CPS unanimously approved a revised policy to simplify enrollment for students in temporary living situations, requiring same-day enrollment at the school zoned for where they are staying, clarifying immediate enrollment is expected.

The policy also broadens and strengthens support for students experiencing homelessness, making enrollment and resources more accessible and proactive across the district.

Schools must provide private spaces for students to seek help, ensuring dignity and privacy when families disclose their circumstances.

School liaisons will coordinate resources for students experiencing homelessness and will receive stipends based on the number of enrolled students to align with the CTU contract.

The updates guarantee access to technology, fee waivers, transportation, and extracurricular activities for students in unstable housing.

Reforms include practical steps for students to identify who to contact at school for assistance and to maintain ongoing access to resources.

Self-enrollment and consent: students without a parent or guardian can enroll themselves and consent to transportation, removing the need for parental signatures.

Approximately 22,000 CPS students experienced homelessness in the 2024-2025 school year (about 6.8%), with peak shelter-based living exceeding 8,400 in 2024 and current estimates around 2,300.

The changes were informed by feedback from students and families and aim to ensure equitable standards of care and resources across ZIP codes.

The policy expands coverage by removing stigma and explicitly including students lacking fixed night-time residence, including those in motels, shelters, garages, or cars, and migratory children.

For schools with 75 or more students in temporary living situations, the district will fund dedicated advocates for case management and intensive support as part of the CTU agreement.

Together, these measures position CPS to better identify, enroll, and support students facing housing instability while ensuring consistent access to essential services.