District-run CPS schools are organized into 17 networks. The Office of Network Support provides administrative support, strategic direction, and leadership development to the schools within each network while also driving critical supports that help boost student learning. Networks are managed by Network Chiefs who oversee either a group of elementary schools or high schools. Network Chiefs provide guidance and support to schools for both educational and facility development and improvements.
Outside of networks which cover the majority of schools, there are three other groupings of schools:
- Independent School Principals - Independent School Principals (ISP) is designed for the highest-performing principals within the district. ISP provides support to principals who can ensure continued strong performance with minimal oversight from the district, and who would benefit from additional independence to lead their schools.
- Academy for Urban School Leadership - The Academy for Urban School Leadership (AUSL) is a non-profit school management organization that transforms under-performing schools in Chicago.
- Charter, Contract and Options Schools - CPS charter, contract, and options schools offer students and their families alternatives to traditional public schools.
Coordination of Capital projects should include network chiefs or the appropriate lead for ISP, AUSL or Charter, Contract and Options Schools. Charter, Contract and Option schools may operate differently from typical CPS schools including facility management and requirements for facility design and construction.