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COVID-19 Resources

CPS is committed to providing students and staff with a safe in-person learning environment. On this page, you can find critical information on vaccinations, testing, safety guidance, and more.

Staying Safe This Winter

Updated January 17, 2024

It’s respiratory illness season, which means higher numbers of COVID-19 and flu cases and more hospitalizations related to respiratory illness. As the season for respiratory illnesses continues, students should schedule current COVID-19, flu, and other vaccinations. It’s also extra important to take safety precautions throughout the school year, including getting tested for COVID-19 if you feel sick or if someone in your household is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Get Tested for COVID-19 and Stay Home If You Feel Sick: When school is in session, rapid at-home COVID-19 tests are available at any school to any student or staff member at any time. Every U.S. household can also place an order to receive four more free, at-home COVID-19 rapid tests delivered directly to their home. Visit covid.gov/tests to order these free tests.

Get Your Updated COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines: Vaccines are available to students through CPS’ vaccine events and School-Based Health Centers. Because the District has received a limited supply of the vaccine, CPS is reserving these no-cost vaccines for students who are uninsured, under-insured or get insurance through Medicaid. Visit cps.edu/vaccines for more information and to make an appointment.

  • For staff, parents, and guardians who are uninsured, under-insured, or get coverage through Medicaid, we encourage getting a vaccine through a federally-qualified health center, a CDPH Immunization Clinic, or a vaccine event run by the City of Chicago. You can find a list of these local events happening all across the city at chicago.gov/COVIDvax.
  • For families and staff who are privately insured, we encourage reaching out to your health care providers or health insurance directly about these vaccines or find a vaccine through vaccines.gov.
Take Everyday Health Precautions: Everyday preventive actions can help protect you and your loved ones from developing a respiratory illness like COVID-19, the flu, and RSV:
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes using a tissue or your elbow
  • If your child is sick, keep them home except to get medical care. Even if your school-aged child appears to have mild symptoms, younger siblings can become very sick from the same virus.
  • Maximize indoor ventilation and air circulation by opening windows and hosting activities outdoors whenever possible
  • Wear a mask if you develop any symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough, or fever
  • Wear a mask when in crowded places and when around individuals who are medically vulnerable.

Vaccines

Students and families can make a vaccination appointment through CPS. Vaccines are safe and effective. No proof of citizenship or immigration status is required.

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Testing

Learn about COVID-19 testing options through CPS and in the community.

Learn More

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Report a Positive COVID-19 Case

Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 by a medical provider or using an at-home rapid test should use this form to report their diagnosis.

VIEW FORM

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CPS COVID-19 FAQ

Find answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19.

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CPS COVID-19 Safety Guidance

View key information about the District’s safety guidance and protocols to keep families, staff, and school communities safe from COVID-19.

VIEW GUIDANCE

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CPS COVID-19 Data

View data about how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the District and its community.

VIEW DATA

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COVID-19 Spending

View monthly lists of projected expenditures associated with the district's response to COVID-19.
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