The end of summer brings that familiar mix of excitement and anxiety: back-to-school season in Chicago. Whether you're a first-time kindergarten parent or a seasoned CPS veteran, August preparation makes all the difference for a smooth school year start. Here's your complete guide to back to school in Lakeview.
New to Nettlehorst? Check out our Nettlehorst School page and detailed 2025-2026 calendar guide.
Key Dates for 2025-2026
Mark your calendar for these essential dates:
- First Day of School: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
- Labor Day (No School): Monday, September 1, 2025
- Back to School Night: Typically during the first two weeks (check your school's calendar)
School Supply Lists
Each Chicago elementary school provides grade-specific supply lists, typically available:
- On the school website by mid-August
- Through the school office
- From your child's teacher via email
Common Elementary Supplies
While lists vary by grade and teacher, most CPS elementary students need:
Classroom Basics
- Composition notebooks
- Pencils (plenty of them)
- Erasers
- Scissors (child-safe)
- Glue sticks
- Crayons and/or colored pencils
- Markers
- Folders (often specific colors for different subjects)
Personal Items
- Backpack (sized appropriately for your child)
- Water bottle
- Lunch box (if not buying lunch)
- Indoor shoes (some schools require these)
- Change of clothes (especially for younger grades)
Technology
- Headphones or earbuds (for use with school devices)
Pro Tips for Supply Shopping
- Shop early: Popular items sell out as August progresses
- Label everything: Use permanent marker or labels on all supplies
- Buy extras: Teachers often request supply replenishment mid-year
- Check local stores: Target, Walgreens, and neighborhood shops have good selections
CPS Registration and Paperwork
New Students
If you're new to Chicago Public Schools, complete registration through GoCPS. Requirements typically include:
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or deed)
- Birth certificate
- Immunization records
- Previous school records
Returning Students
Even returning families have annual paperwork:
- Emergency contact updates
- Medical form updates
- Transportation requests
- Photo/media release forms
- Acceptable use policy for technology
Most forms are completed online through the CPS parent portal. Complete these early to avoid first-week hassles.
💡 Tip: Once school starts, Schoolwise can help you track all those forms and deadlines automatically. Ask "When is the permission slip due?" — try the demo.
Transportation in Lakeview
CPS Bus Transportation
School bus service is available for students who qualify based on distance. Key points:
- Bus routes are typically published in late August
- Contact your school's transportation coordinator for questions
- First-week delays are common as routes are optimized
Walking and Biking
Lakeview's walkability means many families walk to school:
- Practice the route before the first day
- Identify safe crossing points
- Connect with other families for walking groups
- Many schools have bike racks
CTA Options
For older students, CTA is an option:
- Student Ventra cards available
- Practice routes before school starts
- Know backup options for delays
Before and After-School Care
Working parents need childcare solutions:
Before School
Some schools offer early drop-off programs. Check with your school about:
- Start time and cost
- Registration requirements
- Activities provided
After School
Options vary by school but may include:
- School-based extended day programs (typically until 6:00 PM)
- YMCA programs
- Park District programs
- Private childcare providers
Register early as programs fill up quickly, especially in popular Lakeview schools.
First Day Tips
The Night Before
- Lay out clothes and pack the backpack
- Prepare lunch and snacks
- Review the morning routine
- Set multiple alarms (for parents, too)
- Get to bed early
Morning Of
- Allow extra time for everything
- Eat a good breakfast
- Take the traditional first-day photo
- Stay calm and positive—kids pick up on parent anxiety
Drop-Off
- Follow school procedures
- Keep goodbyes brief and upbeat
- Trust that your child will be fine
- Have tissues ready for yourself
What to Expect the First Week
Communication from Teachers
Within the first week, expect:
- Welcome email or newsletter
- Classroom procedures and expectations
- Information about homework and communication preferences
- Sign-up links for conferences or volunteer opportunities
🎯 Pro tip: Forward your school emails to Schoolwise and ask questions anytime. "What did the teacher say about homework?" — see how it works.
Adjustment Period
It's normal for children to:
- Be exhausted after school
- Need time to decompress before talking
- Have some anxiety about new routines
- Take a week or two to settle in
Important Contacts
Keep these handy:
CPS District Level
- CPS Main Office: (773) 553-1000
- GoCPS Help: gocps.cps.edu
- Transportation: (773) 553-2860
School Level
Each school has:
- Main office phone number
- Principal and assistant principal contact
- LSC (Local School Council) information
Add these to your phone before school starts.
Staying Informed All Year
The back-to-school flurry of emails is just the beginning. Throughout the year, you'll receive:
- Weekly classroom newsletters
- School-wide announcements
- PTA/LSC updates
- CPS district communications
Managing the Information Flow
With so much communication coming your way, many parents struggle to keep track of what's important. Questions like "When is picture day?" or "What should I pack for the field trip?" require searching through dozens of emails.
This is exactly why we built Schoolwise. Instead of digging through your inbox every time you have a question, you can simply ask and get an instant answer. Schoolwise reads all your school communications so you don't have to.
Making This Year Great
Welcome back to school, Lakeview families! With good preparation and the right tools, your family can make the most of the 2025-2026 school year.
Related Reading for Chicago Parents
- Nettlehorst School Calendar 2025-2026
- Chicago Public Schools Holiday Calendar 2025
- Lakeview Chicago Elementary Schools Guide
- How to Keep Track of School Events
Make this school year easier from day one. Download Schoolwise for iPhone or Android and get instant answers about everything happening at your child's school. Or try the web demo first.
Not in Chicago? Request your school and we'll work on adding it to Schoolwise.