CHICAGO, ILLINOIS (CBS News Chicago) –LEARN Charter Network marked the beginning of its 25th school year with a special first-day visit from CBS News Chicago at LEARN Romano Butler, the network’s original campus.

The live coverage highlighted LEARN’s distinctive approach to the school calendar. LEARN begins the school year three weeks earlier than many surrounding schools, providing its 4,000 scholars with additional instructional time and an earlier opportunity to return to a safe, engaging learning environment.

The milestone was also celebrated with State Senator Lakesia Collins, who joined Romano Butler Principal Sharanda Morehead, scholars, families, and staff as the school community welcomed students back for another year of learning and growth.

For LEARN, the start of the 25th school year represents more than the beginning of another academic year. It is a milestone in the network’s ongoing commitment to providing Chicago families with high-quality, tuition-free public education and creating learning environments where scholars are supported to reach their full potential.

The first day at Romano Butler reflected the energy and sense of community that have been part of the LEARN experience for 25 years—students returning to familiar faces, families reconnecting with educators, and teachers welcoming scholars into a new year filled with opportunity.

LEARN thanks Lauren Victory and the CBS News Chicago team for highlighting the excitement and purpose behind the start of the 2026–27 school year and for helping share this important milestone with the broader Chicago community.

Watch the CBS News Chicago coverage.