District initiatives

CPS is constantly striving for ways to improve schools and develop innovative programs that will benefit students, employees and the community.

Whether it’s opening new schools, improving attendance or transforming high schools, our district initiatives aim to improve each student and parent experience throughout his or her time at CPS.

Below is a list of the programs that do just that.

Academic Olympics

Citywide competitions that test students' ability and knowledge in speech, math, essay and academic bowls.

Attendance and Truancy

It's important for students to be in school each and every day.

Chicago TAP

Learn more about the program designed to further teacher and student development.

Close Up Washington

Students experience government and the political process first hand in the nation's capital.

Community Schools Initiative

Offers students and parents a variety of opportunities to learn beyond the classroom.

Fresh Start

Program increases school autonomy and group decision-making through developmental instructional leadership teams.

Having a Ball

5th grade students learn the international style of ballroom dance.

High School Transformation

Multi-year effort to comprehensively improve student achievement in CPS high schools.

Full School Day

The Full School Day is built on a simple fact – Chicago Public School students spend 15% less time in the classroom than the average American public school student.

Majority to Minority Transfer Program

Schools have a stable racial/ethnic balance.

NCLB

Learn more about the no child left behind program.

New Teachers Summer Academy

New teachers attend a two-day summer seminar to learn more about the Chicago Public Schools.

Renaissance 2010

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is committed to ensuring all students in Chicago have access to high-quality school options that prepare them for post-secondary success.

Small Learning Communities

Small Learning Communities strive to build a strong relationship between the student and teacher.