CPS Offers 250 'Contingency Sites' for Students on April 1

Families who don’t have the option of keeping their children at home or attending a non-CPS facility on April 1, can choose from one of 250 contingency sites across the city that will ensure students are safe, fed and engaged throughout the day.

The Chicago Teachers Union is planning a one-day strike in the midst of heated contract talks this Friday, leaving many families scrambling for child care. Although some teachers have committed to being in their classrooms that day (under the alleged threat of being drummed out of the teachers union), Chicago Public Schools officials said that they cannot operate as they would a regular school day.

Parents can start by entering their address into the School Site Locator Tool. The Locator Tool will provide an elementary or high school site, Chicago Park District facility or a Chicago Public Library in your area where parents can bring their children.

For CPS school sites, parents are asked to pre-register their student(s). Families can also call the city’s non-emergency 3-1-1 to find contingency sites in their area.

CPS schools and Chicago Park District sites will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Chicago Public Library sites will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Students will be provided with breakfast and lunch at the contingency sites.

The contingency sites will be supported by trained staff from CPS and its partners. The Chicago Police Department will also be working with CPS to ensure children’s safety.

Although no regular classroom instruction will take place, students will be able to engage in online learning, arts and crafts, physical education and independent reading and writing.

Also, all athletic practices and games are postponed on Friday per IHSA regulations.

CPS bus service will not be offered on Friday, but the Chicago Transit Authority will be providing free transportation for all CPS students.

For more information about the contingency sites and other strike information, visit the CPS website.

Source: Chicago Public Schools