Get Ready for School Year 2024-25
It's never too early to get ready for next school year, whether you're just starting your journey at CPS or returning for another year. Explore the resources on this page to prepare for school.
Reminders for School Year 2024-25:
- Key Dates: The school year starts on Monday, August 26, 2024. It will be the first full day of classes for all students, and we look forward to seeing you. Some charter school start dates differ.
- School Menus: CPS serves free breakfast and lunch to every student all year long. View your school menu for more information.
- Getting to School: CPS students and accompanying adults can get a free ride on CTA buses and trains on the first day of school.
- School Hours: To check school hours, search for your school using the CPS School Locator.
Back-to-School To-Dos
Use the resources below to prepare for a successful start to the 2023-24 school year.
Complete Back-to-School Forms
View health requirements and access back-to-school forms for the 2023-24 school year.
Review Your Back-to-School Packet
Get ready for school with a collection of resources to prepare parents and students for the year ahead.
Get Ready for the First Day, and Beyond
Find information about transportation services, school supplies, school meals, academic resources and more.
Summer Safety Tips
- If you have questions about which vaccines are best for you or your child, CPS recommends that you talk to your doctor who knows your health history.
- The COVID-19 vaccine, including booster, is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Visit our vaccination webpage to learn more.
- Contact the Office of Student Health and Wellness at 773-553-KIDS(5437) if you need help with health insurance.
- Parents should know where their children are at all times.
- Do not swim in areas that do not have a lifeguard on duty.
- Prolonged exposure to the sun can be harmful. Children should dress appropriately and not be exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
- Students are encouraged to travel together in pairs whenever possible.
- If a student feels uncomfortable or threatened in any way, they should go to the nearest business or populated area and call for help.
- While having a phone can help in a crisis, students should use phones with good judgment and be aware of their surroundings.
- Students should report any suspicious vehicles, persons or behavior to the police or a trusted adult.
- Students and parents or guardians can report any concerns of sexual misconduct to CPS Office of Student Protections and Title IX at (773) 535-4400, osp@cps.edu or with our online complaint form.
- Please call the Cook County Crime Stoppers, 1-888-881-0606, for assistance in preventing violence in your home, on your street, in your school and in your community.
New to CPS? Start Your Journey Here.
All children from birth to age 21 who live in Chicago are eligible for enrollment in a Chicago Public School. Get started on the road to enrollment by exploring our schools and programs.
Get Support
GENERAL SUPPORT
Healthy CPS Hotline
Monday - Friday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
773-553-KIDS (5437)
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
CPS Parent Tech Support Hotline
Monday - Friday
7:30 am - 4:30 pm
773-417-1060