CPS students start school despite heat wave

CHICAGO – To escape the extreme heat, Chicago Public Schools students spent their first day of school in air-conditioned classrooms.

Mayor Brandon Johnson and CPS Executive Director Pedro Martinez rang the school bell at Sharon Christa McAuliffe Elementary School and welcomed parents and children to the schoolyard, emphasizing the importance of attendance on the first day of school in setting the tone for the entire school year.

Parents expressed mixed feelings about sending their children to school for the first time. Michelle Neumann said it was difficult to leave her daughter alone for an entire day at preschool.

Jose Pacheco said it was a perfect day for his daughter to start first grade. And fourth-grader Jerome Linton said he was looking forward to meeting his teacher, who he predicted would be great.

Mayor Johnson and Martinez visited Chalmers STEAM Elementary School, one of three schools in North Lawndale that are implementing coordinated STEAM lessons and programs. Despite reports of tension between the mayor and CPS leadership, they appeared to be working together.

Martinez said there is greater alignment between CPS and City Hall. The district celebrated academic success and record graduation rates. He acknowledged the need for more resources and called for support at the local, state and federal levels.

Due to the extreme heat, parents were advised to dress their children in light clothing. At McAuliffe Elementary School, students are required to wear uniforms. The district has a building maintenance team and additional air conditioning units to address any equipment failures. Sports, recess and extracurricular activities have been moved indoors.