Pension Education

Clear, accessible information to help members better understand pensions, retirement security, and the issues that shape pension advocacy.

Pension Education Matters

Pension systems can be complex, but members deserve clear information about the benefits they have earned, the systems that support them, and the policy decisions that may affect their retirement security.

PAG’s education resources are designed to make pension topics easier to understand, so members can stay informed, ask better questions, and participate more confidently in advocacy efforts.

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il constitution article XIII section 5
Advocacy & LEGISLATION

Know Your Pension Protections

Illinois public pension protections are an important part of understanding why pension advocacy matters. For CPS educators and CTPF members, this constitutional language is a key starting point.

In simple terms, pension membership creates a protected contractual relationship. Understanding this protection can help members stay informed, ask stronger questions, and advocate more effectively for the benefits they have earned.

Source: Illinois Constitution, Article XIII, Section 5

Explore Pension Education Topics

Explore clear, accessible resources designed to help members better understand pensions, retirement security, and the issues that shape pension advocacy.

01

Defined Benefit Pensions

Learn what defined benefit pensions are, how they work, and why they matter for long-term retirement security.

02

CTPF Basics

Find plain-language information about the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund and its role in supporting retired educators.

03

Pension Funding

Understand key terms and concepts related to pension funding, contributions, obligations, and long-term stability.

04

Legislation & Policy

Learn how pension-related legislation and public policy decisions can affect members and retirees.

03

Retirement Security

Explore why reliable retirement benefits matter for educators, families, and communities.

06

Common Questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions about pensions, advocacy, and PAG’s work.

featured educational resource

Understanding Pension Advocacy

A plain-language resource explaining what pension advocacy means, why it matters for CTPF members, and how education, transparency, and public participation help protect earned benefits.

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Understanding Pension Advocacy Educational Resource

Key Terms to Know

Pension issues often come with specialized language. These key terms offer a simple starting point for understanding the topics that shape retirement security and advocacy.

Latest from PAG

Recent updates, educational resources, event recaps, and media from Pension Advocacy Group.

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upcoming events
Senior Prom: Somewhere Over The Rainbow

Join PAG on June 27th at 6 pm for an evening of food, music, dancing, and community in support of pension advocacy. View Details & RSVP →

Springfield Rally 2026
pension advocacy
From Springfield: Day of Action

On May 27th, PAG joined educators, retirees, workers, and community advocates in Springfield for a Day of Action focused on public education, retirement security, and the importance of showing up.  Read Recap →

tina padilla, founder and director of Pension Advocacy Group
PAG NEWS
Building Momentum

Tina shares what PAG has been working on, what the organization is watching, and how members and supporters can stay involved. Read Tina’s Note →

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news & updates
Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser

A look back at the spring community event supporting PAG’s mission and the people who made it possible. Read More →

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videos & podcasts
PAG: 2025 Reflections and 2026 Goals

Faith and Tina reflect on PAG’s 2025 accomplishments and look ahead to 2026 with a renewed commitment to accountability, progress, and pension advocacy. Watch Video →

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