Chicago’s Back-to-School Events Draw Large Crowds Amid Rising Costs

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) held a series of back-to-school events this August, attracting large crowds amid rising educational costs. These events, designed to alleviate financial burdens for families, provided free school supplies, food, and resources for students as they prepare for the new academic year.

On a warm afternoon at Piotrowski Park, Christy Bolden navigated the bustling field with her four children. The retired nurse took advantage of the resources available at the CPS “Back-to-School Bash,” one of four such events across the city. Bolden noted the rising costs of essential school items, stating, “Things have just skyrocketed in price: the paper, the pencils, disinfecting wipes, everything they need.” Many families in Chicago are facing similar challenges, as the average price of educational materials in the U.S. increased by approximately 1.3% from January to July 2023, with a sharper rise of over 10% since July.

The financial strain on families is particularly pronounced in Chicago’s low-income communities, where over 75% of CPS students were classified as low income in 2024. This designation includes students receiving aid from programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or those identified as homeless or in foster care. The budgetary pressures on CPS have further complicated the situation, with the district facing a budget shortfall of $734 million that may result in reduced services, including school lunches and staffing.

Increased Attendance at Local Events

Attendance at local back-to-school events this year has surged compared to previous years. At a recent event in Grand Boulevard, hosted by the Chicago Urban League, nearly 1,000 attendees participated—more than double from the previous year. Calmetta Coleman, the nonprofit’s chief operating officer, reported running out of backpacks after distributing 500. “I was not expecting that,” she said, reflecting on the overwhelming turnout.

The financial struggles faced by families are evident, with recent surveys indicating that more than a third of parents cannot afford necessary school supplies. Additionally, over half plan to cut back on groceries to accommodate educational expenses. A report from the National Retail Federation highlighted that families are beginning their back-to-school shopping earlier, with the percentage of those starting in July rising from 55% to 67% from 2024 to 2025.

Community Support in Times of Need

Local organizations have stepped up to provide essential resources during this challenging period. CPS Chief of Family and Community Engagement, Fanny Diego Alvarez, noted that the series of back-to-school events attracted over 2,500 attendees, offering families not only supplies but critical information about available resources. Justine Bartido, a mother attending the Piotrowski Park event, remarked on the importance of these resources for her children, who were able to gather backpacks and science kits.

Concerns regarding CPS funding cuts have left many families anxious about the upcoming school year. Sofia Delgado, a CPS parent, expressed worries about maintaining support for her children, especially those with special needs. She stated, “Getting them what they need for school… is important to me.”

The community response has been robust, with various organizations, including Greater Mountain of Hope Ministries and Beegr8t Organization, hosting events that provide free school supplies and services. Pastor Eric Newson Sr. of Greater Mountain of Hope reported record attendance at their event, where they distributed over 200 backpacks and haircuts, demonstrating the significant needs within the community.

As families prepare for the new school year, the efforts of CPS and local organizations serve as a critical lifeline, easing the financial burdens and fostering a sense of community. These initiatives not only provide essential resources but also create a supportive environment as students and parents navigate the challenges of rising educational costs.