CHICAGO — Deandre Welch understands how a teachers strike might cause him to miss a few high school football practices and even a scheduled game. But the senior wide receiver certainly didn't think the walkout would threaten his plans to pay for college.

"Football is basically my way to get into college," Welch said. "I'm applying to schools, and some are asking for film of my senior games. If the strike continues, I won't be able to send in that film."

The strike in the nation's third-largest school district could have unintended consequences for Chicago students whose college dreams are tied to their actions on the playing field.