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TRANSCRIPT
A RESOURCE GUIDE TO CHICAGOLAND SCHOOLSPreschools, Elementary, High Schools, Boarding, Enrichment,
Special Needs, Academic Tutoring Services and more
EducationGuide
MakingtheGrade
A
January 2011SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
2010 -11 Open House Dates
Please join us for coffee and a tour.
A Catholic School Educating Children Preschool to 8th Grade 720 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago, IL 60657
773-525-8779 [email protected]
www.mountcarmelacademy.org
How do we prepare your child for
acceptance to the top ranked high schools
in Chicago?
By demanding excellence in
performance and attitude of our
students, teachers and you.
MCAMount Carmel Academy
Tuesday, January 11 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Sunday, January 30 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tuesday, February 8 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, March 8 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, April 12 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, May 10 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
888.462.4693 D www.thehoweschool.org
The Howe SchoolPreparing Global Leaders Since 1884
Where every student graduates with honor.
The Howe School is listed among the top
20 boarding schools for affordability.
D Co-ed boarding, grades 5-12
D 100% college acceptance rate for 2010
D 21st Century portfolio exit curriculum
D Ranked as JROTC honor school with distinction
D Full competitive athletic program
D Diverse international enrollment
D Leadership training through education, character and application
SECOND SEMESTER ENROLLMENT STARTS JANUARY 5TH
ExcellenceThe Howe SchoolK 126 Years of Excellence L
IN LEADERSHIP AND ACADEMICS
a Northern Illinois University partner
Worlds of Wisdom and Wonder Project 2011Summer Wonders
Now Enrolling for Winter, Spring, and Summer 2011Un ique and Cha l leng ing Prog rams for Br ight and Ta lented Youth i n Grades PreK - 12!
Buffalo GroveGrades Prek - 6
SkokieGrades 6 - 12
Winter/Spring - Grades PreK - 10
Summer - Grades PreK - 6 or 8
Elmhurst
Burr Ridge GlenviewChicago (Beverly) GurneeChicago (Lakeview) NapervilleChicago (Oriole Park) Oak ForestElgin Skokie
Burr Ridge Feb. 20, 27, March 6, 13, 20Elmhurst Jan. 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13Oak Forest Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6River Forest March 27, Apr. 3, 10, 17, May 1Wheeling Jan. 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13
Making the Grade 2011 1A
at our Skokie Campus9301 Gross Point Road
Features of our Marvell D. and Stanley J. GinsburgPre-Kindergarten Program include:
• Five days, Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
• Aftercare available with two options – part-dayuntil 3:30 pm and full-day until 6:00 pm
• Developmental, emergent, play-based curriculum
• Low 8:1 student to teacher ratio
• Brand new furnishings and learning centers
• Integrated literacy, math and science activities
• Library, art, music and movement
Children must be three by September 1, 2011
Sponsored by Midwest Region United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Affiliated with theCommunity Foundation for Jewish Education, a partner in serving our community, supported by
the Jewish United Fund / Jewish Federation.www.schechter.org
We invite you to join ourSolomon Schechter
Pre-K community!
This multi-age program for 3 and 4 yearolds provides a dynamic environmentof learning, cooperation and empathyas each child’s intellectual needs arestimulated and social and emotionalneeds are nurtured.
Call today for more information!
Leslie Rosen SternAssociate Director of Enrollment
(847) [email protected]
2 Making the Grade 2011 A
3 & 4 year-old Preschool• Junior Kindergarten• All Day Kindergarten• Before & After School Care• Pre K-8th Spanish Instruction• Reading Specialist• Speech Pathologist• Full Time Nurse•
1123 Church Street Glenview, IL 60025 Phone: 847.724.6990 www.olph-il.org
Come and Explore...
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School
Wireless Campus• State-of-Art Computer Lab• Interactive Smart Boards• Swimming Pool• Instructional Theatre Program• Junior High Chorus• Jazz, Rock and Concert Bands• 5th - 8th Grade Sports Teams•
A Private Education in the Finest Catholic Tradition
Making the Grade 2011 3A
STAFFAlena Murguia
advertorial coordinator
Walter Burden,Dawn Engelhardt,Erika Goodman,
Lourdes Nicholls,Karen Skinner,
Lisa Turnerdisplay advertising sales
Bronwyn Soellmarketplace sales
Philip Soelladvertising production
manager
Andrew Meadadvertising design manager
Stephanie Ansel,Elisha-Rio Apilado,
Debbie Becker,Evan O’Brien
advertising design
Kathy Hansencirculation manager
Dan Haleypublisher
Andrew Johnstonoperations director
Making the Grade ispublished by
Wednesday Journal, Inc.
For more information on stories or advertising rates call
(708) 386-5555,fax at (708) 524-8360
or write us at 141 S. Oak Park Ave.Oak Park, IL 60302.
© 2011
5 Social media in educationBy Patti Minglin
10 How many languages can your 4-year-old speak?By Kimberly Kutnick
15 The written wordBy Molly Logan Anderson
23 Students hit the roadBy Tricia Despres
29 High school students preparing for the futureBy Patty Keyuranggul
33 Extracurricular service learningBy Penny Murad
37 Students returning as teachersBy Patti Minglin
Cover image courtesy of the Francis Parker
School
EducationGuide
MakingtheGrade
SPECIALADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
4 Making the Grade 2011 A
Inspiration begins here.
The Catherine Cook School inspires children for life in a nurturing learning environment. Focused on the formative years of preschool through 8th grade, rigorous academics are supported by leading-edge technology to give your child the skills to be smart, curious and adaptive.
Visit us online or in person.catherinecookschool.org
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Visit us online for more information about the success of young men just like your son -
learn how the Class of 2010 earned $3.2 million in college scholarships.
Success is Created Here!With a structured program focused on academic performance, character
development and athletic achievement, MMA can bring out the best in your son
in grades 6-12.
Making the Grade 2011 5A
Social media in educationBy PATTI MINGLIN
Education Gets SocialSocial media has moved from the
fringes of college student conversa-tions to become part of the daily lives of all students —a fact that school fac-ulty and staff have to deal with at ev-ery grade level. While in the past, one would find policies and procedures to deter the use of such tools as Face-book and Twitter, today’s schools are embracing this emerging new media and using it as a way to not only better their communication with parents and alumni, but teach students life lessons that will serve them well beyond school walls.
Improving CommunicationsWith so many students, parents,
faculty and alumni now having social
media accounts, these tools are now being used as part of a school’s overall communication strategy. “Facebook has been a great resource for connect-ing with our alumni about upcoming events such as our art auction,” says Pat-ti O’Donoghue of Council Oak Montes-sori School in Chicago. “We combine Facebook with other communication efforts like sending out e-mails.” Twitter is also becoming part of the communi-cation process with schools such as the Missouri Military Academy in Mexico, MO, which uses it to send links back to their site where parents and alumni can see what the boys are doing and achieving on a daily basis.
Now that there are endless options for how schools communicate with their various audiences, new policies are in place regarding how faculty and staff communicate with their students on an
individual basis. “We discourage fac-ulty from having any type of social me-dia relationship with current students,” says Cory Stutts of The Catherine Cook School in Chicago. However, most schools agree that social media can ac-tually enhance a teacher’s relationship with former students. “As a teacher, you have the opportunity to make a dif-ference in the lives of students,” says Bill Mierisch of The Catherine Cook School. “Social media is a great way to continue making that difference after those students have moved beyond your classroom and are now out in the world.”
A New Sense of ResponsibilityWhile social media has provided
schools with a great way to communi-cate, it has also given them an opportu-
PHOTO COURTESY OF THECATHERINE COOK SCHOOL
Students and parents are made aware of the rules and educational possi-bilities that accompany the use of laptops.
continued on page 6
6 Making the Grade 2011 A
nity to help students gain a new sense of responsibility—an asset that will help them succeed in a world outside the classroom. “We have conversations with our students on how to use social media in a responsible and effective way,” says Council Oak’s O’Donoghue. Those conversations—which are hap-pening at most schools—include such topics as not sharing passwords with friends or giving personal information to strangers as well as empowering students to take responsibility for their own actions.
At Missouri Military Academy, stu-dents participate in an annual pre-sentation on the proper etiquette and safety of social media use and how what they say or post online today can affect their futures in positive or nega-tive ways. “It is really an eye-opening moment for our boys when they realize colleges and universities are looking at what they are putting out there and it may affect their chances of getting into a school,” says Andy Craig.
This responsibility extends beyond
just the posting of pictures and infor-mation on their personal accounts and also includes being responsible for their interactions with others via new media tools. “We recently implement-ed the Guerin Prep Cyber Bully Tip Line, a dedicated, anonymous source for stu-dents or parents to address any issues of harassment that occur in person, as well as electronically via the Internet, cell phones, texting, social network-ing, or other device,” adds Sister Dawn Tomaszewski of Guerin Prep in River Grove.
And what if someone else posts in-formation from a student’s account? “As part of our written policy, students understand that they are responsible for their account even when they are not the ones behind the keyboard,” says Brenda Buschbacher of Illinois Math and Science Academy in Aurora.
The Social Media DistractionAs is often evidenced by parents as
they struggle to keep their students fo-cused on homework and not on status updates, the proliferation of social me-dia tools has given a new meaning to the phrase “in-class distraction.” Many schools—especially those who have
school-issued laptops--have strategies in place to ensure students keep their minds on education and not on con-necting with their online communities. “Personal use is prohibited for the boys during the academic day,” says Mis-souri Military’s Craig. “We know that temptation can get the best of them, so we have made it impossible to log on during the day to try and sneak a peek at their status updates during class.”
Keeping the focus on education seems to be the key for all in-school computer use. “While we certainly pro-mote the use of technology, we use it to create an environment that doesn’t inhibit education, but enhances it,” says Buschbacher. Toward that goal, stu-dents utilizing computers in the com-mon areas of IMSA must always defer their online recreational activities to anyone that needs a computer for edu-cational purposes—this rule is even part of the school’s IT policy which is signed by all students. “It’s the same kind of information I would tell my own son, like don’t go on Facebook before your homework is done.”
Parent Involvement“We believe that direct parent in-
Social mediacontinued from page 5
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4343 West Sunnyside Avenue Chicago, IL 60630
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Join us for our Open Houseand see first-hand how special St. Edward is!
January 30, 2011 10:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Outstanding academic program
Small class sizes
Exemplary elementary music program
Interscholastic and intramural sports program
Foreign language and other academic enrichment programs
Close-knit school/Parish community
Provides local families a quality, faith-based education for children in 3 year-old preschool through eighth grade for nearly 100 years
1910 2010
Saint Edward School
ST. EDWARD SCHOOL
Making the Grade 2011 7A
volvement is a key component in de-veloping every aspect of a child’s life,” says Guerin’s Tomaszewski. “Open communication about social media, its value as well as its liabilities, is en-couraged.” Toward that goal, Guerin Prep invites parents to regularly at-tend informational sessions regard-ing computer use, in particular safety issues.
The Catherine Cook School hosts mandatory parent/student meetings as they pick up their school-issued laptops each year. The meetings not only discuss the specifics regarding tech policies and procedures, but also open up a dialogue with parents regarding the tools their students will be using and advice for setting social media guidelines at home.
School leaders encourage parents to be as much a part of the new media dialogue as possible and continue to ask questions and seek information from not only their students, but from faculty. “What we need to do is to pre-pare our students for the future they will inhabit,” says Catherine Cook’s Stutts. “We must partner together as adults and stay engaged in the won-derful new tools that are available.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ILLINOIS MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
Schools have policies in place to keep students focused on education, not status updates.
Bethesda Lutheran does not discriminate on the basis of race/ethnicity, color, national origin, sex or disability in the administration of any educational programs, admission policies, scholarship programs, athletics, recreational and
other school administered programs.
Learn more about our faculty and programs at www.bethesdalutheranschool.org
Enroll today!Call the school office to
schedule a tour or enroll your child.
Bethesda Lutheran SchoolBee-lieve in us!
6803 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL Phone: 773/743-0800 Fax: 773/743-4415
• Preschool through Grade 8• Fully accredited• Culturally diverse• Academically robust in a positive,
nurturing environment
SOLON Bilingual PrepPRESCHOOL and KINDERGARTEN 773-561-5992Located within Saint Demetrios Church 2727 W. Winona, Chicago 60625
Leader in Education for Over 50 Years
Full/Half Day
Complete Preparation for 1st Grade in Both Greek and English Languages
located near LINCOLN SQUARE
K-12 Evening and Saturday Classes
Adult Classes
REGISTRATION IS OPEN…ARRANGE A SCHOOL TOUR
Why Learn GREEK?
Greek is the language of Success. It is the language of Medicine, Science and Math, Art, Philosophy… A GREEK
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8 Making the Grade 2011 A
CITYAshburn Lutheran School3345 W. 83rd St, Chicago(773) 737-2156 www.ashburnlutheranschool.orgDr. Joy Packard-Higgins, Principal
Bethesda Lutheran School & Preschool6803 N. Campbell Ave. (773) 743-0800www.bethesdalutheranschool.org Patricia Grunde, Principal & Childcare DirectorGrades Served: PreK (3yr)-8th
Jehovah Lutheran School3740 W. Belden, Chicago, 60647(773)342-5854Jehovahlutheranschool.shutterfly.comMrs. JoEllen T. Hoffman, PrincipalGrades Served: PreK(3yr)-8th grade
Messiah Lutheran School6200 W. PattersonChicago, 60634(773) 736-6600www.messiahchicago.orgGrades Served: PreK-8th grade
Park View Lutheran School3919 N. MonticelloChicago 60618(773) 267-0072www.parkviewlutheran.orgRev. Dr. David Nelson, Headmaster & PastorGrades preK - 8th, extended care
Pilgrim Lutheran4300 N. Winchester, Chicago, 60613(773) 477-4824pilgrimlutheranchurchandschool.orgDavid Maring, PrincipalGrades Served: PreK-8th, extended care
Resurrection Lutheran School9349 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago(773) 928-6312resurrectionlutheranschool.comMrs. Shirley Johnson, PrincipalPreK–6th Grade, Extended Care, Action for Childhood
Resurrection Preschool3309 N. Seminary, Chicago(773) 525-0605www.rlclakeview.orgDebbie Mytych, Preschool Director Ages served: 3-5 years
St. James Lutheran School2101 N. Fremont St.Chicago 60614(773) 525-4990www.stjames-lutheran.orgWarren Gast, PrincipalGrades PreK - 8, extended care
St. John’s Lutheran School4939 W. Montrose Avenue Chicago 60641(773) 736-1196www.StJohnsChicago.orgDouglas Markworth, Principal
St. Philip Lutheran School2500 West Bryn Mawr, Chicago(773) 561-3044www.stphiliplutheran.comDonna Tennis, PrincipalGrades Served: PreK(3)-8th
NORTHJerusalem Lutheran School6218 Capulina, Morton Grove(847) 965-4750www.jerusalemlutheranschool.orgMichael Naumann, PrincipalAges 3 – 14, extended care
SOUTHChrist Lutheran Ev Church C.L.E.W.S. Preschool14700 S. 94th Ave., Orland Park(708) 349-0171www.christlutheranorland.comPatti Bareither, Director
Immanuel Lutheran Crossroads Preschool4800 W. Sauk Trail, Richton Park(708) 748-7023Jean Turek, DirectorPreK 3 to 1st Grade
WESTGood Shepherd Lutheran School525 63rd St., Downers Grove(630) 852-5081www.gsdg.orgScott Schmudlach, Principal3 yr. PreK – Grade 8, extended care
Grace Lutheran School7300 W. Division, River Forest(708) 366-6900www.graceriverforest.org/schoolHugh W. Kress, PrincipalMs. Kendall Grigg, Principal3 yr. PreK –8
Immanuel Lutheran School50 Hart Rd., Batavia(630) 406-0157www.immanuelbatavia.orgGlenn A. Steinbrenner, PrincipalParent-Toddler program, PreK – Grade 8, Extended Care
St. Peter Lutheran School111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights(847) 253-6638www.stpeter-ah.org PreK – 8th grade, Before and After Care
Excellence in Christian Education
Commitment to Children
Quality Care Christian Values
National Lutheran Schools Week 2011
March 6 - March 12
Lutheran schools admit students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin.
"Securing Each Child's Future—For Eternity"John 3:16
Making the Grade 2011 9A
A Worldof Learning
We provide students ages 3-18 with an individualized approach to learning,where student and teacher work together to develop a personalizedlearning plan.
Opportunities for growth are rich andvaried, with strong enrichment programsand an emphasis on learning languages.
[email protected] www.britishschoolofchicago.org
British School of Chicago
Lincoln Park Preparatory & Kindergarten108 W Germania Place
Chicago, IL 60610 312-482-9009
[email protected] www.lincolnparkprep.com
Lincoln Park Preschool312 W. Belden
Chicago, IL 60614 773-665-0110
[email protected] www.lincolnparkpreschool.com
Year round program for ages 2 through Kindergarten
2, 3, or 5 day programs availableIndividual tours given daily, call to schedule
10 Making the Grade 2011 A
By KIMBERLY KUTNICK
Everything starts early with the current generation of children. Pre-Kindergarten is the new Kin-
dergarten. Expectations are higher. This includes foreign language study. From full immersion programs to sup-plemental study, foreign language ac-quisition has become a popular trend for even the youngest students.
Early foreign language immersion can be a positive and successful ap-proach to learning foreign language while complementing other non-lan-guage studies. Some schools base their curriculum completely around immersion, offering programs for tod-dlers, preschool and kindergarten. For these schools, the benefits for both for-eign language and regular learning are overwhelmingly positive.
Maria Fermi-Crawford, Founder/Director of The Language and Mu-
sic School in Oak Park, has watched children participate since her school opened in 1993. “The benefits of learn-ing a foreign language are virtually endless. The greatest positive impact that I have witnessed is the sheer con-fidence that grows inside of them!” Ra-chel Lochtefeld, K-8 French teacher at Armitage Academy adds, “Some peo-ple are inherently more fascinated by language than others; some have more pressing academic or social-emotional development needs. Many, many chil-dren thrive in a multi-lingual setting.”
Foreign language immersion can al-so benefit students by creating a cultural connection. According to Rabbi Sheryl Katzman, Principal of Skokie Solomon Schechter Elementary School, “In a Jewish Day School, where Hebrew lan-guage is essential to the transmission of Jewish tradition to Jewish children, early Hebrew language acquisition al-
lows children to gain a greater degree of fluency earlier which strengthens the children’s connection to their roots….It allows our students to build a close connection to their culture and heri-tage.”
Given the increasing academic and social demands on preschoolers, is early foreign language immersion too much, too early and too fast? Accord-ing to Nicole McKheen, Assistant Di-rector of Chalk Preschool, “Children are little sponges at this age. And, like any other subject, it depends on how it is approached. At CHALK, we incor-porate Spanish throughout our typical daily routines and schedule.” Karen Gould MacGilvray, Director of Educa-tion for Language Stars, adds, “We are committed to the idea that by making it fun, children are motivated to learn crucial, lifelong skills literally through
How many languages can your4-year-old speak?
PHOTO COURTESYOF LANGUAGE STARS
Language Stars is committed to the idea that keeping language fun mo-tivates children to learn language as a life-long skill.
continued on page 12
Making the Grade 2011 11A
ALGONQUIN ...................................................847-515-7555ARLINGTON HEIGHTS ..................................847-840-8267AURORA - SOUTHEAST ................................630-926-8538BARTLETT ......................................................630-540-9771BLOOMINGDALE............................................630-539-7788BOLINGBROOK ..............................................630-226-1818BUFFALO GROVE - NORTH .........................847-913-1530BUFFALO GROVE - SOUTH ..........................847-942-8510CAROL STREAM ............................................630-372-2240CARY ...............................................................847-639-6169CHICAGO - ANDERSONVILLE .....................773-828-8191CHICAGO - HYDE PARK ...............................773-955-7010CHICAGO - LINCOLN AVENUE ....................773-463-7788CHICAGO - NORTHWEST .............................773-931-6284CHICAGO - SOUTH LOOP .............................312-791-1440DARIEN ...........................................................630-747-6576DES PLAINES .................................................847-803-4547DOWNERS GROVE ........................................630-964-5070ELK GROVE ....................................................847-545-4742ELMHURST ......................................................847-895-5347EVANSTON .....................................................847-440-7625GENEVA ..........................................................630-262-3322GLEN ELLYN ...................................................630-545-4149GLENVIEW .....................................................847-729-3592GRAYSLAKE ...................................................847-223-7290GURNEE ..........................................................847-625-8666HINSDALE .......................................................630-779-5894HOFFMAN ESTATES ......................................847-991-4403HOMER GLEN .................................................708-301-2990
LAKE BLUFF ...................................................847-615-2889LAKE ZURICH .................................................847-550-9748LINCOLNSHIRE ..............................................847-520-1281LOMBARD .......................................................630-629-1985MCHENRY .......................................................815-344-3202MUNDELEIN SOUTH/VERNON HILLS ........847-573-0560NAPERVILLE - EAST .....................................630-983-9483NAPERVILLE - NORTH ..................................630-717-6996NAPERVILLE - SOUTH ..................................630-926-8538NILES ...............................................................847-324-5120NORTHBROOK ...............................................847-412-0401OAK PARK ......................................................630-306-4472ORLAND PARK - SOUTH .............................708-364-0626PALATINE........................................................847-942-8510PARK RIDGE ...................................................847-939-5090PLAINFIELD ....................................................630-922-8090SCHAUMBURG - CENTRAL ..........................847-592-5172SCHAUMBURG - EAST ..................................224-659-9757SCHAUMBURG - NORTHEAST .....................847-519-7788SHOREWOOD - JOLIET ................................815-267-8888SKOKIE ............................................................847-763-1780SOUTH ELGIN .................................................847-488-9408WAUCONDA ...................................................847-526-1669WEST DUNDEE ..............................................847-426-6284WHEATON ......................................................630-510-7788WHEELING .....................................................847-7262696WILLOWBROOK ............................................630-321-0111WILMETTE ......................................................847-729-3592
12 Making the Grade 2011 A
child’s play! Our FunImmer-sion® method and curriculum depend on dynamic games, art projects, obstacle courses, songs and more to create en-gaged and happy learners….The children learn without realizing it—it’s like sneaking broccoli into brownies!”
While Sheryl Seef, Lead Teacher of the Marvell and Stanley z”l Ginsburg PreK at Solomon Schechter, also agrees that preschool isn’t too early. She points out that approaches should be individual-child focused. “It is important to recognize if a child is struggling in their native language. If there are challenges in receptive or ex-pressive language for a child in their native language, im-mersing them in a second lan-guage can present additional challenges that need to be addressed.” Fermi-Crawford
adds, “While it may seem like a lot to throw at children of such young ages, I must assert that it truly is not. Our program follows the same routine each and every day so that a child will never feel overwhelmed. Instead, there is a sense of confidence that builds within them because they start to see that every-thing is beginning to ‘click’.”
According to Gould MacGilvray, “Neurolinguistic research shows that learning a second language young brings numerous cognitive benefits, some quite surpris-ing. Such benefits include improved math scores on basic skills tests in elemen-tary school, and then later on SATs, improved problem solving skills, better spatial relations skills, and enhanced overall verbal skills in all lan-guages.” She continues, “MRI scans have revealed enhanced brain develop-ment in students who start young—in the case of early
PHOTO COURTESY OFSOLOMON SCHECHTER SCHOOL
Foreign language can benefit students by creating a cultural connection.
Languagecontinued from page 10
Total Child Preschool and Childcare Center
Totally committed to your child’s cognitive, physical, emotional and social development.
Open HouseJanuary 26 & 279:30 – 11:30 a.m.
516 Church Street, Evanston
For tours, call 847-864-7100 or visit www.totalchild.org
for program descriptions.A nonsectarian program sponsored by theFirst United Methodist Church of Evanston
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YOUR CHILD WILL THANK YOU...IN ANOTHER LANGUAGE!Turn fun into an invaluable learning experience with FunImmersion®, a foreign language program for children ages 1-10. Enroll in Spanish, French, German, Italian or Mandarin at any of our 15 Chicagoland locations. Children have fun and learn...without even knowing it!
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Making the Grade 2011 13A
foreign language learning, scientists have discovered that bilingual adults have developed denser gray mat-ter in the left hemisphere where language and com-munications skills are con-trolled, and that the effect is strongest in people who learned a second language by the age of five. Knowing more than one language is also associated with sharper senior brainpower, holding off typical age-related cog-nitive slowdown.”
M. Erika Camarena, Di-rector and Lead Teacher at Mi Sol Montessori, agrees, “Notable cognitive benefits can be attributed to the full acquisition of a second lan-guage. These can include: enhanced capacity for rea-soning and analysis which translates into a deeper un-derstanding of concepts or the capacity to understand and carry out math opera-tions. In the area of Language Arts, the benefits are signifi-
cant. The second language allows the child to become aware of the characteristics of language which translates into a high capacity for vo-cabulary, spelling and com-prehension.” Lochtefeld also concurs, “Studies show that bilingual people consistent-ly score higher on academic testing and perform better in school. The understand-ing is that more complex neuronal patterns are estab-lished in the brain through the process of speaking mul-tiple languages.”
There are numerous ben-efits to teaching young chil-dren multiple languages, from increased confidence to cultural connections and neurological development. All schools agree that the most important thing is that your child has fun and stays engaged in foreign lan-guage learning.
A Nurturing Beginning For A Strong Future
2-6 year old Programs
Open Enrollment for 2011-2012 Begins January 19th
Chris ianBeginnings
FULL AND PART TIME CHILD CARE
& PRESCHOOL
6 weeks – 5 year olds
We are expanding and openings are available!
www.littlegreentreehouse.comtel 312.492.9876 | fax 312.492.6543
118 south ashland avenue | chicago, il 60607
14 Making the Grade 2011 A
1335 West Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60607
www.montessoriacademychicago.org
That’s why we tailor our curriculum
to each student, developing engaged
and independent thinkers. A low
student-teacher ratio ensures
individual attention in a caring and
structured environment.
Applications now being accepted for September 2011 (six weeks - third grade)
Making the Grade 2011 15A
By MOLLY LOGAN ANDERSON
Read a text or email these days and your head is likely left spin-ning from the shorthand writing
and techno-speak you’ll find inside. As a matter of fact, you might wonder what’s happening to writing in our local schools as a result of the lingo used by kids these days. The good news is that celebration of the written word has nev-er been more prolific than it is in our lo-cal elementary schools. Public, private and parochial institutions are finding new ways to engage the creative writer inside each student, while also clinging to traditional skills like grammar and paragraph development. Showcasing writing as a competency for our kids ensures good communicators will lead the way in coming years.
Focus on the basicsMany schools focus on beginner
tools like reading development in or-der to inspire the writer inside. As early as kindergarten and first grade, Saint Clement students experience young child authorship. Whether this happens through story dictation or presentation before children are writing themselves, or through publishing early works in first grade, students gain experience with the writing process early on. “Stu-dents become very comfortable with it,” says Saint Clement Principal, Melissa Dan. “They do a great deal of writing on a daily basis and show a growth in confidence with their skills. It’s a tes-tament to the writing program here at Saint Clement.”
At Quest Academy in Palatine, edu-cators see writing as a mode of self ex-pression, one way to demonstrate the understanding of concepts and a meth-od of applying the knowledge of many different concepts. According to Princi-
pal Ben Hevebrand, working through the writing process aids students with systems of organizing information for both oral and written presentations. Students also learn that writing is re-writing. “Careful editing of one’s own written work teaches students to ex-amine their own work through a critical and analytical lens,” says Hevebrand.
For Chicago Grammar School, en-couraging strong roots in grammar basics is the key to developing strong writers. By third grade, Chicago Gram-mar is its own separate class, studied with the Latin language, to ensure that students grasp the background of Eng-lish grammar. “We know that some chil-dren will be very creative while others might not,” says the school’s executive director, Phillip Jackson. “But we want all our students to walk out the door writing good sentences and forming
The written word
PHOTO COURTESY OFDAVINCI ACADEMY
Da Vinci asks students to think deeply about what they’ve experienced be-fore writing about it in clear, vivid language.
continued on page 16
16 Making the Grade 2011 A
great paragraphs. You have to know grammar in order to be able to get creative.”
Finding a creative threadGetting creative is just
what teachers at Ashburn Lutheran want their students to do. Seventh graders work on a poetry unit, which, at its culmination, results in students compiling their own autobiography of po-etry. Students take pride in showcasing favorite works at the annual poetry coffee-house. In a dark, open-mic style club setting, students perform, audience mem-bers snap their approval, and they all celebrate by drinking coffee. “Poetry is a vehicle for expressing their innermost emotions,” says Ashburn Lutheran teacher, Lynn Schmid. “In the begin-ning, some kids are negative about it, but in the end, they are really proud of the writ-ing they’ve done and think it’s pretty cool to memorize and present it.” According to Schmid, many Ashburn Lutheran students still rave about the poetry coffee-house they participated in five or six years ago.
Exploring one idea in many different ways provides students with a deep un-derstanding of any subject. Da Vinci Academy in Elgin engages kids with interest-ing and thought provoking assignments surrounding the written word, but also with the freedom to express themselves in fun ways. “What we really try to do is expose our students to rich content, in a variety of ways, and ask students to think deeply about what they’ve experienced and express it in clear and vivid language,” says Head of School, Jeffrey Stroebel. “Because we also do this in our discussions, the writing becomes a natu-ral expression of that, rather
than being a chore.” For instance, a recent as-
signment asked students studying The Giver by Lois Lowry to address the idea of a utopian society through creative writing. After read-ing the book and research-ing historical utopian societies, students draft let-ters to President Obama or Vice-President Biden stat-ing a persuasive case for or against a utopian society today. According to Da Vinci middle school language arts teacher, Marge Uhlar-ick- Boller, this exposure to advanced writing gives stu-dents an inroad to more cre-ative writing. “I believe when we write, we often clarify our thought process,” says Uhla-rick-Boller. “For our students, recognizing our thought process is an important part of the learning process.”
Studying diverse topicsthrough writing
From story problems to essays, every subject stud-ied in elementary school requires the ability to write and communicate. Writing development is ongoing and flourishing inside math, social studies and more. At Chicago’s Saint Clement School, a group of children meets as the Humanities Club an hour before school starts to analyze writings of all sorts, from comic strips to graffiti art, whatever the kids find interesting. Starting in fifth grade, kids have the option of a Book Club lunch hour, where they discuss and write about books they’re reading.
A deep historical investi-gation of the Roman Empire by fourth graders at Da Vinci Academy exposed students to related content across the fourth grade curriculum. After this comprehensive study, students were tasked with writing a letter to family as if they were an imprisoned soldier during that historical
Written wordcontinued from page15
continued on page 18
The Glenholme SchoolA Devereux Center
Open enrollment for Glenholme’s middleschool, high school, Glen Ridge post-
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An exceptional boarding school for students withspecial needs; The Glenholme School offers an in-dividually prescribed learning environment witha steadfast academic curriculum. Using our effec-tive individualized services, we apply a positivebehavior support model focused on developmentof social skills and lifelong strategies for success.
The school’s milieu therapy addresses varyinglevels of academic, social and special needs de-velopment in students, both boys and girls, ages10-18 and postgraduates. We prepare graduatesfor continued education in traditional day schools,boarding schools, colleges and universities.
• Asperger’s, ADD, ADHD, emotional, behavioraland learning disabilities• Self-discipline Strategies• Motivational Management• Positive Behavior Supports• Multimedia Curriculum• Career Exploration• Character Development• Social Coaching• Relationship Mentoring
a learning tradition(860) 868.7377
Washington, CTwww.theglenholmeschool.org
Making the Grade 2011 17A
The Avery Coonley School provides gifted students academic
acceleration and enrichment, and fosters a supportive
atmosphere that provides opportunities for creativity,
problem-solving, and risk-taking.
1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, IL 60515
Pre-K–8th Grade Independent School
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Call 630.969.0800 or visitwww.averycoonley.org
to register.
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TODDLER | PRESCHO
OL | BEFO
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L | KINDERGARTEN | ELEMENTARY
It’s more than just preschool.
Step inside to discover why so many families choose Montessori Children’s Schoolhouse. Meet our dedicated teachers, explore our enriched learning environments, and learn how a Montessori education can benefit your child.
Come in and see for yourself at our
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5935 HOHMAN AVENUE | HAMMOND, IN 46320 | 219.932.5666
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Accredited by American Montessori Society Montessori Children’s Schoolhouse welcomes children of any sex, race, religion, color, national and ethnic origin.© 2010 MIDS mcs01222
Photography by Ann Latinovich
18 Making the Grade 2011 A
period. The letter was to include details
about their surroundings, their daily life, their master; display-ing a true understanding of Ro-man life. “In assignments like this one, we create a framework for students so that they are thinking both broadly and deeply in terms of their writing,” says Stroebel.
Student-guided writingMontessori schools in the
Chicago area help kids reach academic excellence by encour-aging students’ interests and pro-viding them with unlimited time and opportunity to explore those interests. This ongoing theme takes a simple assignment, such as “read a book and write a re-port on it” to a new level. Accord-ing to Lisa Kambich, director of schools for Deerfield Montessori Schools and vice-president of the Association of Illinois Montessori Schools, one student recently read and wrote about horses, incorporated illustrations of her own, wrote a fiction story and po-
etry about horses, all as a result of that one assignment. Another group of stu-dents collaborated on their own novel, with one child acting as illustrator, and
others joining the project later to act as editors. So far this group of children has written two or three novels together.
With a tool kit full of grammar struc-ture and the knowledge of different styles and genres they might use to express themselves, children in the Montessori school system can expand that knowledge to encompass their en-tire curriculum driven by what excites each individual child. “Language and learning is really just another facet of a child’s fun and joy,” says Kambich.
Writing is personalIt’s important to educators at the
Chicago Grammar School to recognize what a personal thing writing actually is. “The hardest thing is when an assign-ment is too vague,” says Jackson. “So we like to give them a focus.” A recent assignment asked students to stand facing different directions on Chicago sidewalk. Each student has a different view point of a similar location, and they were asked to write about what they saw. Assignments like this offer a focus, but act as a canvas for personal creativity and the celebration of the written word, to shine through.
Written wordcontinued from page 16
PHOTO COURTESYOF DAVINCI ACADEMY
Montessori Language AcademyWhere Global Education Begins
314 Circle Ave., Forest Park708-771-5030
Hours: 7:30 am - 6 pm (Mon. - Fri.)Call for a classroom tour!
www.MontessoriLanguageAcademy.com
Japanese Language Immersion Montessori Program 3-6 yrs. old Piano in Japanese Available
Music and Art classes included in regular program
American Montessori Society Certified TeachersEmphasis of Academics, Japanese & English Language
Yoko Avramov, M. Ed. - Director
Making the Grade 2011 19A
CITYArchdiocese of Chicago
Catholic SchoolsPreschool thru 12th grade in
Chicago and suburbsFor a full listing of the 255 elementary
and high schools in Cook and Lake counties visit
Schools.ArchChicago.org(312) 534-5250
The Frances Xavier Warde SchoolsOld St. Patrick's, 122 DesPlaines St.
Holy Name, 751 N. State St.(312) 466-0700
www.fxw.org3 yr. PreK –Grade 8, extended care
Immaculate Conception School 1431 N. North Park Ave., Chicago
(312) 944-0304www.icsnorthpark.com
Prek 3 - 8th, extended careCo-teaching, new middle school in 2011
Immaculate Conception7263 W. Talcott Ave. , Chicago
(773) 775-0545www.iccowboys.net
Mrs. Bernadette Felicione, PrincipalGrades PreK-8
Mount Carmel Academy720 W. Belmont, Chicago
(773) 525-8779www.mountcarmelacademy.orgShane Staszcuk, Principal
Grades PreK – 8th
Notre Dame High School for Girls3115 N. Mason Ave., Chicago
(773) 622-1541www.ndhs4girls.org
Dr. Lucine Mastalers, Head of SchoolsDenise Piekarski, Principal
Grades 9 -12, Faith Based, Technology Rich, College Preparatory
Northside Catholic Academy6216 N. Glenwood
(Primary school campus)Grades PreK – 5, extended care
5525 N. Magnolia(Middle school campus)Grades PreK and 6,7,8
(773) 271-4310www.northsidecatholic.org
Our Lady of Grace School 2446 N. Ridgeway Ave., Chicago
(773) 342 – 0170 www.olgchicago.org
Sr. Rita Marie Range, O.P., Principal 3 yr. PreK - Grade 8, before and after school care
Queen of All Saints6230 N. Lemont Ave, Chicago
(773) 736-0567www.qasparish.org
Stephanie M. DiPrima, Principal3 yr. PreK -8th grade
Queen of Angels School4520 N. Western Ave., Chicago
(773) 769-4211 ext. 11www.queenofangelschicago.orgJulia Byrns Kelly, Principal3 yr. PreK - 8, extended care
Resurrection High School7500 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago
(773) 775-6616 ext. 129www.reshs.orgGrades 9 – 12
Celebrating Catholic Schools Week January 30 - February 5, 2011
ST. CLEMENT SCHOOL
20 Making the Grade 2011 A
Sacred Heart School6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago
(773) 262-4446www.shschicago.org
Sr. Susan Maxwell, R.S.C.J. DirectorK - 8, independent, extended care
St. Andrew School1710 W. Addison, Chicago
(773) 248-2500www.saintandrewchicago.com
Jack Percival, PrincipalPreK – 8th
St. Bartholomew School4941 W. Patterson Rd., Chicago
(773) 282-9373www.stbartschool.net
Martin Graham-McHugh, PrincipalPreK-8th
St. Benedict Schools3920 N. Leavitt, Chicago
(773) 539-0066 www.sbes.stbenedict.com
Doreen Morand, PK and ES Admissions Director
Rachel Waldron, Preschool DirectorKevin Walsh, High School
Admissions DirectorPreK – 12th Grade
St. Clement School2524 N. Orchard, Chicago
(773) 348-8212www.stclementschool.orgAnne Rog, PrincipalPreK – 8, extended care
St. Constance 5841 W. Strong St., Chicago
(773) 283-2311www.stconstance.org
Eva Panczyk, PrincipalPreK – 8th, extended care
St. Cornelius School5252 N. Long Ave., Chicago
(773) 283-2192www.stcornelius.org
Mrs. Margaret M. Campbell, Principal3 yr. PreK - 8th Grade; before and after school care
St. Edward4343 W. Sunnyside, Chicago
(773) 736-9133www.stedwardschool.com
3 yr. PreK – 8th
St. Ferdinand3131 N. Mason, Chicago,
(773) 622-3022www.saintferdinand.org/school
Dr. Lucine Mastalerez, Principal3 yr. PreK - 8th grade
St Gabriel Catholic School 607 W. 45th St., Chicago
(773) 268-6636www.saintgabes.com
PreK-Grade 8, extended care
St. Genevieve Catholic School4854 W. Montana, Chicago
(773) 237-7131www.stgenevieveschool.com Marie Neis, Principal
PreK-8th grade
St. Hilary Elementary School 5614 N. Fairfield, Chicago
(773) 561-5885www.sthilarychicago.org
Mr. Jerome R. Molitor, PrincipalPreK-8th, extended care
St. Josaphat School2245 N. Southport, Chicago
(773) 549-0909www.stjosaphat.com
Ms. Colleen Cannon, PrincipalPreK - 8, extended care
St. Mary of the Woods7033 N. Moselle Ave, Chicago
(773) 763-7577www.smowschool.org
PreK-8th grade
St. Robert Bellarmine School6036 W. Eastwood, Chicago
(773) 725-5133 www.srb-chicago.org
Mrs. Carrie Mijal, Principal3 yr. PreK - 8th
St. Viator4140 W. Addison St., Chicago
(773) 545-2173www.stviatorchicago.org
Kathleen Kowalski, Principal3 yr. PreK - 8th
NORTHOur Lady Of Perpetual Help School
(OLPH)1123 Church St., Glenview
(847) 724-6990www.olph-il.org
Amy Mills, PrincipalPreK – 8th Grade
Pope John XXIII School1120 Washington St., Evanston
(847) 475-5678www.popejohn23.org
Rosalie Musiala, Principal3 yr. PreK – 8th grade, before and after school care
St. Joan of Arc School9245 N. Lawndale Ave., Evanston
(847) 679-0660www.saintjoanofarc.netGail Hulse, Principal
3 yr. PreK – Grade 8
Celebrating Catholic Schools Week January 30 - February 5, 2011
As a parent, you’re the most important influence on your child’s future. But what about the other people in his or her life?
At a Catholic school, your child will receive an outstanding academic foundation from people who share your values. Nationally, Catholic school students outperform others on tests for math, reading and science.
They also lead in graduation rates, and they’re the most likely to go on to college.Catholic school students also receive a solid moral and spiritual foundation.
After all, Catholic schools have always believed Christian teachings belong in school.To learn how you can make a Catholic school your choice for education, please call or visit us today.
FENWICK HIGH SCHOOL
Making the Grade 2011 21A
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
760 E. Westleigh Rd., Lake Forest(847) 234-4300 x213
www.woodlandsacademy.orgGerald Grossman, Head of School
Grades 9-12
NORTHWESTNorthridge Preparatory School
8320 Ballard Rd., Niles (847) 375-0600
www.NorthridgePrep.org Richard Myer, Headmaster
Grades 6 – 12
The Willows Academy 1012 Thacker St., Des Plaines
(847) 824-6900 www.willowsacademy.org
Mary J. Keenley, Head of School Grades 6 through 12, all girls
SOUTHCardinal Joseph Bernardin
Catholic School9250 W. 167th St., Orland Hills
(708) 403-6525www.cardinaljbschool.com
Ms. Mary Iannucilli, PrincipalPreK - 8th Grade
Queen of Peace High School 7659 S. Linder Ave., Burbank
(708) 458-7600www.queenofpeacehs.org
Grades 9-12, girls
St. Benedict School2324 New St., Blue Island
(708) 385-2016www.stbenbi.org
Susan Rys, Principal PreK- Grade 8
St. Bernadette Catholic Academy9311 S. Francisco Ave., Evergreen Park
(708) 422-6429www.sbschool.us
Mrs. Arlene Baumann, Principal PreK – 8th Grade
WESTAscension School
601 Van Buren, Oak Park(708) 386-7282
www.Ascension-School.comMaryJo Burns, Principal
PreK – Grade 8
Fenwick High School 505 W. Washington Blvd., Oak Park
(708) 386-0127 www.fenwickfriars.com
Grades 9-12 Mr. Richard Borsch and Mr. Peter Groom,
Co-Principals
Guerin College Preparatory8001 W. Belmont, River Grove
(708) 453-6233guerinprep.org
Mrs. Elizabeth Brown, PrincipalGrades 9-12, coed
Marmion Academy1000 Butterfield Rd., Aurora
(630) 897-6936www.marmion.org
John Milroy, HeadmasterGrades 9 – 12
Rosary High School901 N. Edgelawn Dr., Aurora
(630) 896-0831www.rosaryhs.com
Sr. Patricia Burke, O.P., PrincipalGrades 9-12, girls
St. Giles School1034 Linden Ave., Oak Park
(708) 383-6279www.stgilesschool.org
Mrs. Susan Poetzel, Principal
St. Irene Catholic School3 S. 601 Warren Ave., Warrenville
(630) 393-9303www.st-ireneschool.org
Maureen White, PrincipalPreK - 8th Grade
St. Luke Parish School519 Ashland Ave.,
River Forest(708) 366-8587
www.school-stlukeparish.orgBarbara Rasinski, Principal
PreK – Grade 8
St. Matthew School 1555 Glen Ellyn Rd., Suite 2
Glendale Heights(630) 858-3112
www.stmatthewlancers.orgMrs. Neoma Mastruzzo, Principal
PreK - 8
St. Odilo School6617 W. 23rd St., Berwyn
(708) 484-0755www.saintodilo.org
Mr. William Donegan, Principal3 yr. PreK – 8, extended care
Trinity High School7574 W. Division St.,
River Forest(708) 771-8383www.trinityhs.org
Antonia C. Bouillette, Principal Grades 9 – 12, girls
Celebrating Catholic Schools Week January 30 - February 5, 2011
22 Making the Grade 2011 A
www.LyceeChicago.org
DUAL FRENCH-ENGLISH EDUCATION:
French National Curriculum and Baccalaureate
American Studies Program
Accredited by the ISACS and by
the French Ministry of Education
Before and after-school programs with
sports, group/individual activities and studying
613 W. Bittersweet Place, Chicago, IL 60613 773 665 0066 · [email protected]
PRE-K (3 YEAR-OLD PROGRAM)
THROUGH 12TH GRADE
MULTICULTURAL:
OVER 40 NATIONALITIES
NEW IB program — accepting
applications for 9th grade
Making the Grade 2011 23A
PHOTO COURTESY OF THEBRITISH SCHOOL OF CHICAGO
British School stu-dents enjoy a trip to the Big Apple.
By TRICIA DESPRES
It’s a picture etched in many of our collective memories. With duffle bag in hand and possibly a tear in our
eye, we step onto the bus to embark on our first class trip. Filled with a mix of nervousness and excitement, we wave goodbye not only to family and friends, but to a little piece of our childhood years.
This first trip away from home has become one of those “coming of age” events that can be crucial to a middle school student’s future. In fact, edu-cators firmly believe these trips have much to offer students, both academi-cally and socially.
“These kinds of opportunities really help to expand the classroom experi-ence,” explains Bruce Rudi, Principal of St. Peter Lutheran School in Arlington Heights. “Going outside the classroom makes so many things come to life for our students.”
Ranging from a few days to a week or more, these class trips have be-come a tradition at many Chicago area schools. For example, Chiaravalle Mon-tessori School students regularly travel throughout the Midwest in an effort to expand their teachings beyond the classroom.
“Our trip to Michigan offers students a chance to stay at a lodge on an acre-age, cook their own meals, engage in outdoor education activities, journal, spend time in nature, and participate in team-building a activities,” says Beth Caldwell of Chiaravalle Montes-sori School in Evanston. “We also join students at two other area Montessori Middle Schools to Nature’s Classsroom, an environmental education center lo-cated in Wisconsin.”
Fox River Country Day School sev-enth graders regularly travel to Wash-ington DC, where students can visit a multitude of museums and gain a bet-
ter appreciation for the roots and histo-ry of our country. Then, in eighth grade, they travel even further.
“We take the eighth graders to Cos-ta Rica in what we like to call a capstone trip,” remarks FRCDS Head of School Karen Morse. “It’s an experience that re-ally pulls together everything they have accomplished here at school through-out the years.”
The British School of Chicago even offers student opportunities to travel in-ternationally, including trips to France, Canada, Coast Rica and even a trip to Russia planned for next year! “Gener-ally our itineraries are so action packed when we go on trips there isn’t much free time,” explains Rebecca Palmet, a member of the British School of Chica-go’s leadership team. “The balance of freedom and supervision is dependent on age group and location and will vary from group to group.”
Students hit the road
continued on page 25
24 Making the Grade 2011 A
PHOTO COURTESYOF THE BRITISH
SCHOOLOF CHICAGO
Photo courtesy of Chenevert Photography, Inc.
Parent/Child · Toddler · Early Childhood 3-6 · Elementary · Middle School
Chiaravalle Montessori School425 Dempster, Evanston, IL (847) 864-2190 www.chiaravalle.org
How does a ladybug fly? Why does a ladybughave spots? Are all ladybugs girls?Visit Chiaravalle Montessori School — a place whereconfident, self-directed learners ask big questions andexplore ideas that fascinate them.
Experience the wonder of our Montessori program in action.Observe a classroom, talk with educators and see ourhistoric Daniel Burnham building. We welcome your call.
Discover Chiaravalle Montessori SchoolWhere curiosity sparks joy in learning
Discover ChiaravalleWhere curiosity sparks joy in learning
Our typical school day features both core and creative classes, from math to drama; world language to chorus. Students experience hands-on labs in science and then hands-on projects in art class. A leader in teaching academically gifted and creatively talented children for over 17 years, SAA is a refreshing approach to learning with the depth your child has been craving.
1825 Miner Street Des Plaines, IL 60016 847-827-7880 www.scienceandartsacademy.org
OPEN HOUSE February 5, 2011 9:00-12:00
GIFTED EDUCATION PRE-SCHOOL THROUGH 8TH GRADE
Making the Grade 2011 25A
Of course, some of the most fulfilling trips can occur relatively close to home. St. Peter Lutheran School stu-dents in Chicago regularly volunteer in Chicago, where they can join together with their families and volunteer in the inner city. “Working alongside other families definitely builds commu-nity within the school,” says Rudi. “Having the chance to serve together in a com-mon cause alongside one another helps our students witness something bigger than themselves.”
No matter the scope of the trip, it does come at a cost. Some schools, such as Chiaravalle Montessori School, build it into the tu-ition fees for the year. Others rely on fundraising activities in order to raise money.
“Everyone has to afford to go or we won’t go,” says Doug Markworth, Principal of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Chicago. “Whether it’s going to Millennium Park to go ice skating or down to St. Louis to see the sites, these are the kinds of trips that are going to build these students up in terms of their self esteem and help them ultimately get adjusted to high school.”
Of course, dealing with the intricacies that come with supervising a large number of middle school students away from home for the first time weighs heavily on the minds of trip organizers. For example, both male and fe-male teachers must be on hand during the trip. Some schools set up boy’s floors and girls floors when staying at hotels. “There are lots of rules,” explains Chiaravalle’s Caldwell. “They realize that the consequences of break-ing the rules would be to go home.”
Travelcontinued from page 23
continued on page 26
26 Making the Grade 2011 A
Undoubtedly, proper supervision is key to any successful class trip. “While we have had parents chap-erone in the past, it is im-perative that we have our faculty members there since this trip is truly part of the overall curriculum,” says FRCDS’s Morse. “They aren’t there just to babysit – but are really there to guide the kids through the trip. These are young children and we are all mindful of their safety.”
“Parents are involved and always welcome on trips in the lower school, but for our middle to high school stu-dents we use our teaching staff rather than parents, be-cause it allows the students to develop social skills, which along with educa-tion is the aim for a lot of the trips,” adds Palmet of British School. “It’s great when you
see students supporting and working together as they be-come more confident in un-familiar surroundings.”
Never underestimate the power that “being un-plugged” for a few days can make on these middle school students. Instead of spending their evenings surfing the internet, FRCDS students spend their eve-nings of class trips writing in their journals and reflecting on the day they had and the days to come.
And long after these trips are over, memories and the lessons learned live on.
“Kids go off and graduate, but they always seem to look back on the times they spent away as their most important times during their growing years,” says Caldwell. “It’s worth every moment.”
Travelcontinued from page 25
Getting to the Heart of What Really Matters
6250 North Sher idan Road, Chicago, I l l inois 60660
www.shschicago.org
A curious mind and an open heart Personal responsibility and a sense of integrityThe willingness to serve and lead
At Sacred Heart, we teach what’s important: the skills and the values needed to succeed in the world.
We help students open their minds—and their hearts.
We offer small classes, exceptional faculty, and a rigorous curriculum. We provide programs that promote social awareness and community service.
Find out why Sacred Heart is ranked among the top schools in Chicago. Attend an Admissions Coffee.
What matters to you—matters to Sacred Heart.
ADMISSIONS COFFEES:
Wednesday, Jan 12, Feb 9, Apr 13 & May 119:30 – 11:00 am
Reservations & Information: 773.681.8418
An independent Catholic school serving children of all faiths
Single gender classrooms on a coed campus
Kindergarten through 8th grade SUMMER PROGRAMSAT PARKER
Register Online:
fwparker.org/summers
Making the Grade 2011 27A
Ms. Colleen Cannon, Principal 2245 North Southport Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60614
773-549-0909 phone 773-549-3127 faxwww.stjosaphat.net
Current Facilities Renovation Supports More Learning
Students Experience More
Differentiation of Instruction
Faculty Cares More
Graduates Achieve More
More
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Call for registration information!
28 Making the Grade 2011 A
There Are More Than 20,000 Public High Schools in the Nation.
The Wall Street Journal Ranked the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® (IMSA) Among the Top Ten.
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) offers a tuition-free, advanced college preparatory program (grades 10-12) and summer camps for youth in grades 3-9.
Come to IMSA Preview Day Sunday January 30, 2011 – 10:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 1500 Sullivan Road Aurora, IL 60506-1000
Visit our website at www.imsa.edu IMSA’s College Prep Program (800) 500-4672 Registration for Summer Programs for Youth begins in late February 2011 (630) 907-5950
Money can’t buy you a world-class IMSA education. Your love of math and science can!
Making the Grade 2011 29A
By PATTY KEYURANGGUL
You’ve been through the gauntlet -- from potty training to summer camps, sippy cups to sleepovers.
With the never-ending work of contem-plating ages and stages, it’s hard to be-lieve that your child has reached high school. That sweet child who still seems so young is now preparing for college and the real world. Being prepared as a parent used to mean carrying snacks and tissue in your purse at all times. Who will help you equip them now?
Many high schools recognize the need for preparing students for college and the work world. By developing mentoring relationships, performing career assessments and providing op-portunities to practice, high schools are preparing students for a competitive world.
Queen of Peace High School in Bur-bank hosts Career Day each spring where students can attend panels on medical fields, science, engineering, law or health care and hear from sev-eral people in each field. They also host a Career Fair where students have the opportunity to talk one on one with over 70 people from different fields in-cluding several alumni. One alumnus came for career day and met a senior who was interested in becoming a di-etician. Through that relationship, that student will now have the opportunity to shadow a dietician at a hospital for a day.
Queen of Peace also utilizes an on-line program called Career Cruising. Counselors go into classrooms each year and do a lesson or perform an interest inventory where students can
answer questions about themselves. Several possible careers are matched with each student. Counselors also assist students by examining popular careers and presenting information about the kind of education required, how much money can one expect to earn and the job outlook in that par-ticular field.
These programs are a great benefit to high school students according to Sharon Geinosky, Director of Counsel-ing at Queen of Peace. Students are, “exposed to many different career pos-sibilities and they begin to understand the path needed to get there.” As stu-dents learn how to research a career and what questions should be asked, they are also taught that it’s okay if they don’t know what they want to do right
High school students preparingfor the future
PHOTO COURTESY OFFENWICK HIGH SCHOOL
Fenwick students have the opportu-nity to work with alumni in their areas of interest.
continued on page 30
30 Making the Grade 2011 A
now. Geinosky states, “the most popular college ma-jor is ‘undecided’. But (stu-dents) do get how important a college education is.”
At Latin School of Chi-cago, upper level students have the opportunity to participate in Project Week. Students take a one-week break from classes to pursue an area of interest such as travel, outdoor education or service projects. “Careers” is one of those projects, giving students a unique hands-on opportunity to explore ca-reers. Students work for 30 hours without pay, cooper-ating with professionals such as architects, city and gov-ernment leaders, doctors, journalists, realtors, judges, lawyers, television and radio personalities, teachers and stockbrokers.
For students who like room for more creativity, Latin School has a very ac-tive independent studies program and an opportunity for seniors called the Cap-stone Initiative which allows students to build their own curriculum around a focused field.
In their junior year, stu-dents at Latin School are required to put together a re-sume and write a statement of intent. “We hope to pro-vide our students with gen-eral life skills that will help them beyond college,” says Evelyne Giradet, Associate Director of Communications at Latin School. Their goal is to help students develop skills ranging from, “critical thinking and organizational skills to helping them devel-op their own passions and interests in the world around them and the tools to pursue them.”
Chicago’s Resurrection College Preparatory High School offers a Practicum Program, a job-shadowing
program that gives students an opportunity to work with mentors in a professional setting to explore career possibilities and skills. This is done over the course of a semester with a classroom component that teaches how personal interests, skills and abilities relate to career choices and the selection of colleges.
Last year over 100 stu-dents participated in areas such as architecture, athletic training, banking, chiroprac-tic care, engineering, social work and veterinary medi-cine. Students practice con-ducting interviews, asking questions, writing thank you notes, business manners and how to highlight their skills. They hear from speakers, at-tend field trips, and write re-flection papers. “One of the most important things that a student may learn is that she is NOT interested in a career that she previously thought she was interested in,” says Laura Cuniff. “This is such a valuable lesson before in-vesting time and money into college.”
Fenwick High School in Oak Park, another college preparatory school, takes a different approach. While there isn’t a formal program for career preparation, per-sonal involvement from ex-perienced staff is extensive. Paired with a strong and involved alumni network, Fenwick equips students for success in college and beyond. Counselors work with students to get to know them over the course of their full four years. Students who have interests in particular majors can contact their counselor who will assist in connecting students with an alumnus in that field. Many students at Fenwick do their own research and seek sup-port independently. “One of the benefits of a Dominican education is that we teach students how to reflect on their lives,” says Laura Do-
High schoolcontinued from page 30
Our Values Are for Life! The Christian Educational Community of Queen of All Saints School is dedicated to
promoting the spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical development
of the young child-learner.
Religious Education Language Arts Mathematics Science Social Studies
Art & Music Programs Physical Education Computer Literacy
Spanish Language Instruction, Junior High Family Life & AIDS Curricula
Academic Resource Extended Day Program
3 Year old & Junior Kindergarten Early Childhood
Half-Day and Full Day Kindergarten Library & Media Center Science Lab
Student Council Yearbook School Play Children’s Handbell Chorus & Liturgical Choir
Band 8th Grade Dance Class Altar Server Program Scouting
Field Trips Competitive & Intramural Athletics Cheerleading Great Books Program
After School Clubs Cultural Arts Events Carnival
Faith Partner Progam Grade Level Masses
6230 N. Lemont Ave.Chicago, IL 60646
773-736-0567
Making the Grade 2011 31A
cherty, College Counselor. As a result, students are able to navigate their own paths and interests, while counselors at Fenwick are ready and available to give personal attention and fill any gaps.
Aurora’s Marmion Academy has a fully developed curriculum based lead-ership program called The Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) program. Classes are 45 minutes long and meet twice a week as part of their college prep curriculum. LEAD is a four year comprehensive program which stresses personal leadership skills for younger students and progresses to organizational development for older students.
Vince Bellafiore, LEAD Program Di-rector states that LEAD is a “very fluid, consistently growing and changing program.” The philosophy of this pro-gram is “teen led, with adult direc-tion.” This program gives students the opportunity to be directly involved in the educational process. At the end of their sophomore year, students plan and implement a two-day leadership camp for middle school students. Ju-niors and seniors are taught through an in-house mentoring program. Se-niors also teach leadership seminars
to adults. As students study leadership theory, they then have the chance to engage in the practical application of those theories.
For students with com-plex learning disabilities, Brehm Preparatory School offers a program referred to as OPTIONS- Optimizing Potential Through Individu-alized, On-going Nurtured Successes. This comprehen-sive transitional program is for students who have graduated from high school, earned their GED, or who have chosen to defer graduation in or-der to participate in this program.
The core curriculum is designed to introduce students to a wide range of skills. Through OPTIONS, students de-velop academically, socially and emo-tionally which enables them to later live independently. During their time in this program, students are encouraged to participate in community-based intern-ships giving them real work experienc-es. A vocational counselor is on hand to assist students in identifying inter-ests as well as practical matters such as meeting supervisors and arranging
work schedules. “Brehm and OPTIONS helped put me on my path to success,” says Natalie Pereless a Brehm and Op-tions alum. “I learned how to deal with my disability as well as how to be an ad-vocate for myself in seeking any help I needed in school or in life. Brehm and OPTIONS helped me to stand on my own two feet and taught me skills that I will use for the rest of my life.”
While any transition can be hard, the ones from high school to college and college to the working world are distinctly different in that they involve a new level of independence. Fortunate-ly, while each school may differ in ap-proach, they all share a common goal - to support and equip students for life.
PHOTOCOURTESYOF BREHM
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Fenwick High School
Coeducational Dominican Catholic College Preparatory High School
Fenwick Class of 2010 earned more than $25 million in college scholarships
100% college acceptance
35 Clubs/Activities 30 Varsity Sports
Fenwick High School 505 W Washington Blvd
Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-0127
www.fenwickfriars.com
Entrance Exam January 8, 2011 8:00 am - Noon
Entrance Exam Information: The cost is $25. Checks are acceptable.
You do not need to register beforehand.
Please bring two #2 pencils.
Questions? Call Cathy Kaszuba at 708-386-0127 ext. 109.
*You must take the Entrance Exam at Fenwick to be considered for admittance
F O U R HT
C
PT
R E S B YE R I A NH U R C H
A L I G H T I N T H E C I T Y
FOURTH CHURCH DAY SCHOOLRuth L. Hornaday, Director
> A half-day Nursery School
program serving 3- and
4-year-olds and their
families since 1968.
> A Twos-and-Parents
program with parent
participation serving
2-year-olds and their
families since 1992.
> NAEYC Accredited
126 E. Chestnut Street
Chicago, IL 60611.2094
(312) 787-4570
www.fourthchurch.org
32 Making the Grade 2011 A
Serving Pre-K - Eight grade- Student to teacher ration 12:1
- Foreign Language beginning in Pre-k
- Computer instruction in all grades
- After school academic enrich-ment, sports and scouting
- Weekly mass, sacramental preparation, and service projects
- Acceptance to top high schools
- Bus service available
For more information, contact the Director of Admissions at 773-348-8212, ext. 2232524 North Orchard St. - Chicago, IL 60614 - www.stclementschool.org
8th Grade Entrance Exam Saturday, January 8th, 2011
Test begins at 8AM. Please bring two #2 pencils and your $25 test fee.Students must test at Trinity on January 8 to be eligible for scholarships.
Join us for a “Summer of Significance...2011 Summer Camp”
for girls age 5-14 (information available in February)
7574 West Division, River Forest, IL 708.453.9374 www.trinityhs.org
100% College AcceptanceThe 130 young women in the class of 2010 received over $10.1 million
in academic college scholarships.
• International Baccalaureate• Collegiate-style Block Schedule • Dominican University Collaboration• Single-Gender
• Service• Fine-Arts• Athletics• Transportation
Making the Grade 2011 33A
By PENNY MURAD
It has become increasingly popular in our disconnected society to en-courage service learning projects
in school settings. This trend aids stu-dents by developing leadership skills; by helping to develop empathy, and a sense of connectedness with the world at large; and by helping to give back to the community.
At Trinity High School in River Forest, there is a service requirement within the curriculum, as well as in the extra-curricular clubs and activities. The em-phasis is on direct connections—instead of stocking shelves at a food pantry, students are encouraged to work with senior citizens by playing games with them or reading together.
A requirement of all extracurricular clubs and activities at Trinity is that each group needs to plan and carry out one direct service activity. In Youth End-ing Hunger, the students organize a Healthy Eating Festival, helping to raise awareness of healthy food choices. A service fund helps to defray the cost of
the service activities, and the students also fund raise for their selected chari-ties.
Susie Bedell, Director of Student Affairs, says that there is a 90% partici-pation rate in the extracurricular activi-ties, and it is most gratifying to see the benefits to the students, in terms of increased compassion for the world at large, and, often, choice of a career de-voted to helping others.
In 1989, First Lady of Chicago, Mag-gie Daly and Father Jack Wall, pastor of Old St. Pat’s, created Frances Xavier Warde School, committed to providing students with “an academically excel-lent education along with a foundation to guide them to become hard working individuals armed with a strong moral compass.” The school has developed service projects for each grade, tied to a topic within the curriculum. For example, in fourth grade, the children visit a homeless shelter, and make each resident’s bed, with new blankets and pillows, leaving a prayer card on the pil-low. During eighth grade graduation, awards are presented to those students
who have accumulated the most hours of community service. Each student speaks movingly of their most reward-ing experiences during their projects.
Teachers whose students participat-ed in extra curricular service learning note that the students display enhanced problem solving skills, heightened abil-ity to work in teams, as well as organiza-tional and planning abilities.
Southwest Chicago Christian Schools also ties their service learning to their curriculum. Among the many service activities, students collect food and personal items for Roseland Chris-tian Ministries, toys for Harvey House, and pop tops for Ronald McDonald House. Students also help out “at the Chicago Food Depository, Food for the Hungry or making and taking lunch to homeless residents of the city of Chi-cago.” For those students who prefer earthkeeping activities, they can main-tain paths in Cook County Forest pre-serves, as well as working at the Lake Katherine Nature Preserve. Students can also do peer tutoring or run church
Extracurricular service learning
PHOTO COURTESYOF TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL
Trinity High School has a service re-quirement as part of the curriculum, in addition to extra-curricular opportu-nities.
continued on page 34
34 Making the Grade 2011 A
programs. “They also have the oppor-tunity to use their Spanish when they serve orphanages in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic.”
Baker Demonstration School’s vision is: “Love to Learn, Cherish the Journey, Serve The World.” In addition to the many acts of kindness demonstrated by the students, students can “serve the
world in a broad-er sense.” From the early child-hood classes who learn about hunger and h o m e l e s s n e s s by “collecting canned goods and gently used outerwear for donation to local service organi-zations,” to the middle school groups who or-ganize “an in school hot dog sale to benefit
multiple sclerosis,” the opportunities to learn and serve are abundant. Baker is proud that these projects are “hands-on and modeled to encourage students to continue to want to make a difference with their actions and their lives.”
At Elgin Academy, students in grades 9-12 have an amazing oppor-tunity. “Since 2006, Elgin Academy’s Upper School teachers Kathy Rusniak and Sharon Williams have led a group of students on a service trip to an or-
phanage in the Dominican Republic.” There are forty children at the orphan-age, ranging in age from 16 months to 18 years. The students worked with the children at both the orphanage and the local schools, doing maintenance and construction projects, as well as orga-nizing sports and recreational activi-ties. Parents from Elgin Academy also helped by working with local health care providers “to take medical and dental care to nearby impoverished communities as well.”
Elgin Academy students also partici-pate in fundraisers for charity, such as Autism Now; Make a Wish: and Ameri-can Red Cross. The lower grades can participate by collecting warm clothing for families at the local homeless shel-ter, volunteering at the local Animal Shelter, and raising money for the “Mit-ten Tree” to buy holiday gifts for those in need.
From the perspective of this writer and mother, a dedication to service has changed my (now adult) children’s lives. “When you serve someone dinner, and then pass them on the street several days later, you realize that we are all the same,” my daughter told me.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTHWEST CHICAGO CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
Some students collect food as part of the their service activities.
Servicecontinued from page 33
A 21st Century Curriculum. An Eternal Perspective. CHRISTIAN HERITAGE ACADEMY
CHICAGO CAMPUSTour Day
Sat. Jan. 22, 9AM-NOON
Wed. Feb 23, 9-11 AM
Visit us!
NORTHFIELD CAMPUSTour Day
Feb 15, 9-11 AM
Info NightsTues. Jan 25, 7:00-8:30 PM
Mon. Mar 14, 7:00-8:30 PM
Register for Tour Day or Info Night:
847 446-5252 [email protected]
Preschool-12th GradeNorthfield Chicago
Christ-centered
www.christianheritage.org
Spring Open HouseThursday, March 24, 2011
6:30pm to 8:30pmCall 773.775.6616 Ext 129
or visit our website atwww.reshs.orgfor more information.
7500 W. Talcott Ave, Chicago 60631
Entrance ExamSaturday, Jan 8, 2011
7:45am to 12:30pm pre-registration not required
Shadow Days7th & 8th grade girls are
welcome to shadow at Res.
Single Gender I Block Scheduling I Practicum Program I 26 Athletic Teams100% College Acceptance I Catholic Christian Environment
Making the Grade 2011 35A
Now accepting applications for the 2011-2012 School YearFourth-Eighth Grade Holy Name Campus Please Join Us for Information Night Wednesday, March 16th, 2011
Visit www.fxw.org for more details.
The FRANCES XAVIER WARDE SCHOOL intellectually challenges students in a cooperative learning environment that fosters a positive self-image and encourages independent thinking. Our rigorous curriculum enables students to grow, clarify their values, and develop decision-making skills.
In addition to a strong academic program, we offer art, computer, music, physical education and Spanish classes.
Located in downtown Chicago, FXW is a Catholic School that honors multi-faith values.
CAMPUS LOCATIONS 120 S. Des Plaines Street (preschool – third grade) 751 N. State Street (fourth – eighth grade)
www.fxw.org 312.466.0700
EDUCATION IS A
DISCOVERY OF
UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES
A distinctive school in the Catholic Tradition for girls in grades 6 through 12, The Willows Academy offers challenging academics coupled with ample opportunities for
participation in athletics, the arts, and community involvement.
Discover who YOU are meant to be at THE WILLOWS ACADEMY
1012 Thacker Street - Des Plaines, IL www.willowsacademy.org - 847.824.6900
Spring Open House Sunday, March 13
12 to 3 pm
36 Making the Grade 2011 A
S C H O O L of C H I C AG O
LATIN
Latin welcomes independent minds
Want to know more? Call us!(312) 582-6060 WWW.LATINSCHOOL.ORG
Three divisions, one warm, welcoming community
Lower school: Junior kindergarten–4th grade
Middle school: 5th–8th grades
High school: 9th–12th grades
Challenging college-preparatory curriculum
In-depth opportunities in arts, athletics and community service
More than $2.8 million in need-based financial aid awarded annually
It’s a place kids love to be
JUF believes Jewish early childhood education is so important, we’ll help pay the tuition of the first child in each family to enroll in a participating Jewish
preschool or daycare – regardless of family income.
For more information about eligibility, contact your Jewish early childhood center, visit juf.org/rightstart or call (312) 357-4513.
juf right start is a Joyfully Jewish program made possible by grants from the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, the Steven B. Nasatir New Directions Fund, and the Lewis and Alice F. Schimberg Special Purpose Fund.
jufA gift to your family from Chicago’s Jewish community
You invest a lot in your baby. And so does JUF.
$500 to $1,000 toward your child’s tuition
Making the Grade 2011 37A
By PATTI MINGLIN
At the end of this school year, Peter Mikulak will be retiring after 50 years of
teaching at Fox River Country Day School (formerly known as Chicago Junior School) in Elgin. What makes this milestone even more celebratory is that Mr. Miku-lak has not only been a teacher of FRCD, but he is also a graduate. “I never left the school,” says Miku-lak. “I took my first job two weeks after graduation, working through high school vacations, weekends and summer. After high school graduation, I moved to campus and took on jobs as a janitor, bus driver and swimming teacher while attending college. I became a coach while still in college and became a math teacher af-ter I graduated.”
Mikulak, who received the “Ulti-mate Lifer” award and had the school’s Alumni Room dedicated in his honor last year, is one of many Chicago area educators that have chosen to fulfill their teaching destinies at the schools
in which they once roamed the halls as students. “I feel so fortunate to be teaching the subject that I love at my alma mater,” says Denise Lenihan, so-
Students returning
as teachers
continued on page 38
PHOTO COURTESY OF BERNARD ZELL ANSHE
EMET DAY SCHOOL
Mitchell Darr and class.
Chicago Grammar School …experience the richness of a classical curriculum.
Follow us on Facebook
Opening 6th Grade Fall 2011
Physics can be fun!
Congratulations to our students! On
the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2010, 100% of the 3rd and 4th Grades scored 90% or higher in
Reading, English or Math.
900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610 312-944-5600 www.chicagogrammar.org
CGS is awarding two (2) merit $13,000 scholarships to new incoming 4th and 6th Graders. Contact us for more details.
38 Making the Grade 2011 A
cial studies teacher at Resur-rection College Prep High School in Chicago. “In a way, it feels like I’m giving some-thing back to the school that helped to shape the woman I am today.” Lenihan is one of four former students of Resurrection College Prep that have decided to return as faculty members. Adds one of Lenihan’s Resurrec-tion colleagues Mary Kaye (Love) Ulczak, who is now one of the school’s English teachers, “It truly felt is if I had ‘come home’ because my experiences at Resurrec-tion are what prompted me to pursue a career in teach-ing in the first place.”
Ulczak isn’t alone in cit-ing the influence of her own teachers as a reason for choosing a career in educa-tion as well as returning to her alma mater. “The teachers I had at St. Clement are the reason I became a teacher in the first place,” says Jennifer Zachara, math teacher at St. Clement School in Chicago.
“They were so caring and in-terested in my learning that I hoped to someday have as positive an effect on children as they had on me.” That type of positive effect is being seen throughout numerous Chicagoland schools includ-ing Chiaravalle Montessori School in Evanston where teacher and former student Caitlin (Noone) Hibdon credits her own experience as a student as a reason for her becoming an effective teacher of toddlers. “I was stubborn, but [my teacher] knew when to encourage me to ‘do it myself’ and when to cheer me on because ‘I could do it’,” says Hibdon. “Even now, that helps me work with determined kids.”
Teacher Natalie Lacocque agrees. “As a 3 ½ year old, I remember feeling a sense of great pride and accom-plishment in everything Maria Fermi taught us,” says Lacocque who is currently a teacher at The Language and Music School in Oak Park. “Coming back to The Language and Music School was really inspiring for me because I wanted to learn
Alumnicontinued from page 37
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SACRED HEART SCHOOLS
Kristin Nauman
Embracing the community with faith, tradition, and education for 130 years
A Super School offering a First Class Education!
ST. GABRIEL SCHOOL4500 S. Wallace Street | Chicago, IL 60609
773.268.6636 | www.saintgabes.com
Winning Tradition... “First Class” Catholic Education...Faith First
847-382-3421 | 1410 S. Barrington Rd., Barrington
Visit our website at www.creativelearningmontessori.org for
Take a Look at What Education can be...• Small class size• Small school environment• Individualized learning
programs• Character education• Low teacher/student ratio• Art, Music, P.E.,
Spanish & French• Before/After School Programs
information on: school philosophy, tuition rates, staff biographies, sum
mer, program
s for other ages, map and directions, Montessori overview, field trips,
befo
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Affiliated with Creative Care Children’s Center - providing nurturing full day
programs for children infancy through preschool
Making the Grade 2011 39A
how Maria was able to ra-diate such positive energy upon her students. I wanted to learn how to be as much of a positive influence on people as she was.”
Teachers feel that having walked the same halls, stud-ied in the same classrooms and even possibly had the same teachers, allows them to better connect with and inspire the students of to-day. “The academic and spiritual values I received as an Our Lady of Perpet-ual Help student continue to shape the person I am today,” says Margaret Cui-sinier, fifth grade teacher at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Glenview. “I am proud to carry on the thriving mis-sion of OLPH School.” Our Lady of Perpetual Help, along with schools such as Medinah Christian School, Trinity Christian College, all have multiple alumni as part of their current faculty and staff. “I can’t say that I had a favorite teacher, as all of them had unique gifts that they brought into my life and have helped shape me to who I am today,” says Julie Fernandez, Spanish teacher at OLPH. “But, I can say that I have enjoyed working alongside them and have even more respect for them, as now I am in their shoes.” It’s coming “back to my old stomping grounds to teach,” says Mitchell Daar, an eighth-grade advisor, coach and math teacher at Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School in Chicago.
But, what is it like to return to the stomping grounds as an adult? “As a student, some of my favor-ite memories of school were mornings in advisory, class trips, and singing our school song in French,” says PE teacher Kristin Nauman who is one of four current teach-ers of Sacred Heart Schools in Chicago that are also for-mer students. “We still do all
continued on page 40
40 Making the Grade 2011 A
of these things, and I am now experi-encing it from the other side. I have at-tended many of the class trips -- now as a chaperone -- and have been given a whole new appreciation for what type of planning these trips take and what crazy stunts pre-teens and early teens can pull! I also now realize how won-derful tradition is.” Adds Sacred Heart Schools kindergarten teacher Carolyn
Hall, “As a teacher, I continue to love the same traditions, but they hold new meaning for me as an adult. Hearing the students sing the traditional feast songs in the newly renovated chapel brings back a swell of memories that makes my heart sing.”
What else makes the minds of these teachers swell with memories? When they can share their own experiences as a student with the kids in their class-room. “When the owner and my former teacher Sue Moustakas visits my class
now, we love to tell the kids how she used to be my teacher and oh how I cried! The kids get such a kick out of hearing that,” says Casey Higgins Cannatello, teacher at Sandbox Learning Center-Orland Park in Homer Glen. “They ask her every time they see her to tell them the story about Mrs. Casey.”
While certain things have changed, such as advance-
ments in technology and growth of building space and student bodies, some things have remained the same for those who are sitting in the familiar classrooms of their youth—but are now on the other side of the teacher’s desk. “We change names and teachers, but we cannot change what the school means to its students. Books change, what is ‘in’ about teaching changes, but not the good solid character of the school and its community,” says Paul Mikulak.
PHOTO COURTESY OF OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP SCHOOL
Julia Fernandez, Kathie Soucek, Jaime Binder, Anne Obringer and Margaret Cuisinier
Alumnicontinued from page 39
“Because each child is unique”
1:12 teacher to student ratio High academic standards Hands-on, engaged learning Differentiated instruction Faith-based Affordable tuition Full & part-time pre-kindergarten
1550 S State St Chicago, IL 60605 312.791.0001 www.daystarschool.org
Come & See Daystar School
Walkthrough Wednesdays March 2, 9, 16, 30 & April 6, 13
Drop in 8:00 am - 12:00 Noon to See Classes in Session
Open House March 13 1:30 - 3:30 pm April 7 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Presentation Pre-K & Kindergarten Explained
March 13 2:00 - 3:00 pm
By Appointment Call 312.791.0001 to schedule a personal tour
Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 St. Robert Bellarmine
We strive to meet the needs of the total child: spiritual, emotional, academic, physical, and social. We offer a superior curriculum, highly-qualified faculty, excellent test scores year after year, and a values-based community where parents, faculty and students work together so children can flourish.
Tiny Tots for 2 year olds
Preschool for 3 & 4 year olds
Exceptional K–8 education
Before and after school care
New Summer Program coming in 2011!
LEARN MORE: srb-chicago.org | 773-725-5133
Open HouseJanuary 30
1–3pm
A vibrant Catholic education in the Jefferson Park-Portage Park area since 1931.
Making the Grade 2011 41A
open houses
Jan. 30 11am-1pm & April 12th at 9am
www.rpmschool.org
773.271.1700
1800 West Balmoral Avenue, Chicago
• for children ages 2 to 14• 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio• classes in fine arts, language, culture• quiet study areas and outdoor
class space• before and after school
programs available• new 47,000 square foot
educational campus
Learning that lasts a lifetime
42 Making the Grade 2011 A
Resurrection Pre-School and Toddler Programsinvites you to a
Saturday February 5, 2011 from 9:30-12.• Play-based • Developmental Programs for children ages 2-5
• Secular • Celebrating 40 Years in Lakeview • Resurrection Pre-School Corner of School St. & Seminary Ave.
1050 W. School. St. Chicago, IL 60657 No Reservations Needed • For more info call, 773-525-0605 x 16 • www.rlclakeview.com
Family Open House
Making the Grade 2011 43A
SCHOOL LISTINGSA MONTESSORI SCHOOL Park Ridge, Des PlainesNorwood Park (847) 292-1229 parkridgemontessori.com 6:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. -Year-Round Programs - Toddler, Pri-mary, and Kindergarten; ages 15 months - 6 years - Half-Day, School Hour, and Full-Day pro-grams - Summer Camp. This school is a partnership between home and school, wherein the aim is to foster the child’s intel-lectual growth, independence, responsibility, and sense of self-worth. The result of this partner-ship is a dynamic community of children, parents, and school staff committed to the positive development of each child.
AKIBA-SCHECHTER JEWISH DAY SCHOOL 5235 S. Cornell Ave., Chicago(773) 493-8880www.akibaschechter.orgFor more than 60 years, Akiba-Schechter has helped students excel through a belief in their unique strengths and abilities. A challenging and comprehen-sive General Studies and Jew-ish education from PreK - 8th grade. Low student-teacher ratio and multi-age classrooms allow flexibility to meet the gifts and needs of students. Gradu-ates are accepted at top high schools and colleges. Bus ser-vice to our award-winning Hyde Park campus is available from Skokie, Rodgers Park and Lin-coln Park.
ANCONA SCHOOL 4770 S. Dorchester Ave.Chicago(773) 924-2356www.anconaschool.orgThe Ancona School is a coed independent school serving children ages 3 through 14 providing a child-centered ex-perience-based education in a learning community character-ized by parent involvement and ethnic, cultural, and economic diversity.
ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Preschool thru 12th grade in Chicago and suburbs(312) 534-5250Schools.ArchChicago.org At a Catholic school, your child will receive an outstanding aca-demic foundation from people who share your values. Nation-ally, Catholic school students outperform others on tests for math, reading and science. They also lead in graduation rates, and they’re the most likely to go on to college. Catholic school students also receive a solid moral and spiritual foundation. After all, Catholic schools have always believed Christian teach-ings belong in school.
ARMITAGE ACADEMY 6032 Eighth Ave.Kenosha, WI(262) 654-4200www.armitageacademy.orgArmitage Academy is an inde-pendent K-8 coed school that recognizes that every child has their own unlimited and unique talents. The environment that we have designed brings out the child's natural desire to learn, question, and create. It is a place that instills curiosity and critical thinking skills. Our lib-eral arts approach concentrates on the whole education. Chil-dren at Armitage are inspired to dream more, do more, learn more, and become more.
AIMS(ASSOCIATION OFILLINOIS MONTESSORI SCHOOLS)(847) 945-7582 formembership/informationillinoismontessorischools.comMontessori is a scientific ap-proach to human development from birth through eighteen, noted for its whole child per-spective, including academic and social skills consistent with each child's physical, emotional and cognitive growth. Chil-dren in multi-age classrooms work at their own pace, choos-ing from carefully sequenced hands-on, project-based learn-ing activities. Opportunities for collaborative work and practical leadership are abundant. Marks of a Montessori education are confidence, competence, cre-ativity and compassion - the re-alization of full human potential
BAKERDEMONSTRATION SCHOOL201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette(847) 425-5800www.bakerdemschool.orgAn independent co-educational school for children early child-hood through eighth grade, Baker is dedicated to creating well-rounded students through the principles of progressive education. Founded in 1918, the curriculum today still re-flects the philosophy of educa-tional leaders John Dewey and Jean Piaget. In broad strokes, the school emphasizes hands-on learning over lectures and memorization of facts. Every day, Baker children love to learn, cherish the journey and serve the world.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LANGUAGE STARS
44 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSBANNER PRESCHOOL 3220 Big Tree Ln., Wilmette(847) 251-3955www.bannerpreschool.orgWe cordially invite you to ob-serve our classrooms and talk to our teachers to learn what makes us so special. Banner is recognized as a high qual-ity NAEYC accredited program that has been in the community for over 33 years. We offer pre-school programs for children 2 ½ to 5 years old and a kinder-garten enrichment program for children entering kindergarten. Our newest class is being of-fered to all children interested in learning Japanese culture and language. Learn more about our extended day program.
BERNARD ZELL ANSHE EMET DAY SCHOOL 3751 N. Broadway St., Chicago(773) 572-1236www.bzaeds.orgThe Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School is a fully accredited, independent, community Jew-ish day school with more than PHOTO COURTESY OF TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL
Saint Andrew SchoolProviding educational excellence in a vibrant and caring environment
Spirit. Study. Service.Spirit.
Study.
Service.
CAMPUS TOURS - 2nd Tuesday of each month at 9am
Making the Grade 2011 45A
SCHOOL LISTINGS525 students in grades nursery through eight. Families repre-sent Chicago’s diverse Jewish community, spanning the spec-trum of belief and practice. The Day School embodies a com-mitment to learning and ethi-cal values in an inclusive and nurturing environment. Stu-dents are challenged to pursue excellence in the classroom, on the stage, on the field and in the community.
BETHESDA LUTHERAN SCHOOL6803 N. Campbell AveChicago(773) 743-0800bethesdalutheranschool.orgBethesda Lutheran School has been a cornerstone of West Rogers Park for nearly 60 years and continues to grow to meet the diverse needs of our com-munity. As an extension of your family, we are committed to educating your children to be-come intelligent, well-rounded and socially active citizens in an ever-changing world. Please join us, that we may better the
future of our children, commu-nity and world with God’s guid-ance.
BREHM PREPARATORY SCHOOL 1245 E. Grand Ave.Carbondale(618) 457-0371www.brehm.orgBrehm School is an internation-ally known family-style board-ing school for boys and girls, grades 6-12 with complex learning disabilities. Brehm of-fers a unique holistic program that individually addresses each student’s academic, emotional and social needs. Our curricu-lum is college-preparatory, with emphasis on teaching students to become independent learn-ers and to develop self-advo-cacy skills. Including OPTIONS, our post-secondary program, Brehm School has the ability to empower 130 students to rec-ognize and achieve their full potential.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MI SOL MONTESSORI
At Temple Sholom’s Gan Shalom (an NAEYC accredited program), we are committed to providing
a nurturing Jewish learning environment for preschool age
children. We strive to instill self-confidence and a strong Jewish identity in our students and to create a supportive community
for our families. From our Parent Child-Classes through our full-day
Junior Kindergarten, we focus on the individual child and his/her developmental needs. Our Extended Day and Enrichment
options are incomparable!
We invite you contact us for further information and to arrange
for a tour and observation.
Gan Shalom 3480 North Lake Shore Dr.
Chicago 60657 773-525-4867
www.sholomchicago.org/education/gan_shalom
836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield847.945.0650 • 847.945.0699 fax
[email protected] • www.dfpd.org
reSchoOLSeptember - May Program
for children 2.5 - 5 years of age
Deerfield Park District
a quality, nurturing, developmental school where children learn to play and play to learn.
“Lunch Bunch” option before- and after Preschool.
Learning • Friends • Fun
46 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSBRICKTONMONTESSORI SCHOOL8622 W. Catalpa Ave., Chicago(773) 714-0646www.brickton.org Brickton Montessori School is one of the few Chicago area schools FULLY accredited by the American Montessori Soci-ety and ISACS. Celebrating 25 years of excellence, Brickton offers a hands-on learning ex-perience enhanced by low stu-dent-teacher ratios, excellent enrichment classes, extended hours and a variety of on-site extracurricular activities. Brick-ton is conveniently located just south of the Kennedy express-way, west of Cumberland Av-enue.
BRITISH SCHOOL OF CHICAGO814 W. Eastman St., Chicago(773) 506-2097britishschoolofchicago.orgThe British School of Chicago is a fully accredited international school in the city with approx 640 students in Preschool – PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHERINE COOK SCHOOL
the Nicholson School
Caring facilitators.
The Nicholson School
Our mission is to help young children embark on their personal life paths by encouraging them to get excited about learning... excited about asking why.
Preschool and Infant / Parent Early Childhood EducationServing Children 6 months – 4 years1700 West Cortland StreetChicago, IL 60622Tel. 312-493-6044www.novellanicholsonschool.org
Making the Grade 2011 47A
SCHOOL LISTINGSGrade 12. The school provides a broadly based British/Inter-national style education with the International Baccalaureate offered in the last two years of high school leading to an IB diploma. The school is well re-sourced and enjoys an excellent teacher student ratio and an exciting vibrant learning focus. The very best of current practice in the UK with an international perspective appropriate to its American home.
THE CATHERINECOOK SCHOOL Chicago(312) 266-3381www.catherinecookschool.orgThe Catherine Cook School in-spires children for life in a nur-turing learning environment focused on the formative years of preschool through eighth grade. Thoughtful teachers engage children in challeng-ing, project-based learning experiences, supported by our innovative technology. Our fo-cus on social development and encouraging personal excel-lence fosters a community of motivated learners. The result is a confident and ethical young person ready to succeed in high school and beyond.
THE CENTER FOR GIFTED, A NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY PARTNERBox 364, Wilmette(847) 901-0173www.centerforgifted.orgIgniting imaginations since1983. Summer and winter programs. PreK-12th grade. 17 Chicago-land programs for 2011. Inno-vative programs offering fresh opportunities to explore di-verse subjects in a challenging, creative environment, where talents and gifts emerge read-ily and develop naturally; where hands-on activities, inventive modes of participation and cre-ative teaching strategies inspire critical and creative thinking and enable students to effect discovery.
48 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSCENTER FOR TALENTDEVELOPMENT AT NORTHWESTERNUNIVERSITY617 Dartmouth Pl., Evanston(847) 491-3782www.ctd.northwestern.eduCTD, a nationally recognized and accredited learning center, offers testing and educational programs for academically talented students. Summer Programs (PreK – grade 12; residential & commuter). Civic Education Project service learn-ing programs (Grades 7 – 12). Saturday Enrichment Program (PreK – grade 9). Accelerated Weekend Experience (Grades 5 – 8). Gifted LearningLinks online courses (K – grade 12). North-western University’s Midwest Academic Talent Search above-grade-level testing (Grades 3 – 9). Learn More! www.ctd.northwestern.edu
CHALK PRESCHOOL 2840 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago(773) 935-73001425 N. Dayton, Chicago(312) 867-7100360 E. South Water St., Chicago(312) 565-7300www.chalkpreschool.comSafe and inspirational pre-schools, where play becomes learning. Our approach is based on traditional standards taught with hands on activities and arts integration. Year round, open enrollment, request start date and days of attendance. Includes ORGANIC Lunch.2, 3 and 5 days/week options for 2-6 year olds CHALK of Lakeview: 7:30-5:30 CHALK of Clybourn: Morning 8:30-12:30; Afternoon 1:30-4:30 CHALK of Lakeshore East (downtown in Lakeshore East Development): Opening Late Spring 2011
CHERRY PRESCHOOL 1418 Lake St., Evanston(847) 492-1213www.cherrypreschool.orgCherry Preschool is a develop-mental, nonsectarian preschool offering half-day classes, morn-ing and afternoon, for children ages 2 to 5. Parent governed and housed in an independent facility, Cherry Preschool is an
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708-434-0336
Making the Grade 2011 49A
SCHOOL LISTINGSinclusive community that wel-comes children with diverse backgrounds and special needs. Extended day lunch program and summer camp are also of-fered. Please call for more infor-mation or to schedule a visit.
CHIARAVALLEMONTESSORI 425 Dempster St., Evanston(847) 864-2190www.chiaravalle.orgChiaravalle Montessori School provides child-centered educa-tion in the Montessori tradition. Our inspired educators de-velop joyful, confident learners with the ability to think indepen-dently, communicate persua-sively and make responsible decisions. Serving Evanston and surrounding communities since 1965, we strive to provide a re-spectful, cooperative, diverse environment in which children may develop the full range of their abilities. Our children range in age from 6 months to 14 years, with full and partial-day options for young children.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SOLOMON SCHECTER DAY SCHOOL
Come to an Open HouseTues., February 1 - 9:00-11:00 amSun., April 3 - 10:00-1:00 pm
A nationally recognized school of excellencePreschool through Eighth GradeExcellent AcademicsSmall ClassesHi-tech Multimedia CenterState of the Art Science LabA Caring Catholic CommunityBefore and After School Daycare
1120 W. Washington Evanston, IL 60202 847-475-5678 www.popejohn23.org
50 Making the Grade 2011 A
Serving Families for over 50 Years
Programs for children aged 12 months to 5 years in 1, 2, 3 or 5 day classes
Highly qualified, nurturing teachers – all lead teachers have Master’s degrees
Fun-filled, play-based learningenvironment designed to promotecognitive, social and emotional growth
Extend your child’s day with ourEnrichment program
Exceptional student – teacher ratios
Children matriculate to all private,parochial and public schools in theChicago area
Scholarships available for qualified families
Sinai Preschool
Sinai Preschool15 West Delaware Place
Chicago, IL 60610312.867.7010
Register now for Fall of 2011-2012
A neighborhood school serving children of all races, religions and ethnic origins
in a Jewish setting.
Drawing / Painting / Animation Video / Graphic Design Architecture / Industrial Design / Photography / Fashion Advanced Portfolio Projects
CLASSES BEGIN FEBRUARY 12REGISTER NOWcall 312.629.6700 or visit www.saic.edu/ecp
EARLY COLLEGE PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTSAT THE SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO
GET A COLLEGE-LEVEL EXPERIENCE IN THE ARTS
Making the Grade 2011 51A
SCHOOL LISTINGSCHICAGO FRIENDS SCHOOL 6325 N. Hoyne, Chicago (773) 442-2371ChicagoFriendsSchool.orgChicago Friends School opened this fall and is accepting ap-plications for next year for age four through third grade ex-panding through eighth grade. Guided by Quaker principles of peace, equality, simplicity, integrity, community, and ser-vice, we welcome children of all cultural and religious back-grounds. We seek to create an educational environment that is built on nurturing relationships, meets children’s intellectual and emotional needs, and that fosters a sense of belonging, social awareness, and personal responsibility.
CHICAGO GRAMMAR SCHOOL 900 N. Franklin St., Ste. 104, Chicago(312) 944-5600 www.chicagogrammar.org Serving PreK - 6th grade for 2011-12. Chicago Grammar challenges children to construct knowledge through experi-ence, within the richness and demands of a Classical Curricu-lum. CGS combines the rigor of traditional learning with the creativity of progressive prac-tices: project based work that integrates science, literature,
history and the arts, is comple-mented with explicit instruction in reading, writing and math. Our Preschool program, full day and half day, is inspired by Reg-gio Emilia approach. Special scholarships opportunities for incoming 4th and 6th Graders.
CHICAGO JEWISHDAY SCHOOL 5959 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago(773) 271-2700chicagojewishdayschool.org Chicago Jewish Day School’s innovative integrated program weaves together the General Studies curriculum with Hebrew language, classic texts and tra-ditions. CJDS brings the joy of learning into an intimate setting where every child can develop socially, emotionally and aca-demically with the warmth and nurturing of our experienced faculty. CJDS is accepting appli-cations for JK through 8th grade for September 2011. Tours ev-ery Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment.
CHICAGOINTERNATIONALCHARTER SCHOOLProviding public school choice for parents in Chicago(312) 651-5000www.chicagointl.orgThe mission of Chicago Inter-national Charter School is to provide, through innovation
and choice, an attractive and rigorous college-preparatory education that meets the needs of today’s students. We expect the best of every student and, in turn, provide the support each student needs to achieve their best. With a network of 15 char-ter school campuses, serving nearly 9,000 students and their families, we are Committed to Greatness.
CHICAGO MONTESSORI1713 W. Cullom Ave., Chicago(773) 525-4358www.chicagomontessori.orgChicago Montessori currently serves children from 18 months through 8 years of age. It is the first and only school in the city to be accredited exclusively by Association Montessori Inter-national (AMI). This unique ac-creditation demonstrates our commitment to the highest quality Montessori education available. We offer Spanish im-mersion and physical educa-tion seamlessly integrated into the day. Elementary program through sixth grade began Fall 2010. Now accepting applica-tions for grades K-2. Montessori experience preferred.
CHICAGO WALDORF SCHOOL 1300 W. Loyola Ave., Chicago(773) 465-2371www.chicagowaldorf.org The Chicago Waldorf School
offers a progressive curriculum that successfully integrates arts and academics to bring out a genuine enthusiasm for learn-ing. Our unique approach to education corresponds to the various stages of human devel-opment by focusing not only on what children learn but how they learn. Contact us for more information and see why we are the fastest growing educa-tional movement in the world. SCHOOL TOUR & ORIENTA-TION SCHEDULE: January 13, February 10, March 10, 2011
CHICAGOLAND JEWISH HIGH SCHOOL 1095 Lake Cook Rd., Deerfield(847) 470-6700www.cjhs.orgChicagoland Jewish High School (CJHS) is a coed college preparatory high school com-mitted to academic excellence in both general and Judaic studies. Our students are drawn from both Jewish day schools and public middle schools and represent the full spectrum of Jewish observance. Students reside in 22 different commu-nities in and around the Chica-goland area. They receive a first rate education while participat-ing on sports teams and in fine arts programs. CJHS graduates are well-rounded, well-educat-ed, and confident about them-selves and their futures.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BAKER DEMONSTRATION SCHOOL
52 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSCHRISTIANBEGINNINGSPRESCHOOL AND CHILDCARE 824 Waukegan Rd., Deerfield(847) 945-5140email [email protected] Beginnings offers part time and full time enrollment for children 2 to 6 years of age. Jr Kindergarten, Kindergarten Enrichment and Summer Camp programs are also offered. For over 30 years, we have been providing a creative and imagi-native focus for children on their learning journey. Developmen-tally appropriate curriculum and a spiritual, nurturing beginning for a strong future.
CHRISTIAN HERITAGE ACADEMY Northfield (315 Waukegan Rd.)Chicago (1001 N. Crosby St.)(847) 446-5252www.christianheritage.orgChristian Heritage Academy is a non-denominational Chris-tian school serving over 450 students from 36 communities, accredited by NCA & ACSI and nationally recognized as a Blue Ribbon School. CHA offers an academically rigorous educa-tion which integrates a biblical worldview throughout the cur-riculum, with extracurricular op-portunities available in the arts and athletics. Parent involve-ment is encouraged. Classes are offered in Northfield (PreK-12th), and Chicago (PreK-K). Applications currently being accepted for 2011-2012 school year.
PHOTO COURTESY OF POPE JOHN XXIII SCHOOLFOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT US AT WWW.FTCNS.ORG
Learn together,
grow togetherplay together,
families togethercooperative nursery schoolIn Chicago’s Edgewater community
ADMISSIONS COFFEES
Learn about our programs, observe a classroom and have your questions answered. Attend a 2011 Admissions Coffee on one of the following Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Please RSVP by calling us at (773) 381-5200.
OPEN HOUSES
Join us for an Open House on one of the following Saturdays from 10 a.m. until noon.
January 29, 2011
February 26, 2011
January 14January 21February 4
February 18March 4March 18
April 8May 6
Space is limited! Mention this ad when you sign up for the 2010-2011 school year and receive
$2,000 OFF tuition! Expires 1/15/11
Call Lore at 847.697.3836 to set up an appointment. Visit us on the web at einsteinacademy.us
OPEN HOUSE: Sunday February 13 from 1pm-3pm. Are you concerned about your child's classroom size for the upcoming
2010-2011 school year? Does your child say they are bored in school? Do you feel as if your child has great academic potential but isn't
getting the attention they need?Great News! The Einstein Academy is right around the corner from where you live! Enrollment is open for the 2010-2011 school year. Come in for a visit to see how we can help your child succeed with our in dividualized curriculum, small class sizes and our advanced and challenging curriculum. We make learning fun!
The Einstein Academy 747 Davis Road Elgin, IL 60120
Making the Grade 2011 53A
SCHOOL LISTINGSCLUB Z TUTORING (773) 275-2582 Chicago(847) 864-8680 Evanstonclubztutoring.com/gotutormeWant your child to have straight A’s? Club Z! is the largest in-home tutoring company in the world, serving over 450 cities. We offer one-on-one tutoring in your home at affordable rates. Students are matched with cer-tified teachers and degreed professionals, who follow your child’s classroom curriculum. Flexible scheduling available, including nights and weekends. Pre-K-Adult. All subjects, in-cluding math, reading, test prep & study skills. Free consultation
CONCORDIA PLACE 3300 N. Whipple Ave, Chicago(773) 463-16003855 N. Seeley Ave., Chicago(773) 935-3739www.concordiaplace.orgConcordia Place provides quali-ty, licensed children’s programs: nurturing Early Learning for chil-dren 6 weeks to 36 months and Preschool for children 3-5 years. These NAEYC accredited pro-
grams are full-day, year-round, and you can apply any time. Our certified teachers follow the Illi-nois Early Learning Standards and the Creative Curriculum. All our programs use a sliding tuition scale. We also have an active after-school program and offer enrichment programs for teens, adults and seniors.
CYBERSHALA ONLINE LEARNING (630) [email protected] is an online k-12 e-learning website committed to teach only proven curriculums using proven teaching meth-odology through state of the art technology virtual class rooms. Teacher and student can see and hear each other and the classes are well scripted, lively and interactive. Presently Cy-beRShala offers k-12 Singapore Math and Science which has gained worldwide respect, and differs from other curriculums by utilizing a visual approach to problem-solving instead of solely a memory-based one.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GUERIN PREP SCHOOL
Preschool Enrichment Classes After School
visit us online at: www.concordiaplace.org
preschool openings
3300 N. Whipple
54 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSDAYSTAR SCHOOL 1550 S. State St., Chicago(312) 791-0001www.daystarschool.orgDaystar School, located in a spa-cious and modern downtown facility, provides children in grades PK-8 with a unique and stimulating, culturally engaged education which explores a biblical worldview perspective. All children are valued and em-braced as individuals with dis-tinct learning styles and learn in a diverse school community. High academic standards, small class sizes, and the use of Chi-cago’s rich resources are core components of Daystar’s pro-gram. Affordable private school education.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MI SOL MONTESSORI SCHOOL
www.icsnorthpark.com In O ld Town
1431 N. North Park, Chicago 60610 312-944-0304
grow with usWe’re proud to announce the addition of two new pre-school
classrooms and the opening of our highly anticipated middle
school campus for the 2011 school year. Apply now through
January 31, 2011 to become part of one of Chicago’s finest
Catholic schools.
NAEYC Accredited
State-of-the-art Preschool Facility
Outstanding Curriculum
SMART Boards
Foreign Language
Fine Arts Program: Drama, Visual Arts,
Dance, Multicultural Music
Safe Drop-off & Pick-up
Extended Day Care Available
Partial Scholarships Available
Making the Grade 2011 55A
Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School
5235 S. Cornell Ave., Chicago(773) 493-8880
www.akiba-schechter.orgPreK – Grade 8
Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School
3751 N. Broadway St., Chicago(773) 572-1236
www.bzaeds.orgNursery-8th Grade
Chicago Jewish Day School5959 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago
(773) 271-2700www.chicagojewishdayschool.org
Judy Finkelstein-Taff, Head of SchoolPreK - Grade 8
Gan Shalom Early Childhood Center
Temple Sholom of Chicago3480 N. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
(773) 525-4867www.sholomchicago.org/education/
gan_shalomRimma Khodosh, Director
Preschool
Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation
303 Dodge Ave., Evanston(847) 328-7678
www.jrc-evanston.orgBonnie Silverman, Director of the Early
Childhood ProgramTerri Bernsohn,
Director of the Religious School
Sinai Preschool15 W. Delaware Pl., Chicago
(312) 867-7011Rochelle Friedman, Director
PreK 26 mos. – 5yrs., Parent/Tot Enrichment,Afternoon programs
Solomon Schechter Day School
of Metropolitan ChicagoAdministrative Office
3210 Dundee Rd., Northbrook(847) 412-5654
www.schechter.orgLinda P. Foster, CEO/Head of School
Rabbi Sheryl Katzman, Skokie Solomon Schechter Day School
Dr. Lena Kushnir, Sager Solomon Schechter Day School
Holly Rosenberg, Sager Solomon Schechter Middle School
Jewish Day Schools
CelebrateKnowledge...
Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School
56 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSDA VINCI ACADEMY 37W080 Hopps Rd., Elgin(847) 841-7532www.dvacademy.orgDa Vinci Academy is an ISACS accredited independent school serving intellectually gifted students and their families. At DVA, each student is known, accepted, challenged, and en-gaged. We provide small class-es and challenging academics for grades PK-8, with teachers who understand the needs of gifted children. Summer Camp and Saturday Enrichment pro-grams are open to the public. Visit our website or schedule a tour to learn what makes DVA a place where bright minds take flight.
DEERFIELDPARK DISTRICT 836 Jewett Park Dr., Deerfield(847) 572-2611www.dfpd.orgPlay to Learn and Learn to Play. Deerfield Park District Preschool is a developmental program where children 2.5-5 years of age learn to play and
play to learn. We believe that through play and problem solv-ing, children learn the basic skills necessary to achieve –so-cially, emotionally, intellectually, physically, and creatively. We of-fer part-time enrollment and are licensed by the State of Illinois. For a tour or more information, call 847-572-2634 or email: [email protected].
DR. BILL’SLEARNING CENTERSOak Park(708) 434-0336Chicago(773) 626-5551A holistic educational rehabila-tive service for youth with special needs such as Attention Deficit, Anxiety, or serious learning dif-ficulties. Dr. Bill McMiller is a pe-diatrician and child psychiatric/educational rehabilitationist helping youth with school fail-ure since 1988. Services include screening, diagnosis, advocacy, and individualized treatment by tutors, motivators and clinicians. Family-centered specialized tu-toring combines your family’s own positive protective char-
PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANCIS PARKER SCHOOL
6218 Capulina Avenue Morton Grove, IL 60053
(847) 965-4750 www.jerusalemlutheran.org
Jerusalem Lutheran School
Great ValueExcellent ProgramsBefore School Care starting at 7:00 a.m.Pre-School and Pre-K Full and Half dayKindergarten Full and Half day1st through 8th GradesAfter School Care 3:00 P.M. to 6:00 p.m.
Jerusalem Lutheran School now accepts F-1 students.Contact Jerusalem for an I-20.
Pre-S and Pre-KDays 2 3 58:00- $120 $180 $300 11:30 mo. mo. mo.8:00- $220 $280 $400 3:00 mo. mo. mo.
Kindergarten8:30-11:30 $175/mo.8:30-3:00 $225/mo.
Grades 1-8$325 a month
GREAT EDUCATION IN A CHRISTIAN ENVIRONMENT
Jerusalem Lutheran School (JELS) welcomes all students in the Chicagoland area. JELS has also applied for F-1 status in order to accept I-20 students. JELS offers Preschool 3, Preschool 4, Full and Half Day Kindergarten, and grades one to eight, all at very affordable prices. JELS' goal is to teach all subjects in the light of God's Word. When you enter the building, you will notice a friendly, family-like atmosphere, and a structured environment that promotes learning.
Terra Nova Test Results(10/2010) Grade Equivalent Scores
Grades 3rd 5th 7thReading 7.3 7.4 10.7Language 5.3 6.2 11.7Math 4.9 7.2 10.9
Making the Grade 2011 57A
SCHOOL LISTINGSacteristics and life experiences with professional techniques that increases your second to tenth grader’s chance of better grades and self-confidence.
A FAIRYTALE BALLETChicago/Lakeview(773) 477-4488Chicago/Old Irving Park(773) 606-0318North Evanston(773) 477-4488www.AFairytaleBallet.comWatch the art of dance come to life within your child! Through educational ballet classes, your child gains confidence in a stimulating and engaging en-vironment. A Fairytale Ballet cultivates the love of dance at a young age, inspiring a sense of adventure, belonging and true accomplishment. The programs are easy for children to learn and understand, yet still challenge their develop-ing minds. Costumes, props, literature, dance and ballet...A Fairytale Ballet inspires children to new heights of creativity.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BREHM PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Tours are offered every Tuesday and Wednesday morning by appointment. We encourage you to schedule one today! Contact Cortney Stark Cope in our Admissions Department, 773-271-2700 or [email protected].
58 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGS
FAMILIES TOGETHER COOPERATIVENURSERY SCHOOL 1500 W. Elmdale Ave., Chicago(773) 381-5200www.ftcns.orgFamilies Together Cooperative Nursery School, in Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, was founded by parents with a deep desire to be active in their chil-dren's first school experience. A dedicated teaching staff, assisted by parents, creates a child-centered, play-oriented, developmentally appropriate environment for our children. We offer part-time nursery and pre-kindergarten programs for 2.5- to 4-year-olds. Please at-tend an Admissions Coffee or Open House! Call or check our website for dates and times.
FAMILY LIFE PROGRAMFirst Congregational, UCC1047 Curtiss St.Downers Grove(630) 968-0527www.flpreschool.orgFamily Life serves as a mission outreach program at the First Congregational Church (UCC) of Downers Grove. Our full-day and half-day preschool, child-care and kindergarten, serving children ages 3-6, is licensed by the State of Illinois DCFS. We are accredited by NAEYC which
sets the standards for provid-ing quality care to children. The Family Life Program has been in existence since 1960 and has a well known reputation in the Downers Grove community.
FENWICKHIGH SCHOOL 505 W. Washington Blvd.Oak Park(708) 948-0320 fenwickfriars.com Fenwick, a college preparatory high school, educates young men and women in the liberal arts and sciences and is dedicat-ed to the values of excellence, leadership and tradition which emanate from and sustain its Catholic and Dominican charac-ter. As a premier academic insti-tution, Fenwick offers a unique culture, a balanced student life and the opportunity for every student to find his or her place among a diverse and support-ive community. Discover Fen-wick – www.fenwickfriars.com
FOURTH CHURCHDAY SCHOOL 126 E. Chestnut St., Chicago(312) 640-2579fourthchurch.org/dayschool.htmlThe Fourth Church Day School offers a classroom environ-ment encouraging cognitive
PHOTO COURTESY OF BRICKTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL
Preschool – 8th Grade* Christ- centered education* Full Athletic Program starting in Grade 5* Full band program starting in Grade 4* Resource Program* Diverse extracurricular programs in sciences, art,
drama, foreign language and more
Come and find out why and join us. . .
Call us at (847) 253-6638 or visit stpeter-ah.orgto find out more about the difference this NEWS
can make for your child.
St. Peter Lutheran School in Arlington Heights
Have you Heard the News?
Named Best Private SchoolDaily Herald’s 2010 Reader’s Choice Awards
Our Mission For Over 140 years
Nurture: our staff cares for the heart, mind and spirit of each child
Educate: a solid curriculum provides a proven springboard for success
Witness: students learn about and live out their faith
Serve: all classes reach out, give back, and serve others
Making the Grade 2011 59A
SCHOOL LISTINGSdevelopment through play and planned activities. The school enrolls three and four-year-old children five mornings a week in the AM class, or three after-noons a week in the PM class. A morning Twos-and-Parent class is also offered. Classes are held September through May. Observers are welcome with an appointment. Call the Day School for information and ap-plications.
FOX RIVER COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 1600 Dundee Ave., Elgin(847) 888-7910www.frcds.orgFox River Country Day School is located on a beautiful 53 acre wooded campus. Our mission is to educate the whole child through a values-based cur-riculum conducted in a home-like environment, combining academic excellence with indi-vidual character development. Environmental education, swimming, art, music & drama, computer science, Spanish, athletics and ethics enhance
the learning experience. After school and summer enrichment programs available. Serving students in Preschool through Grade 8. Boarding opportuni-ties are available.
FRANCES XAVIER WARDE SCHOOL 120 S. Des Plaines, Chicago751 N. State, Chicago (312) 798-4058www.fxw.orgFXW School is driven by a vi-sion of creating a unique urban educational program for the children of Chicago. As a Catho-lic school that embraces multi-faith values, teachers provide a high quality, positive, value driven education to students of all ethnic, religious and socio-economic backgrounds. The individual values of all children are respected, supported and encouraged. FXW’s rigorous curriculum enables students to grow, clarify their values and develop decision making skills. In turn, students have a sense of responsibility for themselves and the world they will inherit.
The Young Women’s Leadership Charter School inspires urban girls to engage in rigorous college preparatory learning in a small school that is focused on math, science and technology and that nurtures their self-confidence and challenges them to achieve.
• Single-sex education provides focus and collaboration
• Extensive College Prep program • 10th grade Internship• External Partnerships
• On-site social workers and health clinic
• Small teacher: Student ratio• Full-inclusion Special
Education services
2641 S. Calumet Ave. Chicago, IL 60616 | www.ywlcs.org
APPLY NOW! 7th-12th Grade Young Women
Only All-Girls Chicago Public School
Final Open House Date
Thursday, January 27, 5:30-7:30PM
Call today (312) 949-9400 to schedule a school visit!
GIRLS OF TODAY, LEADERS OF TOMORROW.
IS YOUR CHILD HAPPY IN SCHOOL?Get to know this full-time, tuition-free public school option
Chicago Virtual Charter School and K12 give Chicago kids in grades K–12 the chance to learn in the ways that are right for them. CVCS offers:
• The award-winning K12 curriculum
• Support from state-certified teachers
• An active, supportive school community
• A blend of traditional brick-and-mortar schooling and online learning
• A robust Advanced Learner Program
• Books, materials, and loaner computer system
CVCS is one of ten charter schools in the state to make the Illinois Honor Roll in 2009
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO MAKE A CHANGE IN
YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION THIS YEAR. We’re still
accepting applications for the 2010–2011 school year. Find complete
details and a list of upcoming events, including the 2010 Winterland
of Gingerbread, at K12.COM/CHI or call 866.612.1418.
Online schooling from
America’s leader: K12
K12 makes learning come alive with
online content, textbooks, hands-on
activities, and expert teachers. Our
options include tuition-free online
public schools, an accredited private
school, and direct purchase of 210+
courses. K12 is the leader in online
education for grades K–12. Find out
why at K12.com.
K12.com
•
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CVC
Follow us on Twitter @K12Learn
Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/K12inc
60 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSSUMMER PROGRAMS AT PARKER 2011 Francis W. Parker School330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago(773) 797-5104www.fwparker/summersSummer Programs at Parker offers exciting summer educa-tional programming and rec-reational activities for students entering JK through 12th grade. Our campus, with its spacious outdoor playground, grassy soccer field, well equipped classrooms and renovated au-ditorium, scenery and wood shops offers access to a wide range of fun-filled day camp ac-tivities and enrichment courses. Take a look at our 2011 offerings and register online at fwparker.org/summers.
GAN SHALOM 3480 N. Lake Shore Dr.Chicago(773) 525-4867www.sholomchicago.org/edu-cation/gan_shalomGan Shalom provides a Jewish education for preschool-age
children based on a develop-mental approach to learning. The program is committed to strengthening family life through fostering self-confidence and a strong Jewish identity in its stu-dents. Gan Shalom is NAEYC ac-credited and follows the Reggio Emilia approach to teaching. Its Extended Day and Enrichment options are incomparable! Tours and observations are by appointment only.
GATEWAYMONTESSORI SCHOOL3748 W. Montrose Ave.Chicago(773) 539-3025gatewaymontessorischool.org Gateway Montessori is a non-profit education center for young children, dedicated to quality education based on the principles of Dr. Maria Montes-sori. Montessori education is a non-traditional and holistic ap-proach to working with young children. More than just aca-demics, Montessori education aids the natural development of children, beginning from birth.
Come Grow with us…
Parent-Child Program: For parents with children up to 18 months.
Community: For children 15 months to 3 years old.
Children’s House: For children 3 to 6 years old.
At Home in the Arts: Two 4-week Summer Sessions for children 2 to 6 years old.
Gateway Montessori School3748 West Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60618
www.GatewayMontessoriSchool.orgPhone: 773-539-3025
Email: [email protected]
Nurturing the potential within each child
CHICAGOLAND JEWISH HIGH SCHOOLA vibrant, co-ed college prep Jewish high school
DedicatedOur faculty is committed to excellence in general and Judaic studies.
DynamicMore than 40 different student groups in athletics, arts, and social action.
DiverseCJHS students come from more than 20 communities and from public, private and Jewish middle schools.
Come See Us!Enrollment for the 2011-2012/5772 school year has begun!
Contact Rachel Spiro,Director of Admissions, to schedule a tour or to request an application—847-324-3706 or [email protected].
CURRICULUM AND BEYOND INFORMATION NIGHTMonday, February 14, 2011, 7:00 p.m. at CJHS
WWW.CJHS.ORG
Making the Grade 2011 61A
SCHOOL LISTINGSGateway offers The Parent-Infant Program, ages 3 months to 18 months; The Community, ages 15 months to 3 years; and Children’s House, 3-6 years.
THE GLENHOLMESCHOOL, A DEVEREUX CENTER 81 Sabbaday Ln.Washington, CT 06793(860) 868-7377www.theglenholmeschool.orgAn exceptional boarding school for students with special needs; The Glenholme School offers an individually prescribed learning environment with a steadfast academic curriculum. Using our effective individualized servic-es, we apply a positive behavior support model focused on de-velopment of social skills and lifelong strategies for success. The school’s milieu therapy ad-dresses varying levels of aca-demic, social and special needs development in students ages 10 -18 and postgraduates. We prepare graduates for contin-ued education in traditional day
schools, boarding schools, col-leges and universities.
GOOD SHEPHERDLUTHERAN SCHOOL & PRECIOUS LAMBS ECLC525 63rd St., Downers Grove(630) 852-5081www.gsdg.orgGood Shepherd Lutheran School is a place where chil-dren learn and grow. Our goal is to contribute to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotion-al and social development of children. Our school provides a quality education, with high standards and achievement. Our low student to teacher ratio promotes a loving, supportive, safe environment. Good Shep-herd is nationally accredited by the NCPSA.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ANCONA SCHOOL
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An academic program that combines intellectual • challenge and rigor with social, emotional, and character development. SMARTBoard technology in ALL classrooms. • A partner with Northwestern University Center for • Talent Development.
500 North Benton (Benton & Northwest Highway), Palatine, IL 60067Contact Leslie Kovich at 847.202.8035, ext. 438
www.questacademy.org
COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, January 9, 20111:00-2:30 P.M.
An independent school for gifted children from Preschool through Eighth Grade.
62 Making the Grade 2011 A
Classical Dance Education for the 21st Century
REGISTER NOW AND RECEIVE AN EDUCATION THAT
CHALLENGES THE BODY AND THE MIND
northsidedt.com 773.754.0192
By offering dance classes in the areas of Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Tap & Hip-Hop for students of all ages and levels of dance, our goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment for learning, performing and enjoying dance.
2101 N. Fremont Street Chicago, IL 60614
773.525.4990 www.stjames-lutheran.org
St. James Lutheran School
Preparing Students for Success
+ Preschool - Eighth Grade+ Fully accredited
+ A high-quality, affordable education in a Christian community
+ Scholarships and tuition aid available + Call today to schedule a tour!
What did you want to be when you grew up? A business executive, photographer, scholar?
At St. James we give our students the opportunity to achieve their big dreams by preparing them for success in Chicago’s premier high schools and beyond.
Making the Grade 2011 63A
SCHOOL LISTINGSTHE GREEN ROOM 1915 W. Chicago Ave, Chicago(312) 685-2774www.thegreenroomstudio.tvOn-Camera Acting Classes for Kids and Teens 8 week acting classes for age groups 5-7yrs, 8-10yrs, 11-13yrs and 14-17yrs. All levels of experience welcome! Learn to compete in Chicago’s acting market for Film, TV, and Commercials...or just join us to increase self-esteem through the ownership of unique & contemporary com-munication skills!
GUARDIAN ANGELORTHODOX DAY SCHOOL2350 E. Dempster St.Des Plaines(847) 827-5510 stjohnthebaptistgoc.org/guardianangel/ At Guardian Angel we strive to build a strong foundation for your child, both academically and spiritually. Established in
1999, the pre-K through 5th grade full day school program provides an academically excel-lent education through highly qualified teachers and small class sizes. Our curriculum is re-search-based, rooted in Ortho-dox Christian faith, and includes Greek language instruction, music, gym, religion, and extra-curricular activities. Come and see how your child will thrive at Guardian Angel!
THE HOWE SCHOOLP.O. Box 240, Howe, IN 46746(260) 562-2131www.thehoweschool.orgThe Howe School is a private, college-preparatory, co-edu-cational boarding school for grades 5-12 and affiliated with the Episcopal Church. Since 1884, Howe has equipped young people for college and career in a structured, focused environment. The military sys-tem is not used to prepare stu-dents for a military career. It is a tool to assist our students for success and leadership. Howe
sponsors a wide variety of sports.
ILLINOISMATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE ACADEMY® 1500 Sullivan Rd., Aurora630) 907-5000www.imsa.eduThe internationally recognized Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® (IMSA) develops creative, ethical leaders in sci-ence, technology, engineering and mathematics. As a teaching and learning laboratory created by the State of Illinois, IMSA enrolls academically talented Illinois students (grades 10-12) in its advanced, residential college preparatory program, and it serves thousands of edu-cators and students in Illinois and beyond through innova-tive instructional programs that foster imagination and inquiry. IMSA also advances educa-tion through research, ground-breaking ventures and strategic partnerships.
IMMACULATECONCEPTION 7263 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago(773) 775-0545www.iccowboys.net “I.C. puts the cool in school.” Our school cultivates an inspiration-al atmosphere where students are encouraged to shoot for the stars. You can be INVOLVED in clubs and sports, INSPIRED in your faith, INVESTED in the fu-ture, and INFORMED through a complete academic program. Students are taught to network skills, support friends and cheer them on to success. All these in-gredients help to create a close-knit and welcoming community of families and friends making I.C. THE PLACE TO BE. Call to arrange a personal tour or visit us at: iccowboys.net
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANGUAGE & MUSIC SCHOOL
64 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSIMMACULATECONCEPTION SCHOOL 1431 N. North Park Ave.Chicago(312) 944-0304www.icsnorthpark.comICS serves students in Prek 3 through 8th grade and offers a high quality, faith-based edu-cation rooted in Catholic tra-ditions. ICS utilizes a unique co-teaching model that places two certified teachers in every classroom. The curriculum and instruction are designed to stim-ulate the intellectual, spiritual, physical and cultural develop-ment of each child. ICS will be opening a new state-of-the-art middle school in August, 2011. Application deadline: January 31, 2011.
INTERCULTURAL301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park (708) 838-6626114 S. Racine, Chicago(312) 265-1514 Intercultural Montessori Lan-guage School is a dual language school that nurtures learning in PHOTO COURTESY OF CHALK PRESCHOOL
St. Robert Bellarmine
We strive to meet the needs of the total child: spiritual, emotional, academic, physical, and social. We offer a superior curriculum, highly-qualified faculty, excellent test scores year after year, and a values-based community where parents, faculty and students work together so children can flourish.
Tiny Tots for 2 year olds
Preschool for 3 & 4 year olds
Exceptional K–8 education
Before and after school care
New Summer Program coming in 2011!
LEARN MORE: srb-chicago.org | 773-725-5133
Open HouseJanuary 30
1–3pm
A vibrant Catholic education in the Jefferson Park-Portage Park area since 1931. For more information, call (708) 386-5555
or visit ChicagoParent.com
January to May
Camp 2011
Making the Grade 2011 65A
SCHOOL LISTINGSan environment that celebrates cultural differences. We aim to educate children ages 3 to 12 years to become bilingual and bi-literate by offering programs in Spanish/English, Japanese/English and Chinese/English. Our curriculum equips children with the skills required for citi-zenship within a global society. Part of our mission is to develop confident, multicultural, mul-tilingual children who respect diversity and community.
IT TAKES A VILLAGEAT RIVER CITY 800 S. Wells St., Suite 180Chicago(312) 675-0053www.thevillagellc.comIt Takes a Village offers the gold standard in early childhood de-velopment with an unmatched academic focus. Our mission is to uncover the gifts and tal-ents of students so that they can reach their fullest potential. Our curriculum skillfully weaves artistic and practical disciplines into everyday academics. Stu-dents learn to follow their curi-osity, to think creatively and to work both independently and cooperatively with others.
JERUSALEMEVANGELICALLUTHERAN SCHOOL 6218 Capulina Ave.Morton Grove(847) 965-4750www.jerusalemlutheran.orgJerusalem Lutheran School (JELS) welcomes all students in the Chicagoland area. JELS offers Preschool 3, Preschool 4, Full and Half Day Kindergarten, and grades one to eight, all at very affordable prices. JELS' goal is to teach all subjects in the light of God's Word. When you enter the building, you will notice a friendly, family-like atmosphere, and a structured environment that promotes learning. JELS is also a certified F-1 status school, accepting I-20 students from abroad.
OPEN HOUSE
SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2011 NOON - 2:00 PM
www.sauganashmontessori.com
Please stop in and visit our outstanding Preschool & Kindergarten
• Offering morning, partial and full day programs • Academic year & summer camps • Open 7:30am-6:00pm • Organic catered hot lunch and snacks • Language Stars Spanish and Professional Music Class
5750 N. ROGERS AVENUE CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60646 773-545-6295 (At the corner of Kilbourn & Rogers)
Awaken your child’s senses through creativity and hands-on exploration
An enriching and nurturing environment for children three to six years of age
Sauganash Montessori School
66 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSJUF RIGHT START (312) 357-4513www.juf.org/rightstartGet off to the right start with JUF Right Start. The Jewish United Fund believes there’s a world of learning, values, community and sheer joy awaiting your child at Chicago-area Jewish preschool and day-care programs. To help you discover it, JUF Right Start will pay $500 to $1,000 toward the tuition of the first child in your family to enroll in a partici-pating program at least 3 days a week. It’s the Jewish commu-nity’s gift to your family – and to your child’s future.
K12-CHICAGO VIRTUAL CHARTER SCHOOL (866) 612-1451www.k12.com/cvcs/A traditional classroom instruc-tion combined with the latest in online learning, and an active supportive school community. We offer a high quality, tuition-free public education that includes passionate, state-certi-fied teachers. It is an individual-ized approach to learning, and
is an ideal fit for accelerated learners. The Chicago Virtual Charter School - K¹² ignite the minds of children to bring learn-ing alive. Together, we are help-ing Chicago students in grades K-11 reach their true, personal potential.
KUMON Math – Reading – Success(877) KUMON71www.kumon.comKumon is an afterschool enrich-ment program that unlocks the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. Founded in Japan in 1958, the learning method uses an individualized approach that helps children develop a solid command of math and read-ing skills. Through daily prac-tice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration and de-velop better study skills. Kumon has 26,000 centers in 46 coun-tries and more than four million students studying worldwide.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL
* Serving 2 year olds through 8th grade
* Christian values are nurtured * Maximum class size
of 26 students* Music programs: Band,
Strings, Handbells, Choir
* Extracurricular and athletic programs
* State-of-the-Art Technology Center
* Extended care available* Student service opportunities
within the community
Nurturing students on the north side of Chicago for over 70 years
2500 West Bryn Mawr Chicago, IL 60659 Admissions – 773.561.3044
St. Philip Lutheran School
Come play with usCherry Preschool is celebrating its 19th year of creating a caring community for young learners and their families. Our half-day early childhood classes bring children of all abilities and backgrounds together to play and grow.
Open HouseThursday, January 20th -- 7:30-9:00 pm
2011-12 registration due by February 10
Warren W. Cherry Preschool1418 Lake Street Evanston (847) 492-1213
www.cherrypreschool.org
Making the Grade 2011 67A
SCHOOL LISTINGSLAKE FOREST COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 145 S. Green Bay Rd.Lake Forest(847) 234-2350OneOfOne.lfcds.orgOpen House: Friday, January 21, 2011 • 9:00 a.m.; Thursday, February 24, 2011 • 9:00 a.m. We think your student is some-one exceptional. That’s why our teachers design curricula that are engaging and inspire a pas-sion for learning. Cutting-edge technology, a state-of-the-art facility, and a caring community round out the LFCDS experi-ence. Since 1888, our graduates have achieved superior aca-demic results and have become self-confident leaders in high school and beyond. Let Lake Forest Country Day School lay the foundation for your child’s educational success.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ILLINOIS MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
BUILD A STRONG FOUNDATIONFOR YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE AT
For additional information please call847.827.5510 or visit our website:www.stjohnthebaptistgoc.org/guardianangel
Academic excellence
Highly qualified teachers
Spiritual formation
Small class sizes
Greek language & culture
Guardian Angel OrthodoxDay School
Preschool registrationbegins Jan 10, 2011
K-5th Grade registrationbegins Feb 1, 2011
68 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSLAKEFRONTCHILDREN’S ACADEMY400 E. Randolph St., Ste. 6BChicago(312) 819-1760lakefrontchildrensacademy.comConveniently located in the center of Chicago, LCA is a full service private academy serving preschool ages 2-6 years and after school ages 7-12, with an enhanced curriculum and solid educational program featuring: computer readiness, math and reading readiness, science, indi-vidual piano lessons, languages and more! Also offering: low child-to-staff ratios and on-site security cameras for added pro-tection. Outings include field trips to the many nearby muse-ums and the playground is right across the street.
LANGUAGE STARSLocations around Chicagoland(866) 55-STARS (557-8277)www.languagestars.com100% Fun, 100% Immersion! Play-based, fun foreign lan-guage immersion programs for children ages 1-10. Our FunIm-mersion® method offers a natu-
ral and easy way for children to learn a second language through an engaging mix of songs, games, arts & crafts, treasure hunts and more! In a dynamic and fun environment, children are immersed by na-tive speakers in Spanish, French, German, Italian and Mandarin Chinese. Learning a foreign lan-guage will never again be this fun or exciting!
LATIN SCHOOLOF CHICAGO 59 W. North Blvd., Chicago(312) 582-6000www.latinschool.orgLatin School of Chicago is an in-dependent day school serving 1,100 students in junior kinder-garten through 12th grade. The school’s mission is to provide its students with a rigorous, in-novative educational program in a community that embraces diversity of people, cultures and ideas. Latin students come from close to 70 different zip codes throughout the Chicago area. The school offers more than $2.8 million in financial aid to students annually.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTHWEST CHICAGO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Village Leadership Academy800 S. Wells St. Suite 90Chicago, IL 60607(312) 675-0056
www.vlacademy.org
Collectively our classes function on at least one grade levelabove their current grade.
Students are placed in classrooms based on social maturityand academic ability, not age. We believe students mustbe continuously challenged.
• Extended School Day
• Leadership Development
• Social Justice Curriculum
• World Scholars Program
• French & Capoeira Classes
Village Leadership Academy, a private school, extendsthe focused and aggressive approach to curriculum,
instruction and learning that is the hallmark ofour Early Learning Centers.
It Takes A Village Early Learning andInfant Care Center
Now enrolling childrenAges 6 weeks- 5 years
It Takes a Village offers the gold standardin early childhood development
with an unmatched academic focus.• Specialization in early reading and math instruction80% of 5-year-olds entering kindergarten read at a 1st grade leveland understand basic math facts such as addition, subtraction,graphing and fractions
• Use of the Creative Curriculum and Building Language forLiteracy Programs
• Computers in all 2-year-old and preschool classrooms• Monthly field trips• Ongoing student portfolios that include student projects, progressreports, etc.
• Regular Parent Meetings and Family Literacy Nights
It Takes a Village at River City800 S. Wells St. Suite 180Chicago, IL 60607(312) 675-0053
www.thevillagellc.com
Now enrolling kindergarten through 5th grade studentsfor the 2011-2012 school year.
Village Leadership Academy
Making the Grade 2011 69A
Hours: 6:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Year Round Programs Toddler, Primary, and Kindergarten,
ages 12 months to 6 years Half-day, School-Hour, and Full-Day
Programs Summer Camp/School Before- and After-School Programs Foreign Languages Music, Private Piano, & Dance Lessons Multicultural, Multilingual Environment Registered with the Illinois State Board
of Education Affiliations with the American
Montessori Society, Association of Illinois Montessori Schools, North American Montessori Teachers Association, and NAEYC Teacher Certifications by the
American Montessori Society and Association Montessori Internationale B.A. and M.A. degreed staff One and a half blocks from Metra
(847) 292-1229 www.montessoriacademyofillinois.com
Park Ridge • Northbrook
Montessori Academy of Illinois
OPEN HOUSES:
OR CALL TO ARRANGE A TOUR
Friday, January 21, 2011, 5:30-7:30 pmSunday, February 20, 2011, 1:00-3:00 pm
Saturday, March 19, 2011, 1:00-3:00 pmSunday, April 10, 2011, 1:00-3:00 pm
70 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSLEARNING THROUGH PLAY PRESCHOOLPROGRAM633 W. Addison, Chicago(312) 458-9865www.pediatricresources.orgThe Center for Child Devel-opment offers a half-day pre-school program designed to prepare children for successful integration into the school sys-tem. Our program is very help-ful for children who need a little extra support to develop their social and speech skills. Taught by developmental, art, speech, and music therapists, our play-based program helps children develop the skills necessary to be successful learners!
PHOTO COURTESY OF QUEEN OF PEACE HIGH SCHOOL
Immaculate Conception School 7263 W. Talcott Ave, Chicago 60631
773-775-0545 / iccowboys.net Accredited by: Archdiocese of Chicago, NAEYC and the State of Illinois
National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence We have it all.......... religion • football • spanish • weekly mass • cheerleading • language arts • soccer • cooking club • science • band • reading • spanish club • basketball • mathematics • journalism • dance • drama • DePaul school of music • algebra • chess • tae kwon do • altar servers • choristers • bell ringers • art • social studies • science club • quiz bowl • battle of the books • computer • legos • volleyball • softball • physical education • honors algebra • sacramental preparation • yoga • house system • student council • music • baseball
Plus..... A welcoming environment • developmental resource • speech therapy • community service • enrichment program • extended care • hot lunch • active parents club, athletic and school boards
Making the Grade 2011 71A
SCHOOL LISTINGSTHE LEELANAU SCHOOLOne Old Homestead RoadGlen Arbor, MI 49636(800) 533-5262www.leelanau.orgFor over 80 years, The Leelanau School has challenged high school students to reach be-yond their acknowledged po-tential in every aspect of their lives. We offer a rigorous col-lege preparatory curriculum us-ing multi-sensory, experiential, and strength-based method-ologies. We offer an approach to education that is excellent for all learners, and critical for those with learning differences. Students gain awareness of their individual learning styles, build skills and strategies to maximize their learning poten-tial, and grow into independent learners.
LINCOLN PARKPREPARATORY &LINCOLN PARKPRESCHOOL 312 W. Belden Ave., Chicago(773) 665-0110lincolnparkpreschool.com Play is the foundation for learn-ing at Lincoln Park Preparatory. We believe that through play, children experience the joy of learning thus developing self-confidence and a passion for school. Our teachers have de-grees in early childhood related programs and use their experi-ence and knowledge to create dynamic, discovery based activ-ities that nurture and grow each child individually. This growth is communicated daily and is es-sential to developing a strong home/school connection.
Call today to schedule your tour and classroom observation 8622 West Catalpa Ave. Chicago, IL 60656 773.714.0646 www.brickton.org Ages 2-14. Fully accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States and the American Montessori Society.
© G
.Yoshioka 2007
Providing Quality Music Education Since 1981
For Ages 6-months to Adult
BabySTEPS® our nationally acclaimed early
childhood program
Suzuki and Traditional Music Instruction in Violin, Cello, Piano, Flute, Guitar and Voice
Now at two convenient locations!
1148 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago 60642 1016 North Dearborn Parkway, Chicago 60610
Call Today for a Complimentary Class!
312-738-2646 www.suzukiorff.org
72 Making the Grade 2011 A
For more than 60 years, Akiba-Schechter has helped students excel through a belief in their unique strengths and abilities. We provide a challenging and comprehensive General Studies and Jewish education. Our graduates are accepted at top high schools and colleges.
LEARNING FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE
5235 S. Cornell Ave. Chicago, IL 60615 (773) 493–8880
www.akibaschechter.org
4770 South Dorchester Avenue, Chicago ph. (773) 924-2356 www.anconaschool.org
Experience the power and joy of learning
Progressive EducationRooted in Montessori Tradition.
For more information about our program, visit www.anconaschool.org, or contact the Admissions Office at (773) 924-2356.
Ancona is an innovative learning community that values each child’s unique abilities and builds a strong academic foundation.
Educating students 3 years old through 8th grade, for more than 45 years.
World Language Camp Art Music Summer Program After School Athletics
Making the Grade 2011 73A
SCHOOL LISTINGSLINCOLN PARKPREPARATORY& KINDERGARTEN 108 W. Germania Pl., Chicago(312) 482-9009lincolnparkpreschool.comLincoln Park Preparatory’s Kin-dergarten program expands our preschool experience by further readying children for future academic success. This is achieved through our dedica-tion to a play based approach to learning. Our full-day pro-gram provides a combination of independent discovery, large, small group instruction as well as one on one guiding read-ing. Children graduate from our kindergarten program with confidence, social skill, and an understanding of how to learn. They are prepared for their next education experience.
LITTLE GREENTREE HOUSE 118 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago(312) 492-9876littlegreentreehouse.comParents who desire and appre-ciate an eco-friendly, healthy place for children to grow and learn, will feel confident at Little Green Tree House. This multi-million dollar, West Loop child care center uses a creative and theme-based curriculum combined with earth-friendly living. Each child will grow aca-demically as well as socially in a warm, safe and healthy environ-ment that incorporates the best
teachers, organic food, and non-toxic supplies. Reserve a space for your child at www.lit-tlegreentreehouse.com.
LYCEE FRANCAISDE CHICAGO 613 W. Bittersweet Pl., Chicago (773) 665-0066www.lyceechicago.orgWith 550 students representing more than 40 nationalities, the Lycée Français de Chicago pro-vides a unique educational ex-perience. Serving pre-k through 12th grade, we are a private not-for-profit coeducational school offering a dual-language education (French and English). We follow the French National Curriculum and a strong Ameri-can Studies program. We are accredited by the French Minis-try of Education and ISACS. Our students are well prepared to meet the demands of the best universities in North America and Europe.
MISSOURI MILITARY ACADEMY Mexico, MO 65265(573) 581-1776www.missourimilitaryacad-emy.orgMissouri Military Academy’s motto “Look like a Soldier, Act like a Gentleman, Study like a Scholar” encapsulates its mis-sion to prepare young men in grades 6-12 for college and life. The MMA Middle School, concentrates on reading and math skills. Located in Mexico,
Mo., MMA’s boarding and ac-tivities programs offer 11 varsity sports, marching band, drama, Army JROTC, Cadet Chorus, drill team and Boy Scouts. More information or to schedule a campus tour visit www.missou-rimilitaryacademy.org.
MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF CHICAGO1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago(312) 243-0977montessoriacademychicago.org Montessori Academy of Chi-cago educates children ages six weeks to twelve years in a top-rated, activity-based learning environment. A consistently low student-teacher ratio ensures in-dividual attention and a tailored curriculum. A three-year age cycle in classrooms encourages mentoring and collaboration. Highly-experienced, Montes-sori-certified teachers ensure each child’s academic success in a caring and structured envi-ronment supported by a strong community of parents. Now ac-cepting applications for all pro-grams “Infant thru elementary II , serving students ages birth to twelve years old.
MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF ILLINOISPark Ridge / near Des Plaines, Niles(847) 292-1229www.montessoriacademyo-fillinois.comMontessori Academy of Illinois offers: 6:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Year-Round Programs / Toddler, Primary, and Kindergarten / Ag-es 12 Months through 6 Years / Half-Day, School-Hour, and Full-Day / Summer Camp. This school is a partnership between the home and school. The aim is to foster the child’s intellectual growth, independence, respon-sibility, and sense of self-worth. The result of this collaboration is a dynamic community of chil-dren, parents, and school staff committed to the positive de-velopment of each child.
MONTESSORIDE LA CITTA 1501 W. Fullerton, Chicago (773) 348-7340www.montessoridelacitta.comA primary program for chil-dren ages three to six, as well as Spanish, Grace & Courtesy, Field Trips and Special Events. Based on Maria Montessori’s approach to education, our environment operates on the principle of freedom within limits, respect for one’s self, for others and for the environment. Our “whole child approach” to learning allows each child to reach their full potential at their own pace and level. We are a non-profit organization recog-nized by the American Montes-sori Society.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BAKER DEMONSTRATION SCHOOL
74 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSMONTESSORILANGUAGE ACADEMY314 Circle Ave., Forest Park(708) 771-5030www.MontessoriLan-guageAcademy.com Japanese Language Immersion program for children ages 3 to 6 in an authentic Montessori classroom. Children benefit from full range of Montessori curriculum including Math, Sci-ence, Social Studies, Language, Music Literacy and Social Skills while becoming fluent in Japa-nese and English. Daily Eng-lish period in the afternoon reinforces children’s learning experiences and makes sure that they will be ready for the 1st grade. Bilingual education stimulates brain development and enhances children’s cogni-tive advancement. Montessori certified, award winning faculty.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHRIDGE PREP SCHOOL
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan and on the banks of the Crystal River, Leelanau is a small boarding school with limited enrollment. We are able to offer students an individualized approach to academics from our expert faculty and an enriching and structured residential life program that continues beyond the school day. Whether it is in the classroom or the dorm, in the equestrian ring, on the slopes, or volunteering in the community, everything about Leelanau is a life-enriching experience. For over 80 years, The Leelanau School has challenged high school students to reach beyond their acknowledged potential in every aspect of their lives. We offer a rigorous college preparatory curriculum using multi-sensory, experiential, and strength-based methodologies. We offer an approach to education that is excellent for all learners, and critical for those with learning differences. .
2011 Summer Programs:
Summer Academy June 26—July 23
English as a Second Language Institute June 26—Aug 6
Ned Hallowell ADHD Summer Enrichment Camp
July 18—July 22
For more information regarding our Academic Year or our Summer Programs please contact: Kate Auger-Campbell, Director of Admission The Leelanau School One Old Homestead Road Glen Arbor, MI 49636 Phone: 231-334-5800 / 800-533-5262 email: [email protected] www.leelanau.org www.facebook.com/leelanau.school
Beyond textbooks. Through experience. Toward college. With a whole new sense of what’s possible. .
Making the Grade 2011 75A
APPLICATION DEADLINE
The application deadline is January 15, and priority will be given
to those applicants who apply by this date. Qualified applicants
will continue to be accepted if space is available.
2010/2011 SSAT NATIONAL TEST DATES
Woodlands Academy requires applicants to take the Secondary
School Admission Test (SSAT). To register online for an exam,
go to www.ssat.org. Our school code is 8273.
PLAN YOUR SHADOW DAY
Spend the morning (Tuesday – Thursday) with a student
Admission Ambassador, attend three classes, tour our school,
and meet with a member of our Admission team for an interview.
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart, located in Lake Forest,
is an independent, Catholic day and boarding college preparatory
school for young women and a member of the worldwide Sacred
Heart Schools Network. Woodlands promotes academic, artistic,
and athletic excellence, global awareness, social responsibility,
and strong faith. The curriculum includes advanced placement
and honors courses, service opportunities and ESL. Our student/
faculty ratio is 8:1, with 100% college acceptance annually.
Open House for Early Childhood Admission Friday, January 21, 2011, 9 a.m.
Please enter at the Onwentsia Road Entrance.
Now accepting applications for the 2011-2012 school year
School-wide financial assistance available
847-234-2350 • OneOfOne.lfcds.org
145 South Green Bay Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045
Early Childhood
Open House
Ages 2-6
An Early Childhood program that’s one of a kind. Just like your child.
76 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSMOUNT CARMELACADEMY 720 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago(773) 525-8779mountcarmelacademy.org“I am keenly aware that choos-ing an elementary school is one of your most important deci-sions. You want a school that has strong academics, experienced teachers, a warm family envi-ronment, Catholic traditions, a creative fine arts program, en-ergetic sports activities and a diverse student body. Mount Carmel Academy is this school. These qualities make MCA a truly special school and are why I choose to educate my own children at Mount Carmel Acad-emy.” Shane Staszcuk, Principal
MUSIC INSTITUTEOF CHICAGO Music for all ages…learning for life!Downers Grove, Evanston, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Lincolnshire, Northbrook, and Winnetka.(847) 905-1500www.musicinst.orgJoin us for private lessons, group classes, and ensemble experiences for students of all ages and levels of interest and ability. From early childhood music and movement classes to musical theater summer camps for all ages, the Music Institute of Chicago has something for you!
THE NICHOLSON SCHOOL 1700 W. Cortland St., Chicago(312) 493-6044novellanicholsonschool.org The Nicholson School believes children learn through the pow-er of play in environments where they feel safe and confident. Teachers meet each child where he or she is developmentally so they feel comfortable exploring and learning. We believe in the competence of children so our teachers support each child’s learning style and path of in-quiry. Children are encouraged to reason and ask why as they explore concepts including lit-eracy, science, art, numbers and music.
Making the Grade 2011 77A
SCHOOL LISTINGS
NORTH PARKELEMENTARY SCHOOL2017 W. Montrose Ave.Chicago(773) 327-3144www.npeschool.orgNorth Park Elementary School is a private, non-sectarian, K-8 school with a proven record of academic excellence and a community that inspires life-long learning. Through the ac-tive involvement of parents and caring professional staff, NPES fosters self-motivation, self-discipline, and confidence. The school’s balanced curriculum combines traditional instruction with experiential learning to en-sure that the students achieve their maximum potential. All of last year’s graduates are now at-tending one of their top choices for high school.
NORTHRIDGEPREPARATORY SCHOOL8320 Ballard Rd., Niles(847) 375-0600www.NorthridgePrep.orgNorthridge is a college prep school in the northern suburbs of Chicago for young men in grades 6-12. Northridge’s all-male faculty tailors its teaching methods to the unique learning styles of young men. Found-ed in the Catholic tradition, Northridge boasts an award-winning liberal arts curriculum and outstanding opportunities for growth through participa-tion, all with virtue-based focus on personal character. Join us at our Open House on Sunday, February 13 from 2-4 pm.
NORTHSIDE CATHOLIC ACADEMY6216 N. Glenwood Ave,Chicago5525 N. Magnolia Ave.,Chicago(773) 271-4310www.northsidecatholic.orgNCA is the right choice for families who are looking for a challenging curriculum within a nurturing environment. We value small class sizes and dif-ferentiated instruction. We teach Music and Art starting in Preschool and Spanish Lan-guage, P.E. and Computer starting in Kindergarten. We offer a flexible, affordable and stimulating Extended Care and Summer Camp. Our students consistently score high above the national average and our graduates attend Chicago ’s top high schools.
NORTHSIDE DANCE THEATER 7015-17 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago (773) 754-0192www.northsidedt.com NorthSide Dance Theater is Classical Dance Education for the 21st Century. By offering dance classes in the areas of Bal-let, Jazz, Modern, Tap and Hip-Hop and for students of all ages and levels of dance, our goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment for learning, per-forming and enjoying dance. Register now and receive an education that challenges the body and the mind.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GLENHOLME SCHOOL
Educating for Eternity
Academic Excellence in a Christ-Centered
Atmosphere All-Day K-8th
Ask about our Homeschooling
Options for Grades 1-12
For more information call:
(773) 637-8301www.opca.net
3105 N. Oak Park Ave Chicago, IL 60634
Oak Park Christian Academy
NORTHRIDGEP R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O Lcelebrating 35 years of educating young men
OPEN HOUSESunday, February 13 from 2–4 pm
NRP is a college prep school for young men in grades 6–12.
Schedule a Shadow Day:www.NorthridgePrep.org
78 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSNOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 3115 N. Mason Ave., Chicago(773) 622-9494 www.NDHS4Girls.orgA girls’ school at our core, Notre Dame provides a faith-based, technology rich, college prepa-ratory education, in a safe and secure learning environment that invited students to prepare for a future not yet envisioned. Located on the Northwest side of Chicago, we’ve been supply-ing girls with the tools they need to defy stereotypes and break through barriers. We respect their resilience and recognize that they have inherited a rich but complicated world.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. GILES SCHOOL
• Creative crafters clinic• Fun with Puzzles and games• Skill building with
Thematic activities• Hands on science• Basics of drama• Hands on math• Home economics
• Collage of creativity• Historical films and
perspectives• Junior high science clinic• Fine arts• Math enrichment• Polish language
Call us now 773-283-2311 for your personal tour!
5841 W. Strong • Chicago, IL 60630 www.stconstance.org
St. Constance ….a child centered school
Come and see all the things that make St. Constance the best value for a quality Catholic education in Jefferson Park
CHECK OUT NEW PROGRAMS AT ST. CONSTANCE SCHOOL
At St. Constance our culturally diverse dedicated faculty is committed to the development of each student’s academic, spiritual and social growth. Our teachers want to share their passion with our students as we continue to make St. Constance the premiere school in the Jefferson Park area. We have added a new program that consists of a slightly extended school day and the addition of one extra class period per day. The eleven new clinics include a wide range of subjects, all taught by someone currently on the staff:
YOUR CHILDREN DESERVE
The Best Education
Call today to schedule your tour!
Academic excellence
Traditional values
Preschool 3 through 12th Grade
www.schaumburgchristian.com (847) 885-3230 200 N. Roselle Rd
Schaumburg, IL 60194
Making the Grade 2011 79A
SCHOOL LISTINGSOUR LADY OF GRACE SCHOOL 2446 N. Ridgeway Ave.Chicago (773) 342-0170 www.olgchicago.org Dedicated to preparing lifelong learners, we provide a nurturing environment with small classes and caring, degreed teachers. We have a Technology Cen-ter, Computer, Music and P.E. classes, a green playlot, and an extended day program. Our students perform above aver-age and attend Chicago’s top high schools. Our families are very involved. Tuition is afford-able, and we accept Action for Children. Come visit us. See the difference in an education at Our Lady of Grace School.
OUR LADYOF PERPETUAL HELP SCHOOL (OLPH)1123 Church St., Glenview(847) 724-6990www.olph-il.org Founded in 1929, OLPH is the largest Catholic elementary school in the Chicago Arch-diocese. OLPH combines the sacred and the secular for pre-school through eighth grade students by faith formation, service and an outstanding aca-demic education. Before and after school care and all-day kindergarten is available. Well-recognized sports programs, fine & performing arts offerings and school clubs provide every child with an opportunity to identify, express and celebrate a growing Christian faith in their daily lives.
Get your copy today!
Now
Available!
For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com
80 Making the Grade 2011 A
Faith in LearningFrom a Christian Perspective
Chicago Christian Academy5026 W. Diversey Ave, Chicago (773) 205-5102www.chicagochristianacademy.org Robin P. Berryhill, PrincipalGrades Served: PreK-8th grade
Christian Beginnings Preschool and Childcare824 Waukegan Rd. Deerfield, IL 60015(847) [email protected] Olson, Director2 to 6 years/Jr Kindergarten, Kindergarten Enrichment and Summer Camp
Christian Heritage Academy315 Waukegan Rd., Northfield1001 N. Crosby, Chicago(847) 446-5252www.christianheritage.orgRick Lukianuk, J.D., Head of schoolPreK-12th grade, Extended Care
Family Life Program1047 Curtiss St., Downers Grove (630) 968-0527 www.flpreschool.org Cathy Sexton, DirectorPreK - K
Medinah Christian900 Foster Ave.(630) 980-9423www.medinahchristian.orgKen Parris, AdministratorPS-8th Grade
New Day Montessori25W007 75th Street, Naperville(630) 428-13343437 W. Wolf Road, Oswego(630) 551-7894www.newdaymontessori.com
Oak Park Christian Academy3105 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago(773) 637-8301 www.opca.netGreg Chadaranek, Chairman of the Board Grades K - 8
Reformation Christian School14911 E. 127th St., Lemont (708) [email protected] Tameling, Head TeacherK-8th Grade
Roseland Christian314 W 108th St, Chicago(773) 264-2174www.roselandchristian.orgRoger DeGroot, Development DirFull day preschool thru 8th grade
Salem Christian School2018 N. Richmond, Chicago, 60647(773) 227-5580www.salemcs.orgPre-K3 - 8th grade; extended care; two campuses; art, music, Spanish, physical education.
Schaumburg Christian School200 N. Roselle Rd., Schaumburg(847) 885-3230www.schaumbrgchristian.comJim Toth, School AdministratorPreK-12th grade
Southwest Chicago Christian SchoolOak Lawn, Palos Hts, Tinley Pk(708) 388-7656www.swchristian.orgRobert Payne, SuperintendantPreK - 12th grade
Timothy Christian Schools188 W. Butterfield Rd., ElmhurstElementary & Middle School: (630) 833-7575High School Office:(630) 833-7575www.timothychristian.comDr. Dan Van Prooyen, SuperintendentPreschool through High School
Trinity Christian College6601 W. College Dr., Palos Heights(708) 239-4768www.Trnty.edu/adultstudiesAdult studies- Addison, Chicago &Palos Hts. Campuses
Trinity Oaks Christian Academy409 N. 1st St., Cary(847) 462-5971www.trinity-oaks.orgDr. Paul Wrobbel, Head of SchoolMelissa Filippi, Admissions DirectorPreK – 8th
ADVERTISING
Making the Grade 2011 81A
SCHOOL LISTINGSPOPE JOHN XXIII SCHOOL 1120 Washington St., Evanston(847) 475-5678www.popejohn23.orgPope John XXIII School is an award winning school: Na-tional Blue Ribbon School for academic excellence; State of IL award winner for Science Olym-piad and 2010 State spelling bee champion. Our students are winners! Every eighth grad-er completes Algebra, Hon-ors Algebra, ten students will complete Honors Geometry at ETHS; we offer: French, Spanish, or Latin. Special offerings in-clude: computers, multi-media center, music, art, and drama. Every child Preschool to Eighth grade is Learning, Achieving, Believing!
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BRITISH SCHOOL OF CHICAGO
Serving Ages 2-6 years, 7am-6pm; After School, 7-12 years
www.lakefrontchildrensacademy.com Education Classes Featuring:
FIRST EVEREarthworks Integrated Preschool
Science ProgramOffering the only certified preschool
Musikgarten program in ChicagoOffering private piano lessons
Computer Science, Reading, Math and MORE!
400 East Randolph Street Suite 6B Chicago Conveniently located across from a Chicago Park District Playground
Monitored classrooms for security
312.819.1760 fax 312.819.1763
email [email protected]
95% of our graduates
are accepted at private, classical, and gifted schools!
Providing:
Hot mealsLanguagesIndoor Play
Area
ToddlersPreschool
Kindergarten
LA
RG
EST
CHIL
D CARE C
ENTE
RS •
2002 •
BESTCHILDCARE
CENTERS
82 Making the Grade 2011 A
OPEN HOUSE FEATURING OUR
TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE
January 30th 11AM -1PM
May 19th 5PM -7PM
CHOOSE ST. FERDINAND CATHOLIC SCHOOL YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE IS WORTH IT
· State Accredited· 1:17 Teacher Student Ratio· Full day PreK3 -4 & Kindergarten
· Before & After School Care· Open Enrollment· Financially affordable
A FAITH BASED TECHNOLOGY RICH EDUCATION
IN A SAFE AND SECURE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
St. Ferdinand School 3131 N. Mason Ave. · Chicago, IL 60634
773-622-3022 · www.saintferdinand.org/school
Notre Dame High School for Girls 3115 N. Mason Ave. · Chicago, IL 60634 773-622-9494 · www.NDHS4Girls.org
DARE TO BE WIDELY SUCCESSFUL
A FAITH BASED TECHNOLOGY RICH, COLLEGE PREPRATORY
IN A SAFE AND SECURE LEARNING
ENVIRONMENT
INFORMING for HIGHER achievement; TRANSFORMING for the HIGHEST triumph.
2018 N. Richmond Phone: 773-227-5580 Fax: 773-227-8592 www.salemcs.org
Find us on FACEBOOK
Making the Grade 2011 83A
SCHOOL LISTINGSQUEEN OF ALLSAINTS SCHOOL 6230 N. Lemont Ave., Chicago(773) 736-0567www.qasparish.orgQueen of All Saints School is dedicated to promoting the spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical development of the young child-learner. Serv-ing students from early child-hood (3 year olds) through 8th grade. Staffed by dynamic and caring professionals, Queen of All Saints School is creative and vibrant Catholic community—where Values Are For Life.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GUERIN PREP SCHOOL
6032 - 8th Ave. Kenosha, WI 262.654.4200 www.armitageacademy.org
Kindergarten at $6,695 1st through 8th at $8,000.
Armitage Academy is an indepedent
K-8 private school located just over the
Illinois/Wisconsin border. We offer a
liberal arts approach that concentrates
on the whole education of a child.
A high quality education
at an affordable price.
A cademic excellence.
R ecognizing every child's talents.
M usic, art and french.
I nstilling curiosity & critical thinking.
T heater, dance and drama.
A ffordable.
G uiding children towards success.
E ducation at it's best.
A cademic excellence.
R ecognizing every child's talents
Come see us, we're closer than you think.
1975 - 2010
ST. BARTHOLOMEW SCHOOL
Generations of Faith, Rooted in Excellence
www.StBartsSchool.net
Montessori Pre-K through Grade 8
Winner of the 2010/2011 Croghan
and Cardinal’s Awards!
84 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSQUEEN OF ANGELS SCHOOL 4520 N. Western Ave., Chicago (773) 769-4211 queenofangelschicago.org At Queen of Angels, we nurture our students’ wonder, curiosity and faith in the world, instilling a love of learning that will last a lifetime. Our students develop sound academic skills, criti-cal thinking skills and an abil-ity to learn independently and cooperatively through a rich academic curriculum. Each day is designed to bring new excitement and opportunities to engage in learning in a safe, child-centered environment.
QUEST ACADEMY 500 N. Benton St., Palatine(847) 202-8035www.questacademy.orgQuest Academy is an Inde-pendent School educating and nurturing gifted students from Preschool through Eighth Grade. We offer a liberal arts curriculum that challenges and inspires gifted children along
with character education and service learning. Small classes allow for teachers to meet the individual needs of our stu-dents through differentiation and individualized learning plans. All of our classrooms use state of the art SmartBoard technology along with laptops for Third through Eighth Grade classrooms.
RESURRECTIONCOLLEGE PREPHIGH SCHOOL 7500 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago(773) 775-6616, Ext 129www.reshs.orgResurrection is the largest Cath-olic college prep high school for young women on the northwest side of Chicago, serving a di-verse student population of ap-proximately 700 students from the city and suburbs. Resurrec-tion offers rigorous academics and a wide variety of clubs and athletics in a faith-based, single-gender environment. Visit our website at www.reshs.org or call 773.775.6616 Ext 129.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FENWICK HIGH SCHOOL
w w w. s m a r t l o v e p r e s ch o o l . o r g
773.665.8052 • [email protected]
ENROLL TODAY!Rolling Admissions for Preschool • Parent and Toddler Programs
Smart Love Preschool Offers:• Half-day preschool for 3, 4, & 5 year-olds
• Parent and Toddler Explorations (Age 12 months to 4 years)–Morning Classes
• Smart Love Philosophy and Curriculum
• A beautiful mansion setting in Chicago’s historic North Side Buena Park neighborhood
• Large outdoor space, including play area and children’s garden
Making the Grade 2011 85A
SCHOOL LISTINGSRESURRECTIONPRE-SCHOOL 3309 N. Seminary, Chicago (773) 525-0605www.rlclakeview.org With the foundation that chil-dren construct knowledge through their play and through real experiences, Resurrection Pre-school offers an enjoyable, half-day session, 4 days per week for 3 to 5-year-olds. Our play-based program has been in existence for 40 years. We of-fer a Wednesday morning tod-dler program for 2 yr. olds with their parent/caregiver. In Fall of 2011, we begin early drop off and extended care. Fam-ily Open House, Sat., Feb.5th , 2011 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Contact [email protected] for reservations.
ROGERS PARKMONTESSORI 1800 W Balmoral, Chicago (773) 271-1700www.rpmschool.orgRPMS believes that all of its students carry within them the adults they will become; our mission is to create an envi-ronment where all children are inspired to reach their highest potential, as individuals and learners, following the Montes-sori philosophy of education; which at its core is to produce vital members of the global community. Guiding all our practices is the education and promotion of peace within self, in relationships and within the world.
NOW ENROLLING FOR WINTER CLASSES!
86 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSROYCEMORE SCHOOL640 Lincoln St., Evanston(847) 866-6055www.roycemoreschool.orgRoycemore School has been committed to ensuring the per-sonal success of each student since 1915. Students thrive in a college-preparatory environ-ment that is focused on their individual talents and needs. Roycemore celebrates a blend of cultures and interests with families from Evanston, Chica-go and suburbs. Qualified Up-per School students may take classes at nearby Northwest-ern University at no additional charge. 100% of graduates are accepted to colleges across the country. Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12.
SACRED HEART SCHOOLS6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago(773) 262-4446www.shschicago.org Independent, Catholic, K-8. Ed-ucating Chicago children since 1876. A Chicago landmark on
Lake Michigan, Sacred Heart Schools enroll 690 day students and are part of a Network of 150 Sacred Heart Schools in 30 countries. Kindergarten is coeducational. In Grades 1-8, Sacred Heart offers single gen-der classes in a co-ed environ-ment. In addition to a rigorous academic curriculum, Sacred Heart Schools is dedicated to a values-based program con-cerned with the education of the whole child.
SAINT ANDREW SCHOOL 1710 W. Addison, Chicago(773) 248-2500Saint Andrew is a Catholic school providing an atmosphere of ac-ademic excellence to children in preschool- 8th grade. Experi-enced and dedicated teachers educate students with an em-phasis on academic and tech-nological skills while nurturing creativity through art, music and literature. The intellectual de-velopment and spiritual growth provided by Saint Andrew are enhanced by a socially diverse
MONTESSORIDE LA CITTA
(Montessori of the City)
1501 W. Fullerton in Lincoln ParkAges 3-6
CALL OR CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR OPEN HOUSE INFORMATION
773-348-7340www.montessoridelacitta.com
"Education should no longer be mostly imparted knowledge, but must take a new path, seeking the release of human potential."
- Maria Montessori
Children’s Workshops in Art and Creativity (Pre-K through Grade 6)
Middle School Program (Grades 7 and 8)
Courses begin February 12!
At the School of the Art Institute of
Chicago, kids explore art, design, and
creativity, learning to discover and
imagine in their own unique ways.
Register Now!312.899.7458 | www.saic.edu/cs
Making the Grade 2011 87A
SCHOOL LISTINGSenvironment that reflects the strength of a vibrant parish. School tours: 2nd Tuesday of the month at 9am. Call for reser-vations and information.
ST. BARTHOLOMEW SCHOOL 4941 W. Patterson, Chicago(773) 282-9373StBartsSchool.netSaint Bartholomew Elemen-tary School and Montessori Preschool is dedicated to pro-viding a well-rounded, faith-based education for children in preschool through grade eight. We offer an affordable Montes-sori Preschool for ages 3-5, and a full academic curriculum. We include art, music, gym, com-puter science, and Spanish lan-guage classes. Extracurricular activities include service op-portunities and clubs as well as an outstanding sports program. High test scores propel our graduates on to Chicago’s top schools high schools.
ST. CLEMENT SCHOOL2524 N. Orchard, Chicago(773) 348-8212www.stclementschool.orgServing the diverse and vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, St. Clement is a parish school rooted in Catholic traditions of Christian service and global awareness. Our core curriculum is enhanced with daily Spanish instruction and an emphasis on small group learning. Addi-tional activities include before and after school care, brownies, girl scouts, cub scouts, enrich-ment classes and interscholas-tic sports.
SAINT CONSTANCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5841 W. Strong St., Chicago(773) 283-2311www.stconstance.orgAn Investment for the Future. The Right Choice for Today. St. Constance School provides a dedicated and professional faculty committed to the de-velopment of each student’s academic, spiritual and social
growth. With the skills, values and knowledge acquired, our students will become respect-ful, responsible and capable citizens embracing life-long learning. Some of our new clin-ics: creative crafters, fun with puzzles and games, skill build-ing with thematic activities, hands on science, basics.
ST. EDWARD 4343 W. Sunnyside, Chicago(773) 736-9133www.stedwardschool.com St. Edward School provides a quality, faith-based Catholic ed-ucation to children from three year old pre-school through eighth grade. Academic excel-lence is enhanced by enrich-ment activities which provide students additional avenues to develop their own unique tal-ents. St. Edward offers full and part time pre-school, full and half-day kindergarten, comput-er education, hands on learn-ing, accelerated reading and special needs math and reading program, as well as a full sports program and exemplary music instruction.
ST. FERDINAND SCHOOL 3131 N. Mason Ave., Chicago(773) 622-3022www.saintferdinand.org/schoolSaint Ferdinand School is com-mitted to providing a faith based, technology rich educa-tion in a safe and secure learning environment. The dedication and partnership of our teach-ers and parents provide prime ingredients that help students excel. We recognize the need to adapt to an ever-changing world, we constantly update strategies, technology, and cur-ricula to offer our students the tools that will help them realize their potential.
N P E SNorth Park Elementary School
COMMUNITY A C O M M U N I T Y I N S P I R I N GL I F E L O N G L E A R N I N G
GRADES K-8
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL
NURTURING COMMUNITY
REASONABLE TUITION
LOW STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO
HANDS-ON LEARNING
SPANISH, ART, MUSIC, DRAMA, TECHNOLOGY, PHYSICAL EDUCATION
NPES admits qualified students without regard to race, religion, or national or ethnic origin.
2 0 1 7 W . M O N T R O S E A V E . C H I C A G O , I L 6 0 6 1 8 | 7 7 3 . 3 2 7 . 3 1 4 4 | W W W . N P E S C H O O L . O R G
88 Making the Grade 2011 A
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Specıal ParentCHICAGO
An empowerment guide from
Chicago ParentSUMMER 2010
647 resources to help
Eating made easy
Almost identical
When one twin has special needs
Twice a Year
Making the Grade 2011 89A
SCHOOL LISTINGSST. GABRIELCATHOLIC SCHOOL 607 W. 45th St., Chicago(773) 268-6636www.saintgabes.comThis 125 year old PK-8 school opened in 1881 and is located in the heart of the Canaryville. Since its opening, St. Gabriel has provided a “first class” edu-cation for its students and small class sizes enable students to obtain individualized instruc-tion. In addition to its strong academic program, the school offers an outstanding athletic program; students participate on winning teams in football, basketball, baseball, volleyball and cheerleading. Also, each 6-8th grader is assigned school issued laptops.
ST. JAMESLUTHERAN SCHOOL 2101 N. Fremont St., Chicago(773) 525.4990www.stjames-lutheran.orgAs the oldest, continuously operating school in the city of Chicago, St. James has been preparing students for suc-cess in Chicago’s premier high schools since 1857. We serve students in preschool – eighth grade by providing an educa-tion that embraces academic excellence, spiritual growth and moral integrity. Our students thrive in a learning environment that includes differentiated in-struction, individualized goal setting and adult modeling of Christ-like behavior. Call today to schedule a tour!
90 Making the Grade 2011 A
Chicago’s only local magazine and
resource guide to life for families who
have children with special needs.
For more information, call (708) 386-5555
or visit ChicagoParent.com
distributed in early intervention specialist
resource directory online at ChicagoParent.com
Specıal ParentCHICAGO
A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE
ChicagoParent.com | Specıal Parent CHICAGO Summer 2010
MY LIFE
Family, special needs and love BY JENNIFER WHEELER
When I left my ex-husband many
years ago to take my children to
a happier place and a safer life,
my sister said to me, “Are you sure you
want to do this? Nobody will ever love
you again because of all that you’ve got
going on.” And while I couldn’t quite
believe that she had actually said those
words to me, I knew perfectly well what
she meant. What I’ve “got going on” are
three sons with special needs and I knew
that there was a very good chance that
nobody would ever love all of us.
Well, guess what? I met someone
and this someone does love all of us, in
exactly the ways we’ve always wanted to
be loved. He loves my steadfast nature
and my fierce fight for right, and he
loves my sons and their challenges and
victories. I love my life but, as compli-
cated and difficult as it can be, I do not
know if I would have signed up for it
had I been given all of the information in
advance. But the man I love knows all,
sees all, hears all, and he has volunteered
anyway—freely, willingly, forever.
We are getting married and moving
into his house, a house he already shares
with his four children. If you do the math,
we will have seven children altogether.
People call us the “Brady Bunch, plus
one,” although with six boys and one
girl, we have thrown off Mike and Carol’s
gender curve just a bit.
We have one thing the Bradys never
had—kids with special needs. Before our
families met, I was terrified that things
might not go well and I would lose the love
of my life forever. How could we blend his
four children who are academic high-
achievers, athletically gifted and socially
set, with my three children who have
challenges at school, could care less about
sports and need extra help to socialize?
All I needed to do was trust the
children. They knew all they needed to
know—that all kids love to be loved and
all kids love to play. My kids can’t get
enough of my fiance’s children. They
admire them and marvel at their video
game skills. And my sons’ new siblings
also like Pop-Tarts and hot dogs, so it’s
all good as far as they are concerned. My
fiance’s children have taught me the most
valuable lesson of all: Just give kids the
information and they will know what to
do with it. Answer their questions, tell
them the truth and they will demonstrate
compassion and understanding in
abundance.
So when we told them we were getting
married (there was cheering) and that we
would all be living together as a family
and the kids just marched happily onward,
I was a little surprised. My panic was for
nothing. Special needs was a non-issue.
There was nothing wrong with finding
love again or becoming a family. The kids
already knew that. Now I’m not saying
there won’t be any need for therapy down
the road (been there, done that), but I
trust my new family. I trust the children.
We will all take care of one another.
Now if only we had an Alice to do all
of our laundry …
Photo by Jason Geil
Rich Wood and Jennifer Wheeler with their kids (standing) Noah, Nicholas, Nathan
and Abbi Wood and (seated) Wheeler, Tripp and Tate Morrison.
MY LIFE
FamspeneeanBY JENNI
Why
my siste
want to
you aga
going o
believewordsshe mthreethat tnobo
Wand exacbe landlovviccaknhasa
lP rent Summer 2010 | ChicagoParent.com
Alexandra Kales was 4 when she had
a life-threatening reaction to peanut
butter. That day was life altering
for the whole family, says her mom Jenny
Kales of La Grange Park. “Everything you
do now is changed, with regard to any-
thing involving food.”
For families who have children with
dietary restrictions, such as a gluten
intolerance or food allergies, a simple
trip to the grocery store can take hours as
parents are forced to read every label. But
in response to the growing number of chil-
dren who require a specialized diet, more
restaurants, bakeries and specialty grocery
stores are cropping up to fill the need.
“In 2004 (when Alexandra was diag-
nosed), there wasn’t anything like this, but
now parents have a few more options than
I had early on,” says Kales, who as author
of nut-freemom.blogspot.com shares infor-
mation with other parents about options
for their children.
Peter DeRousee also has children with
life-threatening allergies and Celiac dis-
ease, so he knows firsthand what families
are looking for when they head to his store,
Free From Market, which opened last year
and specializes in everything to do with
allergies. “What’s different (about this
store) is that there are eight common aller-
gens responsible for most allergies, so there
are little icons on all the foods indicating
Managing kids’ food restrictions is becoming easier BY LIZ DECARLOCatering to special diets
6/25/2010 12:
Specıal ParentCHICAGO
An empowerment guide from
Chicago ParentSUMMER 2010
647 resources to help
Eating made easy
Almost identical
When one twin has special needsSpring 2011
Edition coming soon!
Making the Grade 2011 91A
SCHOOL LISTINGSST. JOSAPHAT SCHOOL2245 N. Southport Ave.Chicago(773) 549-0909www.stjosaphat.netIn Lincoln Park, St. Josaphat School serves families who want more for their children: a comprehensive pre-school-8th grade education embraces diversity, encourages spiritual growth, and prepares lifelong learners. Individualized instruc-tion. Low student-teacher ratio. Rigorous core curriculum en-hanced with technology, Span-ish (PK-8), music, art, physical education, boys’ & girls’ sports teams. Honors, off-campus re-treats, after-school enrichment classes, extended day program AM/PM. Miss Colleen Cannon, Principal. Tours, call 773-549-0909.
ST. JOHN’SLUTHERAN SCHOOL 4939 W. Montrose Ave.Chicago(773) 736-1196www.SaintJohnsChicago.orgWant to hear how to prepare your child for the top high schools, see your student excel in core subjects? Get an edge in life? Ask about our quality pro-grams: foreign languages (2), music (handbells, choirs, band, musicals), phys-ed (health, sports programs, recess), extra-curricular activities, extended care hours, and more. Come see our 10,000 volume library, bowl-ing alley, playgrounds, and labs (computers, science) – “God’s Love in Action”: A great way to raise a child – since 1876.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FOX RIVER COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
09090909.
We are Chicago’s first Quaker school offering a progressive, academically rigorous and socially responsible curriculum. Quaker schools and colleges are built up on the foundation that students’ quality of character - what kind of people they are becoming - is as important to their lives and to the world as their intellectual growth.
• Pre-K (age 4)* through 3rd grade in 2011, expanding to 8th grade. • Values-based learning environment that nurtures the spirit and values all faith traditions • A developmental approach to children and learning • Preparing students to be citizens of the world • Small, multiage classes • Daily outdoor recess
*We offer a half-day, play-based Pre-K with a full day option For more information, visit our web site,
or contact us at: www.ChicagoFriendsSchool.org Email: [email protected]
773-442-2371
Learn more about the advantages of a Quaker education: www.friendscouncil.org
409 North First Street, Cary, IL (847)462-5971 | www.trinity-oaks.org
IMAGINE SCHOLASTIC
EXCELLENCE In a world of diminished
academic standards imagine an educational environment that both
enlightens the mind and nurtures the heart.
92 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSST. MARK PRESCHOOL 200 S. Willie, Mt. Prospect(847) 253-0631www.stmarkmp.orgSt. Mark Preschool has been teaching children for over 50 years. Our philosophy is to encourage the growth of the whole child; physically, intellec-tually, emotionally, socially and creatively in a Christian environ-ment. Daily routines allow chil-dren to create, discover, interact and learn concepts through hands-on experiences. We are proud to offer new programs such as lunch bunch, kinder-garten enrichment and all day care. Visit us at our Open House January 29th 10am – 12pm.
ST. PETERLUTHERAN SCHOOL111 W. Olive St.Arlington Heights(847) 253-6638www.stpeter-ah.orgSt. Peter Lutheran has provided an outstanding Christian edu-cation experience for over 150 years in the northwest suburbs. Our mission is to Nurture, Edu-cate, Witness, and Serve as we lead our students and families to a full life in Christ. We offer a Before and After School Care Program and a varied extracur-ricular program involving sports for grades 5 -8, Band for grades 4-8, and after school activities in French, crafts, technology and music. Strong active parent in-volvement round out a St. Peter experience. Join us!
ST. PHILIPLUTHERAN SCHOOL 2500 West Bryn Mawr, Chicago(773) 561-3044www.stphiliplutheran.comAt St. Philip, we focus on the well-being of the whole child. Our teachers model Christian morals, teach academically challenging subject matter, and assist in the development of student social skills. Teach-ing to the whole child prepares students for the dynamic world around them. Serving students from two years to 8th grade on the north side of Chicago for 74 years. Contact Mrs. Tennis, Prin-cipal, for more information.
ST. ROBERTBELLARMINE SCHOOL6036 W. Eastwood, Chicago (773) 725-5133www.srb-chicago.org St. Robert Bellarmine has been providing the Jefferson–Portage Park area with a vibrant Catho-lic elementary education since 1931. Our curriculum address-es the needs of the total child: spiritual, emotional, academic, physical and social. Information about Tiny Tots for 2 year olds, Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds, and our exceptional K–8 educa-tion is available at srb-chicago.org or by contacting Carrie Mijal, Principal, at [email protected] or 773-725-5133. NEW Summer Program coming in 2011!
SALEM CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2018 N. Richmond, Chicago (773) 227-5580www.salemcs.org Salem Christian School, a min-istry of New Life Covenant, is a Pre-K3 thru 8th grade school located in the Humboldt Park/Logan Square communities. We are committed to rigorous academics while balancing our program with art, music, Span-ish, dance, and physical educa-tion. Our faculty have embraced their callings and are dedicated to instilling a Christian world-view and developing servants who both STAND and SPEAK. Open from 6 am until 6 pm and offer a full summer program.
SAUGANASHMONTESSORI SCHOOL 5750 N. Rogers Ave. Chicago(773) 545-6295sauganashmontessori.com Sauganash Montessori School offers exceptional early child-hood education set in a warm, home-like atmosphere, for chil-dren three to six years of age. Our mission is to cultivate the child's natural desire to learn and provide the child with a prepared environment in which they may freely explore the world around them. Sauganash Montessori School students ex-perience the excitement of dis-covery and are motivated by a love for knowledge. Please visit www.sauganashmontessori.com.
SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO (SAIC) 37 S. Wabash Ave; Suite 711Chicago (312) 899-7458www.saic.edu/artcampswww.saic.edu/ecpAt SAIC we believe that nurtur-ing creative potential stands at the center of preparing chil-dren for life. Our Children’s Workshops and Middle School Program offer spring week-end courses and summer day camps. Our Early College Pro-gram (ECP) for high school students offers art, design, and creative writing courses where students can build skills, devel-op a strong portfolio for college admission, and earn college credit. ECP offers spring week-end courses and a variety of summer course options.
SCIENCE & ARTSACADEMY 1825 Miner Street, Des Plaines(847) 827-7880scienceandartsacademy.orgAn independent, non-denom-inational, co-educational, fully-accredited, not-for-profit day school, PreK – 8th grade. SAA provides a stimulating environ-ment in which intellectually or creatively gifted children can realize and learn to celebrate their full academic and artistic potential. The Academy offers small class sizes and innova-tive programs with significant emphasis on the core classes of science, math, language arts, and social studies as well as the fine arts. Call for a tour or visit our Open House on Saturday, February 5th.
THE SECOND CITY YOUTH PROGRAM 1608 N. Wells St., Chicago (312) 664-3959www.secondcity.com/kidsParticipating students explore the world of improvisation, sketch, stand-up and acting through exercises that develop stage presence, creativity, com-munication skills, patience and self confidence. Classes are available for ages 2-18 and most end with a brief class dem-onstration. Summer camps and intensives are also available. www.secondcity.com/kids
SINAI PRESCHOOL15 W. Delaware Pl., Chicago(312) 867-7000chicagosinai.org/preschool/basics.cfmSinai Preschool is a NAEYC ac-credited program, serving chil-dren aged 12 months to 5 years in 1, 2, 3 or 5 day classes. We provide a fun-filled, play-based learning environment designed to promote cognitive, social and emotional growth. Teachers are highly qualified and nurturing and all lead teachers have Mas-ter’s degrees. Children matricu-late to all private, parochial and public schools in the Chicago area. We are a neighborhood school serving children of all races, religions and ethnic ori-gins in a Jewish setting.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE FOREST COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
Making the Grade 2011 93A
Learning Through PlayLearning Through PlayIntroduction to Preschool ProgramIntroduction to Preschool Program
Curriculum and ApproachCurriculum and Approach
Building confidence and security in children who need Building confidence and security in children who need extra support in a classroom settingextra support in a classroom setting
Communication, preCommunication, pre--academic, social skills, play skills, academic, social skills, play skills, and selfand self--regulationregulation
Focus on art and music using strong and simple cues for Focus on art and music using strong and simple cues for guidanceguidance
Small class format: 2Small class format: 2--toto--1 student1 student--toto--teacher ratioteacher ratio
Learning Through Play Center for Child Development
633 West Addison Chicago, IL 60613Tel: 312-458-9865
Sign up now online: www.pediatricresources.org
Building speech and social skillsfor children ages 3-4 years
community
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museums
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travelWeekend Edition
CCPP rrEEwwwaarrddss
...and much more!
Visit us today.
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94 Making the Grade 2011 A
SCHOOL LISTINGSSMART LOVEPRESCHOOL 800 W. Buena, Chicago(773) 665-8052www.smartlovepreschool.orgThe Natalie G. Heineman Smart Love Preschool is based on Smart Love, a uniquely effective parenting and child develop-ment philosophy. Open enroll-ment is available for children ages 3,4 and 5 for half-day pro-grams. The preschool features a curriculum that places equal emphasis on strengthening children’s social and emotional health and preparing children for academic success. Preschool offerings include a New Mom’s group and Toddler Explora-tions!, a parent and tot class for children 12 – 36 months.
SOLOMON SCHECHTER DAY SCHOOL OFMETROPOLITANCHICAGOCampuses in Skokieand NorthbrookAdministrative Office: 3210 Dundee Rd., Northbrook(847) 412-5654www.schechter.orgFor nearly 50 years, Solomon Schechter Day School has de-livered an unmatched general and Judaic studies education to Jewish children from 30 communities throughout the Chicago area. Every day at Schechter, gifted educators ig-nite our students’ Jewish souls, educate them to their highest potential, and empower them to use their knowledge, creativ-ity and skills to enrich our world. We would love to welcome you to our Schechter community. Call today to schedule a visit: 847.412.5654.
SOLON BILINGUAL PREP AND SOLON GREEK SCHOOL(773) 561-5992stdemetrios.il.goarch.orgEducating Children for over 80 years! You do not need to be Greek to take advantage of the opportunities that a Greek-English education will open for your child. We offer a strong curriculum in both languages
for Preschool and Kindergarten that will leave your child well prepared to continue on to ele-mentary school and beyond. All this and more in a family friendly environment too. Our children also continue on to Solon Greek School to prepare for college credit in foreign language! Call for a tour and meet our satisfied parents...Come in and take a closer look!
THE SUZUKI-ORFF SCHOOL OF MUSIC 1148 W. Chicago Ave.Chicago(312) 738-2646www.suzukiorff.orgThe Suzuki-Orff School of Music provides quality music educa-tion at our on-site school and education through music in Chi-cago Public Schools with Proj-ect IMAGE®, a sequential music program for grades 1-8, and our literacy-through-music pro-gram, Clap, Sing and READ!® for grades K-2. Onsite instruc-tion begins at 6-months old in our acclaimed early childhood program, BabySTEPS®. Suzuki and traditional music instruc-tion is offered in violin, viola, cello, flute, guitar, piano and voice. Enroll today!
TOTAL CHILDPRESCHOOL &CHILDCARE CENTER 516 Church St., Evanston(847) 864-7100www.totalchild.orgThe mission of Total Child Pre-school & Childcare Center is to provide quality, affordable early childhood education while reflecting a commitment to embrace and respect eco-nomic, cultural, and religious diversity as a positive value to be nurtured in our children, our community, and the world. Our goal is to provide a nurturing, inclusive environment where we work with parents to encour-age children as they develop in a manner consistent with their unique learning style.
IS IN PROGRESS NOW!
CLASSES OFFERED YEAR-ROUND
Making the Grade 2011 95A
SCHOOL LISTINGSTRINITY CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Adult Studies Programs Main Campus: Palos HeightsOff-site locations for education program: Addison & Chicago(708) 239-4768adultstudies.trnty.eduTrinity Christian College offers accelerated degree-completion programs. With classes meeting only one night per week, the Adult Studies program is a con-venient alternative for working adults who want to complete their education without sacrific-ing time on the job or with their families. Students apply their existing college credit and fin-ish their education or business degree in two years. Trinity’s affordable tuition, accelerated classes, and evening format are a good fit for most adult stu-dents.
TRINITY OAKSCHRISTIAN ACADEMY 409 N. First, Cary(847) 462-5971 www.trinity-oaks.org
Trinity Oaks Christian Academy provides a positive learning experience for children pre-school through 8th grade. The curriculum is designed to meet student’s spiritual, physical, and academic needs. Our preschool and pre-kindergarten programs provide developmental appro-priate activities and prepare students for kindergarten. We offer both half and full-day kindergarten programs. All students receive education in Bible, Spanish, music, art, art appreciation, math and science. We also offer a variety of extra-curricular activities including team sports.
THE WILLOWSACADEMY 1012 Thacker St., Des Plaines(847) 824-6900www.willows.orgA distinctive school in the Cath-olic Tradition for girls in grades 6 through 12, The Willows Academy offers challenging academics coupled with ample opportunities for participation in athletics, the arts, and com-munity involvement. All classes
are held at the Honors, Acceler-ated or AP level. Students are challenged to achieve excel-lence in all they do, from the classroom to the stage or the athletic field! For more informa-tion, please call or visit our web site.
WOODLANDSACADEMY OF THESACRED HEART 760 E. Westleigh Rd.Lake Forest(847) 234-4300www.woodlandsacademy.orgWoodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart is an indepen-dent, Catholic day and board-ing college preparatory school for young women. A member of the worldwide Sacred Heart Schools Network, Woodlands promotes academic, artistic and athletic excellence, global awareness, social responsibility, and strong faith. The curriculum includes advanced placement and honors courses, service opportunities and ESL. Diverse community of 160 includes stu-dents from several countries
and 35 Illinois communities. Student/faculty ratio is 8:1, with 100% college acceptance an-nually.
YOUNG WOMEN’S LEADERSHIPCHARTER SCHOOL2641 S. Calumet Ave., Chicago(312) 949-9400, ext. 100 www.ywlcs.orgThe Young Women’s Leader-ship Charter School (YWLCS) inspires 7th-12th grade urban girls to engage in rigorous col-lege preparatory learning in a small school that is focused on math, science and technology and that nurtures their self-con-fidence and challenges them to achieve. The collaboration and focus single-sex education provides, combined with com-mitted staff members and small classroom sizes, guarantees that YWLCS young women graduate from high school and go on to post-secondary options of their choice.
4939 W Montrose Call 773- 736- 1196
www.StJohnsChicago.org Summer Ofc Hrs. 9:00 am 4:00 pm
Ask us about:
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Need Affordable Quality Education?We have the quality Christian Education
your student needs.
20% Tuition DiscountAre you an active member at a Christian Church? Call today to see how to qualify!
——$500 New Family Discount—— Present this coupon and receive a $500 tuition credit!
(registration & deposit required — new families only — one per family)
Visit us at 4939 W. Montrose Ave. See www.StJohnsChicago.org/openhouse.asp, or Call 773 -736- 1196 today to arrange your tour!
96 Making the Grade 2011 A
A Fairytale Ballet ......................................85AIMS Association of Illinois
Montessori Schools ..........Outside BackAkiba-Schechter Day School ..................72Ancona School .........................................72Archdiocese of Chicago ...............Cover CArmitage Academy ..................................83Baker School.............................................47Banner Preschool .....................................53Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School ...39Bethesda Lutheran School .......................7Brehm Preparatory School ......................76Brickton Montessori School ...................71British School of Chicago .........................9Catherine Cook School .............................4Center for Talent Development .............67CHALK Preschool .................... Inside BackCherry Preschool......................................66Chiaravalle Montessori ...........................24Chicago Friends School ..........................91Chicago Grammar School ......................37Chicago International
Charter School ...........................Cover DChicago Jewish Day School ...................57Chicago Montessori School ...................24Chicago Virtual Charter School .............59Chicago Waldorf School .........................42Chicagoland Jewish High School ..........60Christian Beginnings ...............................13Christian Heritage Academy ..................34Club Z-Charick Corp. .................................6Concordia Place .......................................53Creative Learning Montessori School ...38Cybershala ................................................86Daystar School .........................................40Deerfield Park District .............................45Dr. Bills Learning Center .........................48Einstein Academy ....................................52Families Together
Cooperative Nursery ...........................52Fenwick High School ...............................31Fourth Presbyterian Day School.............31Fox River Country Day School ................22
Frances Xavier Warde Schools ...............35Francis Parker School ..............................26Gan Shalom Early Childhood Ed. Ctr. ...45Gateway Montessori School ...................60Glenholme School, The...........................16Green Room, The .....................................28Guardian Angel Orthodox School .........67Howe School, The .......................... Cover AIllinois Mathematics and
Science Academy ................................28Immaculate Conception School ............54Immaculate Conception School ............70It Takes a Village .......................................68Jerusalem Lutheran School ....................56JUF Scholarship Program .......................36Kumon .......................................................11Lake Forest Country Day .........................75Lakefront Childrens Academy ................81Language Stars ........................................12Latin School ..............................................36Learning Through Play ............................93Leelanau School .......................................74Lincoln Park Prepatory & Kindergarten ...9Lincoln Park Preschool ..............................9Little Green Tree House Preschool ........13Lycee Francais ..........................................22Missouri Military Academy .......................4Montessori Academy Chicago ...............14Montessori Academy of Illinois ..............69Montessori de la Citta .............................86Montessori Language Academy ............18Mt. Carmel Academy ... Inside Front CoverMusic Institute Chicago ..........................50Nicholson School, The ............................46North Park Elementary School ...............87Northridge Preparatory ...........................77Northside Catholic Academy .................41Northside Dance Theater .......................62Notre Dame High School .......................82Oak Park Christian Academy ..................77Our Lady of Grace School ......................18Our Lady of Perpetual Help School ........2Pope John XXIII School ...........................49
Queen of All Saints School .....................30Queen of Angels ......................................89Quest Academy .......................................61Resurrection College Prep H.S. ..............31Resurrection Lutheran Preschool ...........42Rogers Park Montessori School .............41Roycemore School ...................................25Sacred Heart School ................................26Salem Christian School ...........................82Sauganash Montessori School ...............65School of The Art Institute (SAIC) ... 50, 86Science & Arts Academy .........................24Second City, The ......................................94Sinai Preschool .........................................50Smart Love Preschool ..............................84Solomon Schecter Day School of
Metropolitan Chicago ...........................1Solon Greek School ...................................7St. Andrew School ...................................44St. Bartholomew School ..........................83St. Clement School ..................................32St. Constance ............................................78St. Edward School ......................................6St. Ferdinand ............................................82St. Gabriel .................................................38St. James Lutheran School......................62St. John's Lutheran School .....................95St. Josaphat School .................................27St. Mark Preschool ...................................81St. Peter Lutheran School ........................58St. Philip Lutheran School .......................66St. Robert ........................................... 40, 64Suzuki-Orff School of Music ...................71The Center for Gifted .................... Cover BTotal Child Preschool and
Childcare Center .................................12Trinity Oaks Christian Academy .............91Village Academy ......................................68Willows, The ..............................................35Woodlands Academy
of the Sacred Heart .............................75Young Women's Leadership
Charter School .....................................59
MakingtheGrade
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