Back-to-school events help CPS students prepare for upcoming school year

CHICAGO — Students at Chicago Public Schools (CPS) are preparing to head back to class, and several events were held to help kids get ready.

In Morgan Park, Graduates Over Guns, Chicago Excel Academy, and Mount Calvary Baptist Church teamed up for a back-to-school bash. The event was one of several across the city providing families with much-needed support for the upcoming school year.

The organizations distributed 200 backpacks filled with supplies, offered free food, and provided several resources to attendees.

“I appreciate what they did, they gave me three backpacks for my three grandbabies, and I appreciate that,” said Morgan Park resident Vernicia Kenluy.

Last Friday, the area had been a crime scene following a deadly shooting, but organizers say they are determined to change the narrative.

“We are not afraid to be out here,” said Tyree Booker, Executive Director of the Chicago Excel Academy. “We are not afraid to engage and we’re not afraid to participate. We’re taking back our streets one street at a time.”

In West Town, the Back-to-School Summer Jam, hosted by the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and Chicago Public Schools, offered students food, school supplies, teeth cleanings, and haircuts. These services provided invaluable support to families preparing for the school year.

“It shows that there is an organization that cares about the kids that are attending public schools, and that messaging is very present here today,” said Aimee Potter, an attendee of the CTU event.

The Back-to-School Summer Jam ran until 7 p.m. at the CTU Center near West Carroll Avenue and North Walcott Avenue, offering much-needed resources to attendees.

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