The CPS Department of Arts Education runs a number of district wide arts programs that are open to all CPS students (from district-managed, charter, contract, and options schools). These programs provide greater equity and access to arts programming across the district, while celebrating our students’ creativity, innovation, and talent.
Our Programs
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All-City Performing Arts (ACPA)
ACPA is one of CPS' oldest art traditions, going into its 61st year for SY 24-25. All students in grades 3rd–12th, in beginning through advanced levels in their art forms, are eligible to join this districtwide music, theater, and dance program.
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All-City Visual Arts (ACVA)
In collaboration with Design Museum of Chicago, the ACVA exhibition showcases 2D, 3D, and time-based artwork by CPS students in grades PreK–12 from any CPS school (including district-managed, charter, contract, and options schools).
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ART on THE MART
In conjunction with All-City Visual Arts (ACVA), ART on THE MART highlights selected CPS student artwork (K-12) from the ACVA Exhibition and Senior Portfolio Showcase in a collaborative exhibition that is projected on Chicago’s iconic downtown building, the Merchandise Mart.
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Arts Student Voice Committee (ASVC)
ASVC is a diverse group of CPS high school students who work with the Department of Arts Education (DAE) team to discuss, create, and execute strategies for improving arts education in Chicago Public Schools.
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RE:ALIZE
RE:ALIZE is an early college program created in partnership with the CPS Department of Arts Education, Columbia College Chicago & Wells Community Academy High School that provides a one or two-year sequence of college coursework in Dance, Music, Theatre or Visual Arts.
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RE·VER·BER·ATE Festival
Located in downtown Chicago, RE·VER·BER·ATE is a free multidisciplinary CPS arts festival featuring student (PreK-12) performances and exhibitions, as well as workshops and masterclasses led by CPS leadership and professional artists.
Contact Info CPS Arts Department
Chicago Public Schools
42 W. Madison St, 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60602