Chicago Public Schools history

In 1880 corporal punishment, the foundation of the old system of harsh discipline, was finally dropped as a board-sanctioned practice in the public schools.

The Chicago Reporter is a publication of the Community Renewal Society, a faith-based organization founded in 1882.

In 1897 the Chicago Teachers Federation (CTF) was formed to advocate a uniform pay scale, teacher pensions, and better working conditions in the public schools.

Art Deco was named for the 1925 Paris exposition which introduced the world to streamlined designs and buildings less influenced by historical motifs.

After a somewhat histrionic resignation offer, Willis ended his superintendency in 1966 amidst growing acrimony.

In September and October, teachers strike for a record 19 days, the 9th strike since 1969.

Suburban communities grew rapidly in the postwar period, and their school systems became widely acclaimed, especially in the years following 1970.

Investigating race and poverty since 1972

Richard J. Daley is elected mayor of Chicago and will hold the position until his death in 1976.

In 1995 yet another Chicago school reform bill was passed in Springfield, this time under the leadership of Mayor Richard M. Daley.

By 2000 more than three-quarters of Chicago's public school students were from low-income or poor families.

Paul Vallas, a former city budget director, served as the system's first CEO; in 2001 he was replaced by Arne Duncan.

CPS announces the closing of three chronically failing elementary schools – Terrell, Williams and Dodge – along with plans to re-open Williams and Dodge as revamped “Renaissance Schools” in fall 2003.

The investment would top $86 million by 2008.

Mayor Daley announces Renaissance 2010, his plan to close dozens of poorly performing schools and create 100 new ones, most of them charter and contract schools, by 2010.