Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) have announced the extension of the Chicago Connected program through the 2025–2026 school year. This initiative will continue to provide free, high-speed internet access at home for more than 40,000 CPS students. The program’s continuation is supported by renewed funding from the city.

Chicago Connected was first launched in 2020 and has provided reliable internet service to over 200,000 CPS students during the past five years. Its goal is to reduce disparities in digital access and support student learning both inside and outside of school. Eligible families receive no-cost broadband or hotspot services to help students complete assignments and use essential online resources.

“No student in Chicago should fall behind because they can’t log on,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “This investment in Chicago Connected ensures that students have the tools they need to thrive. It’s about equity, opportunity, and making good on our promise to support every child in every neighborhood.”

As part of this new phase, up to 1,200 cellular smartphones will be distributed to CPS students enrolled in the Temporary Living Situations (STLS) program who are classified as “unaccompanied youth.” These students do not live with parents or guardians and are considered among the most vulnerable within STLS. The smartphones will give them access to internet connectivity, essential daily applications, and communication tools.

“Chicago Connected has become an essential support system for CPS students,” said CPS Interim Supt/CEO Dr. Macquline King. “We’re grateful to the City of Chicago for helping us keep this lifeline open for families as we begin the new school year.”

Chicago Connected remains one of the largest ongoing efforts nationwide aimed at closing the digital divide among K–12 students. The program originally operated through collaborations with local internet providers and community groups but now continues through a partnership between CPS and the City of Chicago. More information is available at cps.edu/chicagoconnected.