Chicago Public Schools launched a new program Thursday for parents that allows them to earn "digital badges" when they complete new lessons.
The program, called "Parent University," will start at three schools: Roberto Clemente High School in Humboldt Park, Sir Miles Davis Magnet Elementary in West Englewood and Spencer Technology Academy in Austin.
"We are inviting parents and community members to engage in the learning process while also providing students in Chicago Public Schools to have real life exposure to what it means to be a life-long learner," CPS CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett said in a statement.
Parents can participate in the program for free, and enrollment is not mandatory. If they do enroll, they will earn digital badges as they progress from one lesson to the next, according to CPS. The program also says parents could use the badges as "an indicator of achievement to colleges and employers."
The program is part of an initiative begun by Mayor Rahm Emanuel that previously built 31 parent engagement centers throughout the city.
The "Parent University" at each school will be equipped with a computer lab, a parent resource room, an office area and an activity room, according to CPS.
