Community celebration brings food, entertainment, vaccinations and dozens of resource partners to CTU Center ahead of the first day of school
Today, before CPS students return to the classroom, the Chicago Teachers Union is hosting its annual Back-2-School Summer Jam to help students and parents start the new school year successfully. The event will bring together students, parents, educators, school board candidates and community members from across Chicago.
The community celebration brings food, entertainment, vaccinations and dozens of resource partners to CTU Center ahead of the first day of school. Educators return to their classrooms Monday, Aug 17, and students return Monday, Aug. 24
WHAT: The Chicago Teachers Union, hosted by the CTU Foundation, will hold its Back-2-School Summer Jam, a free community celebration for Chicago students and families ahead of the new school year. The event features a free backpack giveaway, free haircuts, medical care and vaccinations, a free book giveaway, a flight simulator, live performances, raffles and prizes and a resource fair connecting families to dozens of community organizations and elected officials.
WHEN: Today, Sat. Aug. 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
WHO: Chicago Teachers Union, CTU Foundation, students, parents, teachers, community organizations, and elected officials.
WHERE: CTU Center, 1901 W. Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
- Face painting, bubbles, games and music.
- Free haircuts.
- Book and backpack giveaway.
- Resource fair.
- Free medical care and vaccinations.
- Flight simulator.
- Food trucks, art and banner-making.
VISUALS: Backpack giveaway, resource fair booths, live performances, free haircuts, medical and vaccination services, food trucks, and family activities throughout the CTU Center and surrounding lots.
The event also will include the CTU Foundation’s Environmental Justice (EJ) Freedom School Community Fair to celebrate, reflect on, and envision a more sustainable future for our schools. The fair will highlight the work of EJ Freedom School students, teachers, and community partners, showcasing ideas and visions for climate action in their schools and communities.
Community partners for the event include: Black Fire Brigade, Brandon Johnson for Chicago, Chicago Defender Charities, Chicago Fire, Her League, Hop 22 Barbershop, The Institute for Clinical Social Work, Minuteman Press Chicago, Neighborhood Heroes, Praize Productions, Rainbow PUSH Coalition, American Federation of Teachers Reading Opens the World, St. Anthony Hospital, and United Schools Associates.
Donations and sponsorships benefit the Children and Teachers Foundation of the CTU, which provides professional learning opportunities to educators and financial assistance and scholarships to students. Learn more at ctuf.org.
