Chicago Public Schools Reminds Families of 2026-27 Back-to-School Dates (Chicago, IL) – Chicago Public Schools is reminding families to prepare for the start of the 2026-27 school year, with most students returning to classrooms Aug. 24 and preschool students beginning classes one day later.
Students in kindergarten through 12th grade will begin the school year Monday, Aug. 24, while preschool students will have their first day on Tuesday, Aug. 25.
CPS Superintendent and CEO Dr. Macquline King said the district is prepared to welcome students and staff back for another year of learning.
“After another amazing summer where many of our students, staff and school communities remained connected to each other and learning, it’s time to start the 2026-27 school year,” King said. “The District is ready to support every learner in accomplishing their goals throughout a school year that we hope will be joyful, productive and successful for both students and staff.”
CPS is encouraging families to complete preparations before the first day of school. Parents and guardians should review the district’s health requirements, complete all required health forms and check recommended school supply lists.
The district is also advising families to begin adjusting children’s sleep schedules to help them transition back to regular school-day routines.
CPS has established a separate start date for preschool students to give Chicago’s youngest learners a calmer introduction to the school year following the return of older students.
Families with children attending charter schools should contact their individual schools regarding start dates, as charter school calendars may differ from the CPS schedule.
Additional back-to-school resources, including health forms and other family support information, are available at cps.edu/b2s.
Chicago Public Schools Reminds Families of 2026-27 Back-to-School Dates
