Your Voice Matters:
Your Voice Matters:
A Community Member’s Guide to Getting Involved in Chicago Public Schools
A Community Member’s Guide to Getting Involved in Chicago Public Schools
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Join the Far South CAC. Click here!
Why It Matters
Why It Matters
Every decision — from what programs are offered to how school funds are spent — is influenced by someone at the table.
As a community member, you have power and opportunity to make sure those decisions reflect your neighborhood’s needs.
Top 5 Ways to Use Your Voice
Top 5 Ways to Use Your Voice
Attend a meeting — LSC, CAC, or School Board.
Join a committee — most councils welcome volunteers.
Support students — mentor, host workshops, or attend performances.
Stay informed — follow CPS updates and CAC newsletters.
Vote and encourage others to run — for LSC or School Board seats.
Four Main Ways to Get Involved
Four Main Ways to Get Involved
Start here. Each group has a unique role—and all need active community voices.
Chicago Board of Education
Oversees all CPS policies, budgets, and the district CEO.
Anyone can attend meetings, give public comment, or contact board members.
Visit www.cpsboe.org to view meeting schedules and sign up for public comment.
Local School Councils (LSCs)
School-level decision-making (budget, CIWP, principal evaluation).
Parents, community members, teachers, staff, and (for high schools) students.
Run for an LSC seat (elections every 2 years) or attend monthly meetings at your neighborhood school.
Community Action Councils (CACs)
Regional collaboration among parents, schools, CBOs, and faith partners.
Anyone who cares about schools in the region (parents, CBOs, churches, residents).
Join your local CAC! There are now 9 to Choose from!
Parent Advisory Councils (PACs)
Parent leadership & Title I family engagement
Parents of students in Title I schools.
Contact your school’s PAC chair or principal to attend monthly meetings.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Other Ways to Get Involved
Bilingual Advisory Committees (BAC/CBPAC)
Bilingual Advisory Committees (BAC/CBPAC)
Champion English Learners and culturally responsive education.
Learn more → https://www.cps.edu/services-and-supports/parent-engagement/bilingual-advisory-committees/
Citywide Parent Advisory Council (CPAC)
Citywide Parent Advisory Council (CPAC)
Citywide voice for parent engagement.
Learn more → https://www.cps.edu/services-and-supports/parent-engagement/
Student Voice Committee (SVC)
Student Voice Committee (SVC)
Elevate student leadership and district feedback.
Learn more → https://sve.cps.edu/
Volunteer at a School
Volunteer at a School
Tutor, mentor, or help with events at your neighborhood school.
Learn more → https://www.cps.edu/services-and-supports/parent-engagement/volunteer-programs/
OSD Family Advisory Board
OSD Family Advisory Board
Support students with disabilities and diverse learning needs.
Equity & Safety Advisory
Equity & Safety Advisory
Work on fairness, safety, and access across CPS.
Learn more → https://www.cps.edu/about/equity/
Arts Student Voice Committee
Arts Student Voice Committee
Student led committee to discuss, create and execute strategies to improve Art Education
Learn more → https://www.cps.edu/sites/cpsarts/student-programs/arts-student-voice-committee/
Student Advisory Council
Student Advisory Council
Student led council that addresses issues affecting CPS Students
Learn more → https://www.cps.edu/about/leadership/student-advisory-council/
Local School Council Advisory Board (LSCAB)
Local School Council Advisory Board (LSCAB)
Advise Board on issues related to Local School Council Elections, operations and more.
Learn more → https://www.cps.edu/about/local-school-councils/local-school-council-advisory-board/
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