Transforming Facilities Management Across Chicago Public Schools
316,000+
STUDENTS SERVED
630
CAMPUSES SUPPORTED
LARGEST PUBLIC
SCHOOL SYSTEM
IN THE U.S.
In recent years, Chicago Public Schools struggled with quality and program management, leading to inventory issues, budget strain, excess supplies and frustration among staff — from leaders to custodians to teachers. They needed change, and it wasn't just new hygiene and cleaning supplies — they needed a renewed trust in a facilities service provider.
CPS found the right partner in 2023 when Cintas reached out at the perfect time. The result was improved operational efficiency across 560+ schools and renewed trust across custodial teams and district leadership.
Key Takeaways:
- CPS faced inconsistent service, unmanaged inventory, excess supply costs, and operational inefficiencies
- Cintas introduced standardized weekly deliveries, par‑level inventory controls, and a district‑wide floor‑care program.
- Over 560 schools experienced improved efficiency, reduced waste, and greater consistency.
- Custodial teams and administrators reported renewed trust in facilities operations.
- The partnership established a scalable, transparent facilities management model for the entire district.
The Problem and Challenges
In 2021, CPS facilities leaders, including Executive Director of Facility Services Rob Christlieb, noticed declining service quality and trust with their previous provider. Despite having surplus products, extra chemical and supply shipments created inventory challenges and increased costs. Custodial teams spent more time searching for what they needed instead of focusing on cleaning. Christlieb affirmed, “We realized their model was not the best for us because of the way costs and supplies were being allocated. They weren’t doing inventory or par levels. So we would run out of stuff. And then it would cause a special order and more costs.”
In the absence of reliable tracking and reporting procedures, Christlieb’s team learned its former provider not only reordered unnecessary items but added unapproved cleaning brands.
“Lacking consultation with us, they changed everything from one product brand to another. We had a stockpile of original products in our schools. And the next year they switched,” he said. “The new brand may be better or cheaper, but none of those things were addressed, and more importantly, they did not have a plan for using up the original products. We have too much, which is another issue.”
Ultimately, it was the combination of indifference, poor communication and inadequate processes that proved too much. “Our former provider had cleaning machines for mops and towels, but how well that load was getting washed is one more question. I think there were inconsistencies in quality control,” Christlieb commented. “And they went through our buildings and changed out all of our dispensers without going through the proper environmental process. Every hole we drill has to follow certain procedures. We found they didn’t do any of that.”
The Solutions
Standardized Weekly Deliveries & Par‑Level Inventory
When Cintas stepped in as part of a pilot program for 240 Chicago Public Schools, the impact was immediate and measurable. Just weeks after the initial program rollout, CPS facilities leaders and school administrators noticed a difference in professionalism and execution. They expanded Cintas services over time with the addition of 320 sites, and plans are underway to incorporate another 40 schools with the eventual goal to service all 630 sites across the CPS footprint.
Cintas now serves as CPS’s one-stop solution for facility care — providing mats, mops, microfiber towels and cleaning chemicals, plus a collection of restroom hygiene essentials. The partnership even extends to summer floor care for hundreds of CPS education buildings.
“What we really liked about Cintas was weekly deliveries and the par levels that allowed us to hone expenses. That took away one of our biggest headaches now that Cintas was delivering on a regular basis and hitting par levels. It allows us to be a little leaner but also feel comfortable. And we know they’ll help in emergency requests,” Christlieb said. “We’ve also had a much better summer project floor care program over the last two years with Cintas.”
Cooperative Purchasing for Cost Control
Cintas also complements its service work with a cooperative purchasing program through OMNIA Partners to extend cost savings to eligible customers.
“I personally like the purchasing agreements. They’re great because somebody else has gone out and done a lot of the work. If we can get the procurement team and the legal team to get on board, and they can see the pathway through to getting an agreement and a contract, then we move ahead. We generally end up having great results from that,” Christlieb stated.
Reliable, Background‑Checked Facility Service Teams
Beyond the service and supply advantages, what sets Cintas apart is each service sales representative’s commitment to personal connection. These representatives are attentive listeners who are thoroughly background checked for trust and safety.
“The Cintas drivers are part of our team, and they are treated as such. There’s a lot of good conversations going on at all levels and in our network area. Plus, our people know that Cintas reps are background checked. It makes it easier to get to the business of doing the business, which is stocking up,” according to Christlieb.
Where uncertainty and inconsistency once persisted, Cintas has brought efficiency and assurance to Chicago Public Schools. The company’s commitment to reliable communication, accurate billing and responsive service has transformed school-wide frustrations into stability. Today, CPS custodians, administrators and leaders now operate with unwavering confidence and peace of mind knowing Cintas scores high marks in reliability.
The Results
Facilities organizations with complex, high‑volume environments—especially in education—often struggle with inconsistent service models, uncontrolled inventories, and procurement red tape.
This case study demonstrates that a centralized, professionally managed facilities program reduces friction, increases oversight, and drastically improves day‑to‑day operations. to create a scalable, standardized service model for your facility.