Space to Grow

How the Program Works

As a core component of Pillar 2: Create – healthy and resilient learning environments, the Space to Grow program represents a cornerstone of our District's climate resiliency efforts.

This pioneering initiative transforms traditional, outdated schoolyards into dynamic, green community hubs that support sustainable water management while providing safe, engaging outdoor spaces for our students and neighborhoods.

Launched in 2013, Space to Grow is an award-winning, multi-agency partnership between CPS, the Chicago Department of Water Management, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, the Healthy Schools Campaign, and Openlands. The program strategically selects schools based on high flood risk (including FEMA high-risk areas), historic disinvestment, and the spatial capacity to support stormwater collection systems.

Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, each schoolyard is custom-designed through hands-on community planning meetings. These green schoolyards are completely re-engineered from the ground down.

At the surface level, they feature permeable play surfaces, track and field areas with permeable turf, outdoor classrooms, vegetable gardens, and deep- rooted native rain gardens. Beneath the surface, engineered layers of gravel and subterranean chamber systems act as giant sponges to capture initial rainfall and slowly release it, drastically reducing the pressure on city sewers.

To date, the program has successfully transformed 41 schoolyards across the District. These spaces not only retain millions of gallons of stormwater but also serve as vital community assets, providing students with daily access to nature, physical activity, and participatory learning environments.