This report examines the extent of and reasons why teaching and nonteaching professionals in the Cook County suburban public schools have been released from their responsibilities for the 1976-77 school year. The report is based on a survey of every elementary and secondary school district in suburban Cook County requesting data on dismissal notices and nonrenewal of contracts of tenured and nontenured staff for the 1976-77 school year. Results of the survey indicate that reductions in staff are extensive in Cook County public schools due to declining enrollments, rising costs, and reduced school revenue. (Author)