On a Saturday afternoon, families gathered at a transformed West Side warehouse. Jacob Williams, a rising seventh grader, eagerly watched his hair fall to the floor. His excitement was evident the moment he spotted the barber chairs, his mother shared, especially since the haircut was complimentary. Haircuts were just one of the essential services available at this year’s Back-2-School Summer Jam.
Tasha Williams took advantage of the free dental cleaning and vaccines provided for her 12-year-old son. The cheerful atmosphere of the day bolstered her confidence in her son’s readiness for a new year at KIPP Academy.
Young Luna Leos, age six, entering first grade, enjoyed getting her face painted at an event hosted by the Chicago Teachers Union. It offered free backpacks, haircuts, books, and entertainment for children returning to school at the CTU Center on the Near West Side.
“You think you know what’s available, but events like this reveal more community programs,” Williams, 42, said.
Williams was among the many parents attending this year’s Summer Jam, organized by the Chicago Teachers Union before students returned to classrooms on August 24. Families received free supplies, addressing the rising costs of school preparation. Federal inflation data shows educational books and supplies now cost about 1.2% more than last summer, and prices have increased over 14% in the last decade.
Approximately 73% of CPS students were considered low-income last year, receiving benefits from programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. The need was evident, with over 800 families registered in advance and more expected to attend.
For parents like Williams, accessing multiple services in one location alleviates the stress of scheduling various appointments while managing a full-time job.
“It’s challenging to get doctor appointments before school starts,” Williams, from Garfield Park, mentioned. “Here, it’s a one-stop shop.”
Some children, like seventh-grader Raeshawn Willis, attended the event with his uncle, Chris Brown, as his parents couldn’t take time off work. This marked Brown’s third consecutive year bringing his nephew to the event. As Raeshawn painted flowers on a banner, Brown noted the boost in confidence his nephew feels each time.
“It’s meaningful that the Chicago Teachers Union hosts the celebration,” Brown, 52, shared. “I wish such opportunities existed when I was a kid.”
Originally planned outdoors, the event moved inside due to weather, but the change didn’t affect the spirits. Children enjoyed face painting, music from a DJ, and free tacos and ice cream sundaes from local vendors. They picked backpacks, filling them with crayons and glue sticks. Eighth-grade special education teacher John Conrad was particularly enthused about the book tables.
“These physical books give students access to texts beyond what they find online,” said Conrad, 61, who teaches at Madero Middle School. “It’s a reminder of the importance of learning.”
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