On August 24, 2026, Chicago Public Schools marked the beginning of the academic year as thousands of children returned to classrooms across the city. Various schools, including Leland Elementary in the Austin neighborhood, celebrated the occasion with special events. Teachers and staff rolled out a red carpet to warmly greet the students, creating a festive atmosphere.

Mayor Brandon Johnson joined in the welcoming activities, participating in celebrations at Leland Elementary and Roswell B. Mason Elementary School in the North Lawndale neighborhood. His presence underscored the community’s unified effort to support education and the excitement surrounding the new school year.

Parents were also actively involved as they prepared their children for the start of classes. Ashli Reynolds was seen assisting her son, Ashton, with his backpack as he headed to his first day of second grade at Harold Washington Elementary in the Burnside neighborhood. The morning preparations highlighted the anticipation and care involved in ensuring children were ready for their educational journey.

Meanwhile, Maria Del Rocio Rodriguez managed the morning routine for her family. Her three children, including Omar, 12, and Valeria, 4, had breakfast before starting school. Rodriguez fixed her daughter Ximena’s hair, showcasing the familial preparation for the day.

At Matthew Gallistel Language Academy, Rodriguez guided her daughters Valeria and Melissa out of their mobile classroom. Educators like paraprofessionals Lucia Serrano and Zayra Cabrera stood by the school’s entrance, assisting and directing students as they adapted to the schedule, with preschool classes set to begin officially the following Tuesday.

The start of the school year in Chicago was an event marked by community support, parental involvement, and a shared focus on educational beginnings.