Discover resources to help you learn, grow and succeed
Technology can be a gateway to opportunities, such as learning new skills, finding new jobs, and connecting with loved ones. It can also be overwhelming and hard to keep up with. This page is designed to provide Chicago Connected families with resources to advance learning of digital skills and make the most of their no-cost internet service.
Attend a Free Workshop
Register for online trainings led by experts from organizations in your community.
Learn Skills On Your Own
Learn at your own pace with self-guided trainings focused on building basic skills.
Get Technical Support
Talk with someone who can help solve issues related to devices, connectivity and computer-related questions.
Getting Started With Computers
New to computers and the internet? Start here to learn the basics. Explore More Computer Courses
Learning Google & Microsoft Programs
Ready to learn more about software that helps you create documents, spreadsheets and presentations? Learn the ins and outs of Microsoft and Google products.
Landing a New Job
Curious about how to use the internet to create a resume, find new jobs and apply? Get started here.
| Learn Interview and Job Skills & Apply for Jobs [ ENGLISH & SPANISH ] |
| Build a Resume [ ENGLISH & SPANISH ] |
| Enroll in a Tuition-Free Career Bridge Program [ ENGLISH | SPANISH ] |
| Find a Job or Training Program in Illinois [ ENGLISH & SPANISH ] |
| How to find a job using Illinois workNet [ ENGLISH | SPANISH ] |
| Apply for a Paid Internship in Technology [ ENGLISH & SPANISH ] |
Other Digital Resources for Parents
Looking for tools to support your own personal, family and parenting goals? We’ve got you covered with these additional online resources.
Learn With Our Partners
Chicago Connected families are invited to get support with their learning experiences through our partner organizations.
Looking to learn basic computer skills at no cost? Get started by viewing our step-by-step guide on how to access online trainings, with the support of a Northstar partner in your community
Northstar helps you build skills in three main areas:
- Computer Skills: Internet basics, using email, Windows and Mac OS
- Software Skills: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint; and Google Docs
- Daily Life: Social media, job searching, supporting K-12 distance learning, online safety
Find a Northstar location:
- Sign up for learning by visiting digitalliteracyassessment.org or viewing our step-by-step guide for detailed instructions.
Test Your Skills
Not sure where to start? Click on an assessment below to test your digital skills, see what you already know, and determine what you want to learn.
Essential Software Skills
| Microsoft Word |
| Microsoft Excel |
| Microsoft Powerpoint |
| Google Docs |
Using Technology in Daily Life
| Information Literacy |
| Social Media |
| Supporting K-12 Distance Learning |
| Career Search Skills |
| Your Digital Footprint |
Check Your Eligibility for Chicago Connected
Chicago Connected provides no-cost, high-speed internet service to eligible CPS students and their families. This first-of-its-kind program seeks to eliminate a barrier to digital learning that disproportionately hurts the city’s low‐income families and students of color.
CPS Parent Tech Support Hotline
Monday - Friday
7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Parent Tech Support Help Center
773-417-1060
Get technical support for issues related to your CPS-issued device, assistance with other technology-related issues, and answers to general questions related to the Chicago Connected program.
YMCA of Chicago IT Help Desk
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
312-440-2416
Get help with device or connectivity issues, including answers to computer-related questions, assistance completing online tasks, and guidance on navigating Zoom, Google Classroom, and other online tools.