Ombudsman Chicago is a tuition‐free program that gives students who have dropped out of high school a new option for earning a Chicago Public Schools high school diploma. Our program combines computer-based coursework with personal support and face‐to‐face instruction from caring, certified teachers in a professional, alternative learning environment.
Since opening as a Chicago Public Schools Options Schools program in 2013, more than 9500 students have been educated at the four Ombudsman campuses, and nearly 1500 students have graduated with a CPS diploma. Across all Ombudsman Chicago campuses, we have an average graduation rate of 84%.
Ombudsman Chicago, CPS, and the communities we serve give students a second chance to meet their high school goals, and make positive choices about college, a career – about life – after high school.
Ombudsman is designed for students who have dropped out of high school and want to earn their diploma. Students are eligible to attend Ombudsman if they are between ages 16-21, returning to grades 9-12, and residents of the city of Chicago.
Ombudsman operates four campuses in the Chicagoland area, and students can enroll in any location that’s convenient for them. Chicago Options School Programs are free for Chicago Public Schools students ages 16-21.