both the Illinois Federation of Teachers and the Chicago Teachers Union.
Illinois Federation of Teachers
This labor organization represents more than 100,000 employees throughout the state of Illinois.
Dan Montgomery
He is the former president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers who earned approximately $280,000 annually upon his retirement.
The details
The IFT Executive Board voted to authorize the raise for the president, a position Gates has held since October 2025. Her compensation now totals $445,000 when accounting for her concurrent leadership role with the local teachers union in Chicago.
Timeline
October 2025: Stacy Davis Gates began serving as president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers.
2025: Stacy Davis Gates earned $195,000 in her capacity as president of the Chicago Teachers Union.
October 2026: The IFT Executive Board voted to approve the salary increase for the president.
Political Context
Labor groups often face scrutiny regarding executive compensation structures established under their internal governance bylaws. This salary hike may invite pushback from members concerned about fiscal priorities and the alignment of leadership pay with the interests of the 100,000 employees represented.
The salary adjustment serves as an internal organizational change that does not directly alter current dues or service delivery for members. However, the total compensation package for union leadership remains a point of interest for rank-and-file employees involved in budget oversight.
The takeaway
Transparency regarding executive pay structures remains a priority for members of large labor federations. Educators and union members should review public filings to stay informed about how organization funds are allocated toward leadership compensation.
Further reading
For more information on labor organizations in the state, visit the Illinois Unions section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NBC Chicago.
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