At its early October board meeting, the Chicago Public Schools district board announced new playgrounds in Albany Park and Washington Heights and opened the GoCPS application window for the 2026–27 school year.
New playgrounds and fields open for students
Chicago Public Schools recently celebrated the opening of two new facilities designed to give students more safe places to learn and play. At Bateman Elementary in Albany Park, near Irving Park Road and Sacramento Avenue, children now have access to a brand-new playground and turf soccer field. The school community marked the opening with a ribbon-cutting event on Friday, Oct. 3, according to Chicago Public Schools.
The new playground is designed for younger children and includes equipment accessible for students with mobility needs. The turf field will primarily serve older elementary and middle school athletes.
On the South Side, Julian High School in Washington Heights, near 103rd Street and Vincennes Avenue, unveiled a new turf football field during a homecoming pep rally. The event also recognized the school’s 50th anniversary, giving students and families a chance to celebrate both the milestone and the new space. District leaders said these projects reflect a joint effort between Chicago Public Schools, school communities and local elected officials, according to Chicago Public Schools.
GoCPS application window now open
Families looking ahead to the 2026–27 school year can now submit applications through the GoCPS portal. The window opened this week and will remain open until 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, according to Chicago Public Schools.
The application process allows families to explore and apply to schools across the district, including magnet, selective enrollment and specialty programs. Chicago Public Schools is encouraging parents to review deadlines carefully and reach out to school counselors with any questions about navigating the process.
Alongside applications, the district is also asking families to submit positive stories through its “Good News Form.” Officials say these stories highlight student achievements and school successes that might not otherwise reach the broader community.
Plan It: GoCPS 2026–27 applications
- What: GoCPS applications for 2026–27 school year
- Deadline: 5 p.m. Nov. 14, 2025
- Where: GoCPS online portal
- Who: All Chicago Public Schools families with students entering new schools or programs
- Tips: Contact your school counselor for guidance on selecting and ranking schools
Students take part in Peace Day
On Sept. 26, more than 1,500 students from 31 Chicago Public Schools took part in Peace Day activities aimed at promoting safer and stronger communities. Students organized local “Peace Walks” and events that brought together classmates, teachers and families.
Chicago Public Schools leaders commended students for leading the effort and showing that young people can be a driving force in building community trust and safety. Families who want to learn more about how their schools marked Peace Day can find coverage in the district’s weekly community update, according to Chicago Public Schools.
