Dear CPS Colleagues, Families, and Supporters,
This week, we celebrated the newest cohort of CPS teachers to achieve National Board Certification, which is widely regarded as the most prestigious credential a teacher can earn. Sixty-three of our educators reached this milestone in 2026, with another 67 renewing their certification this year.
Celebrating Our NBCTs
As a member of the 2004 cohort of CPS NBCTs, I know how much effort it takes to reach this point. The process requires not only deep reflection, but an intense commitment to proving that your teaching meets the highest standards in the profession.
I want to thank everyone who has supported our teachers along this journey, including our partners at the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), whose Nurturing Teacher Leadership program has helped thousands of CPS educators earn this prestigious credential.
I could not be more proud of our NBCTs, as they do far more than teach. They masterfully tailor instruction to meet the diverse needs of every child in every CPS school, and are further proof that at CPS, we never settle for “good enough,” but instead strive for excellence.
And speaking of striving for excellence, the upcoming Artemis II mission marks a powerful moment in space exploration and in representation. Among the four astronauts selected for this historic journey is Victor J. Glover, a member of the historical Black fraternity Phi Beta Sigma who will become the first Black astronaut to travel to the Moon.
Artemis II, led by NASA, will send a crew of four astronauts on a mission around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft, paving the way for future lunar landings. Alongside Glover are Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Christina Koch, and Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency—a diverse, international team representing the future of exploration.
Victor Glover’s journey to this moment is one of excellence, perseverance, and purpose. A U.S. Navy captain, test pilot, and engineer, he previously flew on SpaceX Crew-1 mission, where he spent months aboard the International Space Station conducting scientific research. Now, he is preparing to help lead humanity back to the Moon.
His presence on Artemis II is more than historic, it is inspiring. For students across the country, especially those who may not have always seen themselves reflected in space exploration, Glover’s achievement sends a clear message: there are no limits to what you can accomplish.
Spotlighting CPS Artists and Athletes
I also want to recognize two groups of CPS students—one for their athletic accomplishments, and the other for their artistry.
Earlier today, a celebration was held for the Marshall High School boys’ basketball team, who recently captured the Class 1A state championship in dramatic fashion. Down ten points with seven minutes to play, the Marshall Commandos came roaring back to beat Goreville High School by a final score of 52 to 44. This was the school’s first state basketball championship since 2008, and their fourth overall.
Shifting from the court to the stage, a group of students from Ray Graham Training Center who recently starred in a school production of “The Wiz” were given an exciting opportunity this week. These performers were able to hone their dance skills alongside professionals who are part of the touring company of “The Wiz” currently performing in Chicago. After completing their dance class, the students from Ray Graham were also invited to watch the professional production.
I thank the CPS Arts Team, our Office for Students with Disabilities, and our partners at Broadway in Chicago for working together to make this opportunity possible for our Ray Graham students! I have no doubt that it is an experience they will carry with them always!
Leading CPS Into Our Next Chapter
I want to close with how honored I am to have been named the permanent Superintendent/CEO for Chicago Public Schools. As a former CPS student, parent, teacher, and principal, my heart has been with this District for as long as I can remember, and I feel truly humbled by this opportunity to serve.
Whatever their backgrounds, interests, and abilities, our students deserve a leader who will put their needs first, and who will advocate for their success at every turn. From distributing resources equitably, to strengthening community engagement, to continuing to fight for better education funding, I pledge to be that leader for Chicago’s children each and every day.
I am grateful for the trust that has been placed in me by the Chicago Board of Education, and I look forward to working with all of you, our families, educators, and labor and community partners, to continue improving the daily learning experience for all students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Macquline King
Interim Superintendent/CEO
Chicago Public Schools
Share Your Good News!
We love highlighting the great things that are happening in our schools, along with the people who are making them happen! Please use the Good News Form to tell us your stories so that we can share them with the District!
Share your story with us today so that we can feature it through this newsletter, on CPS social media, and even in the news!
A Look Around the District
Take a look at what schools across our district have been up to!
Brunson Elementary in Chicago’s South Austin neighborhood recently partnered with the Big Ten Conference to provide students with unique athletic opportunities. Students have served as reporters for Basketball and Volleyball media days, and the school’s basketball team recently participated in a Halftime Scrimmage Game during the Big Ten Tournament at the United Center.
Meanwhile, at Chicago Vocational High School in Avalon Park, the dance team recently took part in their school’s Black History Program. Students performed with enthusiasm and pride, representing both their culture and school community with excellence.
Telpochcalli Elementary in Little Village collaborated with the Chicago Blackhawks to provide families with a memorable spring break experience on the ice. Students and their families were invited to skate together at the Fifth Third Arena, creating a joyful opportunity for connection, wellness, and community building beyond the classroom.
The Student Voice Club at Pickard Elementary hosted “Lucky to be Pickard Family,” a St. Patrick’s Day-themed family dance night filled with fun activities. Families enjoyed refreshments, raffles, and St. Patrick’s Day-themed treats.
And at Carroll-Rosenwald Elementary in Wrightwood, the school held its second annual Career Day, with students dressing as the professionals they aspire to be and exploring various career options. Parents and community members were invited to share their careers as well, including social workers, event planners, chefs, and park district employees!
CPS Spring Surveys Now Open
CPS’ spring surveys are open now through 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, April 30.
For parents and guardians, the spring survey covers two important topics:
- School culture and climate
- Capital planning
The staff survey is focused on the District’s capital plan.
Parents can fill out both surveys here, and employees can complete their survey here.
More information is also available at cps.edu/surveys.
Please note: A series of community meetings will be held throughout April to discuss the District’s capital plan. These meetings will be held virtually and in person, and will be available in both English and Spanish. Visit cps.edu/capitalplan for complete details.
Applications Now Open for New Honorary Student Board Member
The Chicago Board of Education is looking for a student leader to serve as its Honorary Student Board Member (HSBM) for the 2026–27 school year. Selected annually, the HSBM represents the interests and perspectives of all CPS students by attending the Board’s monthly meetings, which are generally held on the fourth Thursday of each month at the CPS Loop Office (42 W. Madison St. in Chicago). The HSBM is also an active participant in the Student Voice Roundtable initiative, which provides a platform for students from across the District to engage with CPS leadership and Board members on topics that are important to Chicago’s youth. The HSBM will also be awarded a $1,000 scholarship to support enrollment at a two- or four-year college or university.
To be eligible for this opportunity, you must be a rising Junior or Senior (current 10th- or 11th-grader), hold a 3.0 G.P.A. or higher, and demonstrate proven leadership experience.
The application period is open now through Friday, April 24, 2026 at 5 p.m. Apply at cps.edu/HSBMapplication.
Donation to Help Kindergarten Students Learn to Ride Bikes
Thank you to All Kids Bike for the donation of $9,000 worth of cycling equipment to the students of Sawyer Elementary! This equipment includes 24 bicycles that will be used to help Kindergarten students learn to ride during Physical Education classes.
Google Sponsors AI Team-Based Challenge
Thanks to a partnership between CPS and Google, students from five CPS high schools had the opportunity to participate in an AI team-based challenge. The goal was for students to learn the essential AI technical and employability skills for success in computer science and information technology fields.
Introducing Chicago Youth Works
“Chicago Youth Works,” formerly “One Summer Chicago”, is an effort to provide Chicago’s students and young adults with employment in and beyond the summer. Applications are now open for youth ages 14 to 24 to fill an anticipated 29,000 jobs and internships. CPS students can explore options and apply here.
Deadline Approaching for Early College Opportunity in the Arts
The RE:ALIZE program offers students a chance to explore dance, music, theatre, or visual arts while also earning FREE college credit from Columbia College Chicago during their junior and senior years of high school! RE:ALIZE is accepting applications now for the 2026–2027 school year from current sophomores and juniors. The deadline to apply is April 18, 2026. Contact realize@cps.edu with questions.
Class of 2026: Apply for $10,000 in Scholarships in Math and Science Today!
Applications are now open for the 2026 CGCS-Peters Pharis Foundation Math and Science Scholarships. $10,000 scholarships will be awarded to four 2026 high school seniors in school districts represented by the Council of the Great City Schools, which includes CPS! Please read the scholarship guidelines and criteria before applying. Apply online here by the deadline of April 13, 2026. If you have any questions, email Tonya Harris at: tharris@cgcs.org.
Summer Internship Applications Now Open
CPS high school students are encouraged to unlock their potential with real-world experience through an internship this summer! This opportunity is open to all students ages 16 and older, including soon-to-be graduates from the Class of 2026.
Summer interns typically work 20 to 25 hours per week with a local corporation, business, or nonprofit organization. These paid internships provide students with mentorship, skill development, and networking opportunities.
More information is available at cps.edu/summerinternships, or by contacting summerinternships@cps.edu.
CPS Scoreboard: This Week in District Athletics
Late last month, the Chicago Public League crowned its Indoor Track and Field Champions! Congratulations to the Kenwood Boys Team and the Lane Tech Girls Team on their titles!
CPS is proud to highlight schools across the District in exciting baseball events. Our first one concluded this week, as the league hosted the second-annual Military Appreciation Game on Friday, March 28, between Carver Military and Phoenix Military at Granderson Stadium. Our next event will honor Jackie Robinson Day on April 15, once again at Granderson Stadium.
Congratulations to South Shore’s Jordan H., who made history by winning the 60-meter hurdles National Championship in Track and Field and breaking the Illinois state record with an 8.18! Congratulations to Jordan and the entire South Shore community on this historic achievement.
CPS SCORE!
ICYMI: CPS SCORE! crowned their Wrestling champions this past weekend. The photo gallery and championship recaps are now LIVE on our website and social media.
Schools are now signing up for the spring season of CPS SCORE, featuring girls’ soccer, track and field, and boys’ and girls’ flag football. Make sure to check with your school to see what programs your school has signed up for, then register your student at cpsathletics.com.
See What’s New in the Parks
Participate in Earth Day
Help make a difference this Earth Day by pitching in at a cleanup event taking place at more than 140 parks across the city on Saturday, April 18th. Registration and park location information can be found here.
Celebrate Spring at the Conservatories
The annual spring flower shows have returned to the Garfield & Lincoln Park Conservatories. Enjoy the sights and scents of both shows now through May 10. Learn more & register here.
Register for Spring Programs
Register for spring programs in-person and online. Programs run now through June 7. Visit ChicagoParkDistrict.com for more information.
Be a 2026 Summer Lifeguard – Apply TODAY
Get your summer job plans in motion now. Earn $20.50 an hour this summer as a Chicago Park District lifeguard. Apply today, and then register to take the Lifeguard Test. Must be a Chicago resident and at least 16 years old by July 1, 2026. Learn more and apply at chicagoparkdistrict.com/lifeguards/CPS.
For all questions, please email play@chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Special Ticket Offers from the Chicago Bulls and Lyric Opera of Chicago
CPS staff are invited to cheer on the Chicago Bulls with an exclusive ticket offer for the Bulls vs. Magic game on April 10th. Buy tickets here.
Lyric Opera of Chicago welcomes Chicago Public School employees to enjoy 20% off performances of Mary Poppins in Concert Live to Film at Lyric Opera of Chicago with the promo code CPSSTAFF. Click here to purchase tickets for the chance to see this beloved Disney classic with the score performed live by the Lyric Opera Orchestra.
Important Dates
For more upcoming events around the District, visit cps.edu/calendar.
- Friday, April 3: A professional development day for staff; no classes for students.
- Wednesday, April 8: Board Agenda Review Committee meeting. Learn more at cpsboe.org.
- Tuesday, April 14: FY27 Capital Plan community meeting at 3 p.m. in English and Spanish. Register here.
- Thursday, April 16: FY27 Capital Plan community meeting at 5:30 p.m. in English and Spanish. Register here.
- Tuesday, April 21: FY27 Capital Plan community meeting at 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. in English and Spanish. Register here.
- Thursday, April 23: Board of Education meeting. Learn more at cpsboe.org.
- Tuesday, April 28: FY27 Capital Plan community meeting at 5:30 p.m. in Spanish only. Register here.