On August 24, 2026, thousands of children returned to classes for the first day of school in Chicago Public Schools. Teachers and staff greeted students at Leland Elementary in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood with a festive red carpet. The event symbolized a warm welcome to the new academic year.
Ashli Reynolds prepared her son, Ashton, age 7, for his first day of second grade at Harold Washington Elementary in Chicago’s Burnside neighborhood. The excitement was palpable as families and educators marked this important day.
Mayor Brandon Johnson made an appearance at Leland Elementary, joining teachers and staff in welcoming the students. His presence underscored the community’s support for education.
Maria Del Rocio Rodriguez tended to her children’s needs before they headed to school. Her daughter Ximena received a hairstyle adjustment, while Omar, age 12, and Valeria, age 4, enjoyed breakfast. This preparation was part of the morning routine that families followed on the first day.
Rodriguez also guided her daughters, Valeria and Melissa, at Matthew Gallistel Language Academy as they discovered preschool’s official start would be on Tuesday, August 24, 2026. Paraprofessionals Lucia Serrano and Zayra Cabrera assisted at the mobile classroom doors, emphasizing the importance of support staff in educational settings.
Mayor Brandon Johnson engaged joyfully with students at Roswell B. Mason Elementary School in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood. His dance down the hallway highlighted the celebratory atmosphere, ensuring every student felt welcomed.
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