Stories by Medill School of Journalism

Students in a hallway. (WTTW News)

More Chicago Families Turning to Private, Charter Schools as CPS Enrollment Declines

Chicago Public Schools has been working to combat declining enrollment and funding challenges — but a significant number of low-income families of color are leaving the district. Between 2019 and 2022, CPS lost nearly 37,000 students.

(WTTW News)

Chicago Organizations Look to Expand Mental Health Services, Diversify Available Therapists

Organizations across the city are working to provide more mental health services to Black and Latino Chicagoans. Part of that effort involves growing a more diverse pool of therapists.

Nikko Jhmarii Robinson, 22, spent most of his life in foster care. He is now working with a mentor and support system. (Medill))

In Cook County, Black Youth Make Up 70% of the Foster Care System. Advocates Say More Support is Needed After They Age Out.

In Cook County, Black youth account for more than 70% of the child welfare system. Meanwhile, Black residents make up only 23% of the county’s total population. As of February 2022, there are more than 4,000 Black children in foster care in Cook County.