CPS District Number: Why One Code Matters So Much
What Is the CPS District Number?
The CPS district number is 299 - the official legal designation for Chicago Public Schools as an independent school district under Illinois law. This single number identifies the entire district in all state and federal records, distinguishing it from Illinois' 850+ other school districts.
Why Families Need to Know This Number
Understanding district number 299 is essential because it serves as the universal shortcut for navigating school systems, completing forms, and accessing resources. Parents use it when filling out state education surveys, filing special education requests, applying for transportation, or reporting issues to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
- Official Documents: The number appears on all CPS legal filings, budget documents, and policy records
- State Reporting: ISBE uses District 299 to track accountability data for 350,000+ students across 650 schools
- Special Education: OCR investigations reference CPS District #299 when addressing disability discrimination cases
- Legal Proceedings: Federal court documents consistently cite District Number 299 as the governing entity
Key Facts About District 299
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Chicago Public Schools, District 299 |
| ISBE District Code | 15016299025 |
| Student Enrollment | ~350,000 (2025-26) |
| Number of Schools | 650+ |
| S superintendent | Dr. Macqueline King |
| Central Office | 42 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL 60602 |
| Main Phone | 773-553-1000 |
How the District Number Differs from School Numbers
Many families confuse district number 299 with individual school numbers or network designations. CPS organizes its schools into 17 administrative networks, but each school retains its unique identifier within District 299.
- District Level: Number 299 = entire Chicago Public Schools system
- School Level: Each of 650 schools has its own 6-digit code (e.g., 141001 for a specific elementary)
- Network Level: 17 networks provide administrative support but don't change the district number
- Office Locations: Regional offices use GSR numbers (e.g., GSR #125 for Central Office)
Where to Find Your School's Information
Use the CPS School Locator tool to search by name, address, or zip code. This tool helps families identify their assigned neighborhood school, check attendance boundaries, and find contact details for specific schools within District 299.
Frequently Asked Questions
Marist Education Perspective on District Governance
From a Catholic education leadership standpoint, understanding district structures like District 299 helps school administrators navigate partnerships between public and faith-based institutions. Marist schools across Latin America similarly operate within complex governance frameworks where clear district identification enables effective community engagement.
School leaders should recognize that district numbers serve as critical infrastructure for accountability, just as Marist pedagogy emphasizes transparent governance aligned with spiritual and social mission. This clarity supports student-focused outcomes whether in public systems or Catholic schools.
Key concerns and solutions for Cps District Number Why One Code Matters So Much
What is the CPS district number?
The CPS district number is 299, which is the official legal designation for Chicago Public Schools as an independent school district in Illinois.
Why is it called District 299?
District 299 is the Illinois State Board of Education's unique identifier for Chicago Public Schools, distinguishing it from all other 850+ school districts in Illinois.
Where do I use the district number 299?
You use it on state education forms, special education requests, transportation applications, ISBE reports, and when contacting government agencies about CPS services.
Is District 299 the same as Chicago Public Schools?
Yes. "Chicago Public Schools, District 299" is the complete legal name. The district number is simply the official shorthand used in government records.
How do I find my specific school's number?
Use the CPS School Locator tool online or call 311. Your school's individual code differs from the district number 299 and appears on report cards and enrollment documents
What if I need to contact CPS about district-level issues?
Call Central Office at 773-553-1000 or the Board Office at 773-553-1600. Both are located at 42 W. Madison St. and 1 N. Dearborn St., respectively, under GSR #125.
