Chicago Public Schools will keep Friday, May 1, as a full instructional day in the 2025-26 academic calendar, following an agreement with the Chicago Teachers Union, according to an April 17 announcement. The district said the decision reflects its ongoing position that school days should proceed as scheduled while allowing for civic engagement opportunities.
The agreement matters because it ensures consistency for students and families regarding the school calendar and supports educational standards. It also addresses requests for participation in civic events on May 1 without disrupting regular instruction.
“This agreement preserves the classroom time students deserve and respects our staff and families who must be able to trust CPS to uphold the academic school year calendar,” said CEO/Superintendent Dr. Macquline King. “At the same time, the agreement honors the proud history of civic action in Chicago and beyond.”
Under a memorandum of understanding between CPS and CTU, all staff are expected to report to work on May 1 as usual. Any use of benefit days must follow each school’s established procedures. The district’s central office teams will support schools during this day.
Principals may allow students to participate in local civic engagement activities or field trips if they follow existing policies. Participation is voluntary; no student or staff member is required or excused from normal duties solely for these events. Students whose schools do not participate can still use one excused absence per year under Illinois law if they have parental permission for a qualifying civic event.
CPS leaders say that instruction on May 1 will continue using resources aligned with rigorous academic standards and social-emotional learning goals outlined in Success 2029: Together We Rise, their five-year strategic plan. A joint working group will develop additional classroom materials related to civic engagement for future years.
