Overview
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is committed to the integration of the following considerations into the planning and design of site and landscape improvements for new facilities and renovation projects at existing facilities.
Sustainability
Implementation of thoughtful, resilient design solutions that utilize existing or low-impact materials and green infrastructure to minimize environmental impacts to the greatest extent possible. Projects shall strive to enhance and create sustainable urban ecologies.
Longevity
Site projects shall be designed with the intent to last, including long-term, low-maintenance strategies, durable finishes, materials, and flexibility for future growth and adaptation.
Accessibility
Projects shall meet or exceed universal accessibility principles to the greatest extent possible to remove all barriers to teaching, learning and recreation.
Safety and Security
Projects shall include defensible exterior spaces which prioritize the health, safety and welfare of the CPS community while ensuring the security of the school facilities.
Community-Focused Sites
Projects shall welcome the community into the design process through thoughtful engagement opportunities, thereby creating inclusive and equitable site solutions for both CPS students and the local communities in which they serve.
Strategic Programming and Space Planning
Projects shall integrate prioritized programmatic elements based on the needs and requests of the school and local community. Spaces shall be adaptable and flexible in their uses to provide for optimal usage needs.
Education
To the greatest extent possible, projects shall strive and integrate opportunities for outdoor learning Examples include, but are not limited to, outdoor classrooms, garden opportunities, interpretive signs, etc.