Chicago Public Schools students attend a festive return-to-school event, organized by Angel Reese
Chicago saw a double dose of excitement as two back-to-school events took place on the Northwest and Near West Sides of the city.
Angel Reese's Back-to-School Bash
Chicago Sky star Angel Reese hosted a back-to-school celebration on August 16, 2025, at International Sports Chicago. The event featured live music, food, and basketball activities, making it an enjoyable day for all.
Approximately 2,000 students received new Reebok backpacks filled with school supplies. Reese also provided words of encouragement to the students, inspiring them to achieve their goals. The event was part of the Angel Reese Foundation's efforts to support the community, particularly focusing on assisting students with the back-to-school season.
Chicago Teachers Union's Summer Jam
The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) hosted its third annual Back-to-School Summer Jam on the Near West Side. Thousands of free books were distributed to help students prepare for the new school year. Additionally, a free salon visit was offered to help kids get ready with new hairdos.
Teacher Yexx Lajeune said the event was organized to give students spirit, motivation, and confidence for the new school year. Dr. Diane Castro, CTU's elementary functional vice president, expressed enthusiasm about giving back to the community and supporting students and families.
As Chicago Public Schools resumed classes on Monday, these back-to-school events provided a boost of excitement and support for the city's students. Both events aim to instill spirit, motivation, and confidence in students as they begin the new school year.
Sports enthusiasts can relish the news about Angel Reese's Back-to-School Bash, which encompassed basketball activities and live music, merging entertainment with education-and-self-development. Meanwhile, the Chicago Teachers Union's Summer Jam offered students free books for learning and a chance to get a new hairdo, demonstrating the intersection of law (education) and entertainment in fostering a successful academic year.
