Crain's Content Studio by crainschicago

SPONSORED CONTENT

Welcome to Crain's 10th annual Private School Planner, which is packed with intel on great private school options in the Chicago area, thanks to the fine sponsors who made this custom supplement possible. Twenty-four top-flight private schools and educational organizations offer an in-depth look at their offerings—making this a must-keep guide for families with school-age children. In addition, writer Jane Adler delivers resourceful features including how to find the right private school fit for your child and family, how private schools have taken their learnings from the pandemic and applied them to better practices, and some terrific service-based learning programs that can be found at local private schools.

02 How to Pick a School - With so many choices, it’s about the right fit for the student and the family. 06 Lessons Learned - Private schools adopt best practices to stay open during the pandemic. 12 Service Learning Fosters Community Engagement 14 Check it Out - Open houses, shadow days and tours are back, safely. 16 Innovative Programs, and Schools, Engage Students

To learn more about advertising in Private School Planner or other Crain's Content Studio publications, please contact Director of Custom Media Sarah Chow at 312-280-3172 or schow@crain.com

Bennett Day School, Black Bear Academy, British International School of Chicago, South Loop, Catherine Cook School, Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University, Chicago City Day School, Daystar Academy, Francis W. Parker School, Global Citizenship Experience Lab School, GEMS World Academy Chicago, German International School Chicago, Hyde Park Day School, Josephinum Academy of the Sacred Heart, Lake Forest Academy, Lake Forest Country Day School, Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools, Lycée Français de Chicago, Regina Dominican, Resurrection College Prep High School, Sacred Heart Schools, St. John's Northwestern Academies, The Chicago Academy For the Arts, Wolcott College Prep, Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart

SPONSORED CONTENT

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

SPONSORED CONTENT

How to Pick a School

With so many choices, it’s about the right fit for the student and the family. By Jane Adler

rowing up in Africa, Kirsten Stickney attended a rigorous British school. But when she moved to the states, she felt much more advanced academically than her American friends. So, when it came time to pick a school in Chicago for her kids, she was thrilled to find a British school like the one she went to as a child. Her family’s choice: the British International School of Chicago, South Loop (Preschool-12). “I was excited for my kids to have that same experience I had,” says Stickney. Her advice to parents: focus on what’s important to you and your family. “Trust your gut.”

“Parents should look for the best fit,” advises Ben Hebebrand, school director at the German International School Chicago (Preschool-8). Classes are mostly taught in German, though some instruction is in English. About a third of the families are German; another third are German-Americans; and the others want their children to have an international education. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Program, a curriculum respected for its high standards. “We prepare kids to be bilingual, global citizens,” Hebebrand adds. “Just like clothes fit a child, so does an education.”

Picking a school is an important decision. Parents face a lot of tough questions. Is the school a good fit for my child? Is the school community a good fit for our family? Does the school foster academic excellence? What is the school’s educational approach, or philosophy? What about sports and after school programs? What does it cost? Where is it located? What’s the building like?

WHAT DOES THE FAMILY VALUE? With so many schools to choose from, it’s best to start the selection process with a look at the family’s values, experts say. “Make sure your values align with the mission of the school,” says Lori-Anne Brogdon, head of school at Catherine Cook School (Preschool-8). Think about whether the school truly acts as an extension of the family and the community. “Try to envision your child and your family at the school,” she adds.

With lots of questions in mind, parents have a wide selection of private and independent schools to choose from in the Chicago area. There are small schools and large schools; religious schools and progressive schools; single gender and coed schools; and bilingual schools. There are schools for the gifted child and for those with learning differences. There are boarding and day schools. Some schools only take younger children. Others educate students from preschool all the way through high school.

Meg Steele agrees. She is head of school at Sacred Heart Schools (PreK-8), a Catholic school on Chicago’s North Side. She says it’s important to pick a school that’s a “mission” fit for the family. The school should be teaching the same values as the family is teaching at home. “Find a good match,” Steele advises. School websites typically have a page that defines the institution’s goals and values. (continued on pg. 04)

SPONSORED CONTENT

Sacred Heart Schools, for example, says on its website that the school develops character and educates students to become active, informed and responsible citizens with conviction to serve others and shape a changing world. “We want kids to understand their talents and how their talents will benefit the world,” Steele says. “We talk about raising kids not to be the best in the world but the best for the world.”

(

of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. The Prefect Academy focuses on building leadership and business skills. Summer programs are also available. St. John’s offers both day and boarding options. Chicago-area students live on campus. Grade 6 will be added next year. To apply, the school asks for teacher and counselor recommendations, along with a

INVOLVE OLDER STUDENTS While parents of young children pick the school, high school students should be involved in the decision, experts say. Older children have a sense of where they’ll fit in, and where they’re likely to succeed. “Students must feel like they are part of the decision,” says Carolyn Gorowski, dean of admissions at Lake Forest

WITH LOTS OF QUESTIONS IN MIND, PARENTS HAVE A WIDE SELECTION OF PRIVATE AND INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS TO CHOOSE FROM IN THE CHICAGO AREA.

St. John’s Northwestern Academies (712) takes steps to make sure the student is a good fit for the school. “We spend a great deal of time exploring the parents understanding of their child,” says Joe Sevenz, director of admissions. “We have a low attrition rate because we take our time on the front side.” Located in Delafield, Wisconsin, St. John’s features two academies for boys and girls. Each academy has its own approach. The Military Academy follows the structure

student essay and parent statement. “We get a feel for the student,” Sevenz says. “Is this a success opportunity for the family, the child and the academy?” St. John’s is a college preparatory school that offers a challenging and structured environment, according to Academies President Paul E. Lima, Major General, U.S. Army (Ret.). He adds that the school embraces four pillars: academics, leadership growth, athletics and wellness, and spiritual and character development.

(

Academy (9-12). The Lake Forest school offers both day and boarding options. “It needs to be a family decision,” she says, adding that parents should guide the process. High school students with a learning difference should be involved in school selection, according to Miriam Pike, head of school at Wolcott College Preparatory High School (9-12). The Chicago school is designed for bright students with learning differences. Many struggle at traditional public schools and don’t know there’s another approach. “They can succeed,” Pike says. Wolcott has 150 students with an average class size of 10 students. Each student has an academic coach. When he was ready to start high school, Stickney’s second child wanted to explore different options. “It was important for me to let him have choices,” Stickney says. He took entry tests for Chicago’s selective enrollment schools and the Catholic schools. The family went to open houses. Her son also shadowed a student at a high school for a day to see what it was like.

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

In the end, Stickney’s son decided to stay for high school at the British International School of Chicago, South Loop. He liked the small class sizes and the relationships he had with teachers who kept his best interest in mind. “We were proud of him for recognizing that he wanted to stay at British and why,” Stickney says.

Center for Talent Development ACADEMIC ADVENTURE WITH LIFETIME IMPACT

Weekend programs with in-person and live online options Online programs with flexibly paced and live options Leadership and service-learning offerings Commuter and residential summer programs Assessment tools and resources to identify abilities, inform instruction, and monitor growth

Enrichment and credit-bearing courses for advanced learners Age 3 through Grade 12. Learn more at ctd.northwestern.edu.

Expert instructors and a vibrant global community of learners Project-based learning, critical and creative problem-solving, social activities with peers

SPONSORED CONTENT

Lessons Learned Private schools adopt best practices to stay open during the pandemic. By Jane Adler

o the relief of parents and students alike, school is back in session.

With proven safety measures in place, independent and private schools are open for in-person instruction. In contrast to many public schools, private schools held in-person classes most of last year. “Our schools were remarkably successful,” says Tim Costello, president of the Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools (LMAIS), and head of school at

Science & Arts Academy, a grade school for gifted learners in Des Plaines. “We know what works to be able to maintain in-person instruction.” He adds that independent schools are nimble. They’ve been able to quickly adapt to the changing circumstances of the pandemic. “We have fewer bureaucratic moving parts,” Costello says. “It’s one of the cherished aspects of independent schools.” This year, private schools are implementing many of the same safety

practices found to be successful last year. Important lessons have been learned. The schools follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as state and local rules. Masking is required indoors. Almost all faculty and staff have been vaccinated, along with many students aged 12 and older. “We are in a better place this year,” says Chris Dow, head of school, Chicago City Day School (JK-8). “We know a lot more.” (continued on pg. 08)

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

Be Bold. Think Big. Do Bigger. GCE’s real-world, project-based curriculum prepares students to be a force for good in a rapidly changing world. Embedded in every course, engagements with corporations, nonprofits, and civic leaders show students the relevance of in-class learning. Flexible tuition at GCE provides equitable opportunity for families across Chicagoland. From Wilmette, Rogers Park, South Shore, and Olympia Fields, our student body represents 34 Chicago neighborhoods.

NOVEMBER

Join us for an Open House at our new campus Saturday, November 13th from 11:00 to 1:00 PM

gcelabschool.org

Global Citizenship Experience Lab School GCE Lab School is an independent school serving grades 9–12 9 West Washington Street, Chicago (312) 643-0991

SPONSORED CONTENT

Outdoor activities and classes are still a priority, along with well-ventilated indoor spaces. Testing for COVID and contact tracing is routine at many private schools. Another plus is that families are all-in, eager to keep the school open by carefully following safety precautions at home. “We’ve had good cooperation from our families,” says Mike Henderson, principal at the British International School of Chicago, South Loop (Preschool-12). “We’re proud of that.”

a hybrid format until April when all inperson classes resumed.

Bennett Day School has a relatively new building which has been a big advantage. Located in Chicago, Bennett (PreK-12) has about 300 students. The state-ofthe-art ventilation system brings in 100

Virtual learning options are more limited this year. Federal and state officials have prioritized in-person learning for all schools with some exceptions.

(

Some schools now require visitors, and parents, to be vaccinated to enter the building. Many schools restricted all visitors before vaccinations became available. To keep parents involved when they couldn’t visit, Bennett Day School

SOME SCHOOLS NOW REQUIRE VISITORS, AND PARENTS, TO BE VACCINATED TO ENTER THE BUILDING. MANY SCHOOLS RESTRICTED ALL VISITORS BEFORE VACCINATIONS BECAME AVAILABLE.

percent fresh air, which cuts transmission of the virus. Last year, Bennett placed students in learning pods and conducted twice weekly saliva screening of students and faculty. The testing program is being continued at least through this September. “We did not have any evidence of transmission in school,” says Meg Fitzgerald, director of the early childhood program at Bennett. SCIENCE GUIDES DECISIONS At Daystar Academy (PreK-12), students, faculty and staff were tested periodically last year. “We take the science seriously,” says Tami Doig, head of school at Daystar, located in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. To provide more outdoor space for classes and activities, the school parking lot was covered with artificial grass. Picnic tables were added to accommodate outdoor lunch. Doig says that the new green space has been such a hit that much of it will be kept for the kids to enjoy. Private schools offered virtual classes last year, though most families opted for inperson learning. Catherine Cook School (Preschool-8) kept its early childhood program open in-person all year. Lower and middle school classes were taught in

With 620 students, the British International School of Chicago, South Loop, had about 80 percent of its students opt to attend in person at the start of last year. The year ended with 90 percent of students in person. Students at home joined classes virtually. “It’s weird to say, but last year was a success,” Henderson says.

COMMUNITY MAKES THE DIFFERENCE Vaccinations are a priority at private schools. Many schools have stopped short of mandating vaccinations for faculty and staff. But vaccination rates are high, in the 99 percent range. “Teachers realize this is the part they have to play to have in-person learning,” says Costello. A high percentage of older students are also vaccinated.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

Online classes lack the socialization and direct teacher engagement needed by children for well-rounded development, experts say. “Kids want to be in school so badly,” Fitzgerald says. “The social component of learning is real.” She adds that the students have no problem wearing masks. “They’re resilient,” she says.

(

put together a weekly program called “Nothing Without Joy.” The title reflects the philosophy of the founder of the Reggio Emilia project-based approach to learning at Bennett. The weekly updates included videos of students sharing their activities and projects. “Parents had a lens into what was going on,” Fitzgerald says. (continued on pg. 10) Catherine Cook School

INSPIRING CREATORS

At Catherine Cook, our students are inspired to explore their curiosity, cultivate their strengths, and become compassionate leaders. We meet students where they are and instill a growth mindset that lasts a lifetime.

P r e s c h o o l t h ro u g h 8 t h G r a d e | Tu i t i o n A s s i s t a n c e A v a i l a b l e

SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT AT CATHERINECOOKSCHOOL.ORG Open H o u s e s : O c tober 17 & Nov e mbe r 6, 2021

SPONSORED CONTENT

Educators are looking forward to the day when children under age 12 are eligible for vaccination. “It will be a game changer,” says Costello. “It’s a bright light at the end of the tunnel.”

Daystar Academy

Catherine Cook School held a vaccination clinic for older students. A few more clinics will be scheduled this fall, offering COVID and flu shots. The school has also held COVID testing clinics on site, including one in late August as students returned from vacation. “A lesson we learned was that as a school, we can be a place that provides health and wellness,” says Lori-Anne Brogdon, head of school. Successfully navigating the pandemic wouldn’t be possible without the support and cooperation of the entire school community, administrators say. Many schools ask parents to sign agreements that they will adhere to safety protocols to help keep the school open. Families are asked to disclose travel plans and any exposures to the disease. Parents have formed COVID task forces to help develop plans to keep schools open.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

Physician parents at Francis W. Parker School (JK-12) formed a medical committee to provide guidance during the pandemic. The Chicago school has 946 students. “We have high parent involvement,” says Karen Fisher, director of enrollment and financial aid. In the wake of the pandemic, social and emotional wellness is a priority at Parker this year.

At Catherine Cook School, Brogdon says a big lesson learned is the importance of community. Families, students, teachers and staff have done whatever has been asked of them. They’ve leaned on each other emotionally to get through a difficult time. “I am grateful to be at a school where taking care of each other is what counts,” says Brogdon. “We can work together.”

EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF YOUNG WOMEN The Leaders, Visionaries, and Changemakers of Tomorrow Josephinum Academy of the Sacred Heart prepares students for success in life inside and outside the classroom. Our exceptional faculty and small class sizes foster a passion for excellence in education, service, and faith. Our tuition is affordable and scholarships are accessible to all students.

VISIT JOSEPHINUM.ORG 1501 North Oakley Boulevard | Chicago, Illinois | (773) 276-1261 | admissions@josephinum.org

SPONSORED CONTENT

Service Learning Fosters Community Engagement By Jane Adler

Service is part of learning. Reganne French wants to educate people about mental health issues. French is a senior at Regina Dominican High School (9-12), an all-girls Catholic school in Wilmette. The school’s Leadership Institute prepares girls to have an impact on society. As part of the program, students pick a worthy cause and develop a plan of action.

pandemic. The students are developing activities to teach students at Regina, and other schools, how they can help those struggling with mental health issues. One activity being planned is a “color run,” a 5-K fund-raising race where runners wear different colors to represent different types of mental health struggles. “We thought it would be a fun way to draw attention to the issue and raise money for a good cause,” French says.

French’s group decided to focus on mental health, a big issue during the

Private and independent schools often include service learning programs in the

(

(continued on pg. 14)

“WE WANT STUDENTS TO BE ACTIVE PARTICIPANTS IN SOCIETY.”

- Chris Dow, head of school, Chicago City Day School (JK-8).

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

(

GRADES

CO-ED

boarding & day SCHOOL

Advanced Placement Courses

Median ACT Score

100%

COLLEGE MATRICULATION

Class of 2021 attended 66 colleges in 26 states and 4 countries.

1500 W Kennedy Road | Lake Forest, IL 60045 | 847-615-3267 | www.lfanet.org

SPONSORED CONTENT

curriculum. Students apply academic knowledge and critical thinking skills to help solve community problems. “We want students to be active participants in society,” says Chris Dow, head of school, Chicago City Day School (JK-8). Service learning projects tackle a range of issues from homelessness and hunger to social justice and climate change. With the guidance of teachers, students organize activities from simple food drives to the creation of global nonprofit organizations. Chicago City Day School has been working with the Friends of the Chicago River for 20 years. Students measure the water quality, observing how it impacts plants and animals in the river. The 8th graders track the data and present it at the annual Chicago River Student Congress. This summer, older students took a service learning trip with the Shedd Aquarium to the Florida Keys to monitor coral reefs and conduct water quality testing. On campus,

students created a Monarch butterfly habitat, planting milkweed and other Monarch-friendly vegetation. “We have a lot of butterflies,” Dow says. In May, students at Josephinum Academy of the Scared Heart (9-12), an all-girls Catholic high school in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood, put together a service learning project on social justice. “Our community was heavily impacted by the murder of George Floyd,” says Principal Colleen Schrantz. She adds that one of the founding pillars of the school is to turn social awareness into action. Students held a peaceful lunchtime walk out and created posters to bring awareness to issues such as police brutality, animal cruelty and immigration. SERVICE LEARNING’S BIG IMPACT Chloe Young and Georgia Scarr started a school club that has grown into a worldwide environmental nonprofit organization, Eco Circle International. It bridges the gap between environmental education and sustainable action. Young

Check It Out

Open houses, shadow days and tours are back, safely. By Jane Adler

and Scarr are seniors at the British International School of Chicago, South Loop (Preschool-12). Eco Circle offers fellowships—action-based courses—to students aged 12-18 in the Americas, Asia and Australia. Fellows learn how to create environmental initiatives in their own communities. “We realized there was a disconnect between education and making change,” Scarr says. In addition to fellowships, Eco Circle promotes it message on social media platforms and a blog on its website (ecocircleinternaitnol.org). The school was instrumental in helping Eco Circle get started. The school backed the group’s ecofriendly initiatives on campus such as composting cafeteria leftovers and banning plastic water bottles. Today Eco Circle has 30 members on its development team. Sixty students from around the globe are signed up as fellows this fall. Reflecting on the organization’s success, Young says: “We followed our passions.” the single-gender environment has empowered her. “I have learned to use my voice,” she says. Shadow days and open houses are popular ways for students and families to get a feel for what a school is really like. Shadow days pair a prospective student for the day with a current student. Open houses are typically meant for prospective parents and students, and also other family members. The forum provides an opportunity to meet the teachers and staff, see the facilities, and ask questions. Private and independent schools are carefully reintroducing shadow days and open houses. Many schools turned to virtual tours in 2020-21 because of the pandemic.

One of the best ways to evaluate a school is to see it for yourself. That’s what Julia Gutzman did when she was thinking about where she’d like to go to high school. As a 7th and 8th

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

grader, Gutzman shadowed a student at Resurrection College Prep High School (9-12), an all-girls Catholic school in Chicago. “I was able to experience the school myself,” says Gutzman, now a senior at Resurrection. She adds that

Last year, Resurrection held modified shadow days after school. But this year, the school plans to hold two open houses (Oct. 24; Nov. 4). The school also has designated 17 days when prospective students can shadow a current student. Private tours are available too. (continued on pg. 16)

Her Story Starts Here...

100% of students are accepted to four year colleges and universities

$14.5

Average ACT score for the top 10% of students in the Class of 2021

million in offered scholarship money to the Class of 2021

Regina Dominican, a college preparatory Catholic school for women, sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, fosters academic excellence, truth, peace and justice while challenging each student to develop leadership for life and respect for all races, cultures, and faiths.

Fall 2021 Open Houses: Thursday, October 21, 6-8PM | Sunday, October 24, 12-2PM Class of 2026 Entrance Exam: Saturday, December 4, 8AM

Learn more by visiting: www.rdpanthers.org

SPONSORED CONTENT

School websites include information about open houses, tours and shadow days. Virtual tours are still available online. These are popular with families as a good place to start, educators say. But logging on from home doesn’t replace seeing the school in person. MAKE A CONNECTION St. John’s Northwestern Academies (712), a private boarding and day school in Delafield, Wisconsin, offers open houses, tours and shadow days. Prospective students can also shadow a current student on a Friday and stay overnight. The experience gives the applicant a real feel for what it’s like to be at a boarding school. Parents can arrange an in-person tour at Lake Forest Country Day School (PreK-8). While shadow days are

typically required of applicants, the school conducted virtual visits last year. “We usually want the child to have the opportunity to see the school before they enroll,” says Alex Sheridan, director of enrollment, marketing and financial aid at the school. He adds that students are welcome to join the tour and the school can make flexible arrangements for visits. “There is no one way this happens,” he says. Websites provide information about the basics: academic coursework, school policies, and admissions. In-person visits are a good time to ask specific questions, including about the cost. A common misconception is that private or independent schools are elite and only affordable for families with a lot of

resources. But many private schools offer scholarships or financial aid. For example, Francis W. Parker School (JK-12) last year stepped up its financial commitment to families because of the hardships related to the pandemic. The school, in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, provided $5.4 million in assistance to about 25 percent of the families. The school has 946 students. The school also provided help for music lessons and other extras such as athletic equipment and tutoring. Families without computers received one so they could stay engaged. Resurrection College Prep lists more than 30 scholarships on its website. Resurrection President Rick Piwowarski notes: “The whole school is designed around the student.”

Innovative Programs, and Schools, Engage Students By Jane Adler

marketing and financial aid at Lake Forest Country Day School. He adds that the school graduates even better people, pointing to the school’s social and emotional curriculum for students aged 2 through 8th grade. Innovative schools offer innovative programs, not cookie-cutter coursework. Students explore and create. They learn to code, print 3-D models, and dance. Personalized attention spurs a love of learning. A big trend is that high schools are now offering internship and entrepreneurship programs to give older students a sample of potential careers.

Wolcott College Prep

rivate and independent schools aren’t quite like the schools most of today’s parents attended when they were growing up. Take, for example Lake Forest Country Day School (PreK-8). It has a Think Tank where students can collaborate and brainstorm. The 2,800-square-foot Innovation Lab is a place to prototype, build, test and design. The Robotics Lab

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

houses two practice tables as well as dozens of blue-tooth motorized LEGO robots, LEGO engineering software, moon-bots, and a mock lunar-landscape. The Greene Outdoor Laboratory provides students an opportunity to study nature and earth science in an interactive setting. Young students can play in a mud kitchen, examining leaves, bugs, branches and dirt. “We graduate great students,” says Alex Sheridan, director of enrollment,

Lycée Francais de Chicago (PreK-12), a bilingual French school in Chicago, opened a web radio lab this year. Students are producing podcasts and content for the streaming service in French, German, English and Spanish. “Students are able to share their experience and express themselves while improving their language skills,” says Eric Veteau, (continued on pg. 18)

100 YEARS

OF EDUCATING YOUNG WOMEN Resurrection is a Catholic community in the Lasallian tradition, dedicated to the education of young women, and to the development of their God-given talents.

Located on the northside of Chicago in the Edison Park neighborhood 22-acres of outdoor space

100% graduation rate for nearly decade Over 15,000 alumnae

Feature academic programs include a four-year STREAM program, differentiated academic learning, and Business Practicum program

Visit reshs.org to schedule a tour of RES.

reshs.org | admissions@reshs.org | 773.775.6616 Founded by the Sisters of the Resurrection in 1922, Resurrection is sponsored by the Christian Brothers of the Midwest.

SPONSORED CONTENT

president and head of school at Lycée Francais de Chicago. He adds that the school offers foreign exchange and hosting programs. Parent Megan Scully needed to find an innovative school program for her child with a learning disability after attending the public school for several years. “We were dedicated to the public schools, but you have to know your kid,” Scully says. She selected Hyde Park Day School (Ages 6-15). With campuses in Northfield, Chicago, and Lemont, the school offers a specialized, educational curriculum for bright students with learning disabilities.

a leader in the classroom. Many students with learning disabilities struggle with low self-esteem. “He has that confidence back,” she says. Hyde Park’s Executive Director Casey Crnich adds: “We teach students how to self-advocate.”

Wolcott College Prep (9-12) is designed for older students with learning differences. “Our whole school is innovative,” says Miriam Pike, head of school at Wolcott in Chicago. Kids who learn differently need to be in the right environment.” Wolcott offers standard courses along with classes in the visual arts, music production, robotics, engineering, software, "WE TEACH STUDENTS HOW TO entrepreneurship and other SELF-ADVOCATE" specialties. Last -Casey Crinch, executive director, Hyde Park Day School year, the robotics team designed a potable ventilator for COVID patients. The classes are small. “It’s an amazing Wolcott also offers a robust college place,” Scully says. “My son has made counseling program that starts in 9th amazing progress.” grade to help students find the right school to meet their needs after they Besides his academic progress, Scully graduate. says her son is engaged as a learner and

(

UNIQUE APPROACHES Innovative programs are being expanded at GCE (Global Citizenship Experience) Lab School (9-12). The Chicago high school which focuses on experiential learning recently moved to a new 16,000-square-foot facility in Chicago at 9 W. Washington St. The large space includes a teaching kitchen, maker space and labs. Field experiences and action projects connect the classroom to the real world. “GCE students are willing to try new things,” says Sarah Brock, director of enrollment management. As part of the curriculum, students devote 50 hours to a special community project of interest to them. “We are developing global citizens,” Brock says. Creative students often thrive in schools dedicated to the arts. The Chicago Academy for the Arts (9-12) offers innovative programs for high school students with specialization in music, theatre, musical theatre, media arts (filmmaking, animation, creative writing), visual arts, and dance. Students, who come from all over the Chicago area, also study traditional subjects. Applicants (continued on pg. 20)

German International School Chicago

An IB World School

GIVE YOUR CHILD THE WORLD. International Education. Bilingual Advantage. Global Opportunity.

NOW ENROLLING FOR IN-PERSON LEARNING Preschool – Grade 8 Non-German-speaking students welcome to apply through Grade 2

Join us for an OPEN HOUSE or schedule a PERSONAL TOUR!

773-857-3000

www.germanschoolchicago.com 18

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

E FUTUR CREATE YOUR

By providing world-class academic excellence and comprehensive pastoral care to every child, British International School of Chicago, South Loop gives our students the tools needed to thrive and make their mark on the world. Our curricula are enhanced through collaborations with the world’s best, including Juilliard, MIT, and UNICEF. Sign-up for our Open House on October 6 at bischicagosl.org/2021-open-house or call 773.998.2472. 161 West 9th Street, Chicago, IL

94%

of BISC-SL parents feel their child is developing global awareness at school

1 IN 2

BISC-SL graduates attend a top-100 university.

SPONSORED CONTENT

submit a portfolio of their work or have an audition.

design the student’s own social innovation project.

Located at 1010 W. Chicago Ave., the Academy’s school day consists of six 45-minute academic periods followed by a three-plus hour immersion in a student's chosen arts department. Students participate in more than 100 productions throughout the course of the school year.

The Center for Talent Development has about 5,000 enrollments a year. Students are selected based on grades and test scores, or by teacher recommendations, according to Eric Calvert, associate director at the Center.

INNOVATIVE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE. The Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University (ages 3 - grade 12) offers courses and programs for academically talented students. Many of the after-school classes are online for now. Young learners have a wide course selection from storytelling and architecture to robotics and rocket science. A new program for older students is the leadership intensive series. Courses promote skill-building and socially responsible leadership. For example, the Social Entrepreneurship & Innovation course draws on case studies, meetings with entrepreneurs and group collaboration to

CAREER PREPARATION A growing number of independent and private high schools offer innovative courses that connect the student to business and career opportunities. Students at Lycée Francais de Chicago can participate in Start’Up Lycée. The program is a contest where students create a startup company over an intensive 48-hour time span, with advice and guidance from coaches. Students learn about themselves in order to hone their professional goals and develop the skills required in today’s business world. Once a week, students at Josephinum Academy of the Sacred Heart (9-12)

engage in real world learning. The career development, internship program gives students hands-on experience working at a local organization or business. “We’re putting our students on the ground to make them aware of the opportunities out there,” says Colleen Schrantz, principal at the all-girls Catholic high school in Chicago. “Students are emerged in the community through networks and mentorships to help them succeed.” Resurrection College Prep High School (9-12) offers a practicum job program. Small student groups meet and work with a coordinator to identify job areas of interest. Students at the all-girls Catholic school in Chicago have shadowed at 130 different organizations to get a sense of whether they would like a career in that field. While some of the job visits were held virtually last year because of the pandemic, the school plans to add an internship program next year. “We want to help students figure out where they fit in,” Resurrection President Rick Piwowarski says.

Where Greatness Takes Root

A co-educational independent school for students age 2 through Grade 8. Graduating students of strong character with a passion for learning since 1888.

145 S. Green Bay Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045 | 847.615.6151 | www.lfcds.org/admission

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

SPONSORED CONTENT

Sacred Heart Schools* 6250 N. Sheridan Road

Resurrection College Prep High School 7500 W. Talcott Ave.

Lycée Français de Chicago* 1929 W. Wilson Ave.

German International School Chicago 1726 W. Berteau Ave.

Black Bear Academy 1801 W. Byron St.

Chicago City Day School* 541 W. Hawthorne Place

GCE Lab School 1535 N. Dayton St. #8054 Josephinum Academy of the Sacred Heart 1501 N. Oakley Blvd.

Francis W. Parker School* 330 W. Webster Ave. Catherine Cook School* 226 W. Schiller St.

The Chicago Academy of the Arts* 1010 W. Chicago Ave.

Gems World Academy 350 E. South Water St.

Wolcott College Prep* 524 N. Wolcott Ave. Bennett Day School 955 W. Grand Ave.

*Member of Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools Daystar Academy 1550 S. State St.

Hyde Park Day School Chicago* 6254 S. Ellis Ave.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

British International School of Chicago, South Loop 161 W 9th St.

JOIN

NOW! Everything a city parent needs to choose a school Preschool & Elementary School Fair (Sept. 25–Oct. 16, 2021) Join virtual chats with school administrators, participate in 2 expert-led webinars about CPS admissions, and plan school visits using our open-house calendar

For more than 40 years,

Neighborhood Parents Network has been helping Chicago families choose the best-fit schools for their children.

School & Daycare Directory Find vital stats on all 1,000+ Chicago schools School search video library “Applying to Kindergarten,” “What to Look for in a Preschool,” and more Discussion forum Get advice and hear about parent experiences at Chicago schools Plus Social groups, support groups, parent-education webinars, childcare resources and more!

Join NPN’s Chicago parent community today! Use promo code CRAINS10 for $10 off an annual membership.

npnparents.org/parent-membership

Join NPN today to access the No. 1 school-search tools in the city!

SPONSORED CONTENT

Lake Forest Academy 1500 Kennedy Road, Lake Forest Lake Forest Country Day School 145 S. Green Bay Road, Lake Forest

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart 760 E. Westleigh Road, Lake Forest

Hyde Park Day School* 13860 Main St., Lemont

171

294

Hyde Park Day School* 1980 Old Willow Road, Northfield

Regina Dominican 701 Locust Road, Wilmette

*Member of Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools

Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University 617 Dartmouth Place, Evanston

St. John's Northwestern Leadership Academies 1101 N. Genesee St., Delafield, Wisconsin

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

Our award-winning academies have a proven record of accomplishments and a reputation of high standards. We speak proudly of our successful lifelong learners who leave our academies and enter a rapidly changing world with strong academic skills and ethical leadership qualities. Our four foundational pillars bring life to our well-rounded approach in maximizing each child’s potential. Personal attention from a dedicated faculty and staff, to our young people and their families, begins day one and continues beyond graduation.

Two Paths

One Mission

ENROLL TODAY

Independent Coed Boarding & Day School, Grades 7-12, Located in Delafield, Wisconsin

Helping children learn, grow, and develop according to their individual needs

Academic & Therapeutic Classes · Tutoring · Speech & Language Therapy Occupational Therapy · Psychological Services · Parent Coaching

blackbearacademy.com

773.244.0700

info@blackbearacademy.com

Bennett Day School

SPONSORED CONTENT

955 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60642 312-BENNETT bennettday.org

@bennettdayschool @bennettdayschool @bennettday

GRADES: PK-12 ENROLLMENT: 306 STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO: 9 to 1 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: 17 ANNUAL INVESTMENT: FINANCIAL AID: We are committed to maintaining a community of diverse students from all backgrounds, regardless of financial means. Bennett Grants are variable, based on an individual family’s specific financial situation. Awards range from $500 to nearly 100% of tuition expense, based on the calculated family need and circumstances, and the availability of Bennett Grant dollars in a given school year. FACULTY: One of the core tenants of the Reggio Emilia philosophy that inspires Bennett’s program is the “Image of the Child,” or the way that adults perceive the motivations, abilities and development of a child. At Bennett, faculty do not see students as empty vessels waiting to be filled with information, but rather competent, capable individuals who are co-

collaborators in their education. CAMPUS AND FACILITIES: The Bennett Day campus originally operated as the Chicago Commons, established in 1894. It is fitting that this campus, which housed one of the first progressive schools in the country, once again fosters the same approach. In 2019, Bennett completed a second phase of expansion, adding a modern wing to accommodate its Upper School students. When the school is fully built out, the campus will be 90,000 square feet with rooftop green spaces, state-of-the-art Tinkering and Engineering Labs as well as several areas for physical education. ACCREDITATION: • National Independent Private Schools Association • National Association

of Independent Schools subscriber UNIQUE STUDY OPTIONS/PROGRAMS: Upper School students begin each day at 9 a.m. with advisory to support executive functioning and socialemotional development. Additionally, all Upper School students participate in an internship, yearly travel and ACT/SAT test prep with Academic Approach. VALUE PROPOSITION: At Bennett, students learn by doing through dynamic project-based learning experiences. Our competency-based approach to education and assessment provides each learner with actionable feedback based on their strengths and areas of challenge.

MISSION STATEMENT: At Bennett Day School, our mission is to provide a collaborative culture that nurtures our innate sense of inquiry and curiosity. We are committed to advancing creativity, innovation and the development of lifelong learners and leaders.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

$19,975-$32,422 ESTABLISHED: 2014 EMPLOYEES: 66 MANAGING EXECUTIVES: Cameron Smith, Co-Founder and CEO Jackie Miller, Principal and Chief Academic Officer BOARD: Patrick Branham J. Michael Locke Betsy Morton Cyrus Patel Gail Ward

Nurture Your Child's Curiosity At Bennett, students learn by doing through dynamic project-based learning experiences. Now accepting applications for PreK-12th grade!

Join us at an Open House: bit.ly/discoverbennett 955 W. Grand Avenue, Chicago

312.BENNETT (236-6388)

admissions@bennettday.org

CHICAGO CITY Day School

SPONSORED CONTENT

541 W. Hawthorne Place, Chicago, IL 60657 773-327-0900 chicagocitydayschool.org

@chicagocitydayschool @chicagocitydayschool

FINANCIAL AID: Need-based financial aid is available. FACULTY: Teachers are an extraordinary group of dedicated professionals, chosen for their professional experience, skill, devotion to children and passion for teaching. The School places the highest premium on the graduate degrees earned by its teachers and the wealth of professional experiences they bring. ALUMNI: At the end of grade 8, City Day graduates are admitted to independent, parochial and public day and boarding schools in Chicagoland and throughout the United States. Since 1985, all graduates have enrolled in college. CAMPUS AND FACILITIES: The School's pristine twoacre campus is located on a tree-lined residential street

in Chicago's Lakeview East neighborhood, less than a block from Lake Shore Drive and Lake Michigan. Classroom buildings provide 71,000 square feet of imaginative space specially designed and constructed for elementary school-aged students. Stateof-the-art facilities include spacious classrooms, two fully equipped science laboratories, an expansive library, two computer laboratories, two regulationsized gymnasiums, an inviting art studio, a stimulating shop for technology education and a sophisticated theater. A spacious play yard includes a 4,000-square-foot ice rink. ACCREDITATION: • Independent Schools Association of the Central States EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS: Offerings include competitive sports and

numerous after-school clubs and programs. UNIQUE STUDY OPTIONS/ PROGRAMS: Highlights include an emphasis on public speaking, which builds confidence and critical-thinking skills; a commitment to service learning, which includes annual restoration work along the Chicago River; and a summer research expedition, in partnership with the Shedd Aquarium, to the Bimini region of the Bahamas; a robust technology and design program; and immersive learning trips overseas. VALUE PROPOSITION: Chicago City Day School provides a rigorous education within a culture of kindness. We challenge, support and inspire our students so that they can succeed in high school and beyond.

MISSION STATEMENT: Chicago City Day School prepares students intellectually, socially, emotionally and aesthetically to participate in a changing and increasingly complex society. We offer an academically challenging program in a noncompetitive school climate in which children are encouraged to take risks. Our students will be prepared to be active, positive members of society.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

GRADES: JK - 8 ENROLLMENT: 150 STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO: 5 to 1 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: Class sizes range from 10 to 20 students. We break classes into smaller groups for core subjects. ANNUAL INVESTMENT: $26,450 - $29,850 ESTABLISHED: 1981 MANAGING EXECUTIVE: Christopher Dow, Head of School

SPONSORED CONTENT

DAYSTAR ACADEMY

SPONSORED CONTENT

1550 S. State St., Chicago, IL 60605 312-791-0001 daystaracademy.org

@daystaracademy @daystaracademychicago GRADES: PK-12 ENROLLMENT: 340 STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO: 10 to 1 FINANCIAL AID: We believe that access to an economically and racially diverse, highquality, faith-based education should be available to all. Therefore, our financial aid program awards over $2 million in tuition assistance each year in a sliding scale tuition model. Tuition covers all school supplies, technology and learning excursions. FACULTY: Daystar teachers are degreed and certified with additional training from the International Baccalaureate Organization in their area of specialization. ALUMNI: Daystar alumni are currently engaged in the world of work and academia. The diverse community of learners and the inquiry-based education has prepared them to engage with competence and empathy. CAMPUS AND FACILITIES: Daystar Academy is strategically located in the South Loop,

with easy access to all major expressways and DuSable/Lake Shore Drive. Our proximity to the Museum Campus and the Loop facilitates outside-of-theclassroom learning excursions to business, art and cultural districts. Students come to Daystar from nearly all Chicago zip codes and several Chicago suburbs. ACCREDITATION: • Cognia/AdvancED • Illinois High School Association • Illinois State Board of Education • International Baccalaureate Organization EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS: The Daystar Falcons compete regionally in soccer, basketball, cross country, track and volleyball, with more programs to come. Our high schoolers have the opportunity to develop extracurriculars based on their interests, including photography, journalism, Model United Nations and jam band.

UNIQUE STUDY OPTIONS/ PROGRAMS: Our students use the city as a classroom, each taking 10 to 15 learning excursions during the year. Our middle school students take an overnight science retreat and a Washington, D.C. trip, while high schoolers travel internationally. Learning excursions and travel are included in tuition. VALUE PROPOSITION: Daystar students are known, celebrated and taught to look at the world through the lens of God's truth. As one of the few faith-based IB schools in the United States, Daystar is “IB for all,” meaning that students are prepared for the diversity they surely will encounter in higher education and the world of work. Daystar works with parents to raise the adults the world needs.

MISSION STATEMENT: Empowering our students to positively impact the world through a faith-based, culturally-engaged, globally-minded education.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: 16 ANNUAL INVESTMENT: $9,750 half-day PK $13,800 full-day PK $13,800 grades K-5 $14,900 grades 6-12 ESTABLISHED: 1997 EMPLOYEES: 49 MANAGING EXECUTIVE: Tami Doig, Head of School BOARD: Deena Marie Carr, President GRADUATION RATE:

100%

International Baccalaureate For All Students

become prepared to positively impact the world?

NOW ENROLLING

are confident that you are loved and valued in God’s eyes? are known and can develop your own identity? are inspired to make a difference in your neighborhood, their city, and the world as a natural result of your learning?

PRE-K - 12TH GRADE Faith-based, Deliberately Diverse, Culturally Engaged

WWW.DAYSTARACADEMY.ORG

FRANCIS W. PARKER Passions are ignited and talents are developed as students apply their knowledge in new and exciting ways in clubs and activities. Offerings evolve to reflect the diverse interests of our student body, ensuring something engaging for all learners, including math and science Olympiads, comic book clubs, robotics teams, activism clubs, a Red Cross club, an astrophysics club, Model United Nations, a range of writing and arts opportunities and affinity groups geared toward diversity, equity and inclusion. FINANCIAL AID: Parker awards $5.4 million in assistance each year to make a Parker education accessible to students of all backgrounds, regardless of financial means. Approximately 25% of our students receive some form of tuition assistance, with an average award of $28,400.

levels as part of the curriculum. The school is positioned on six acres with buildings totaling more than 240,000 square feet. Nearly the entire campus has been renovated over the last 15 years. Most recently, the library has been reimagined to provide a vibrant space for students to learn, collaborate and innovate.

ALUMNI: Parker educates students to connect reflection with action, wisdom with innovation, deeds with consequences, and character with citizenship. Notable alumni include Jonathan Alter, Ayanna Pressley and David Mamet.

ACCREDITATION: • National Association of Independent Schools • Independent Schools Association of the Central States

CAMPUS AND FACILITIES: As the only independent school in Chicago where students from 14 grades share a single building, Parker’s campus functions as a model home, offering collaborative opportunities between grade

EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS: Parker welcomes students to discover and develop skills in a variety of sports with more than 50 no-cut interscholastic teams. Over 75 % of students in grades 6-12 participate on at least one athletic team during the academic year.

UNIQUE STUDY OPTIONS/ PROGRAMS: Upper School students can work one-onone with advisors to create independent study experiences. Students have a range of opportunities to study abroad. Recent years have seen Parker students immersing themselves in cultural experiences in Belize, China, Cuba, Dubai, Ghana, Mexico and Russia. VALUE PROPOSITION: Parker stands as a progressive school, dedicated to the growth and development of the whole person, on behalf of our democratic society and the wider world and individual work.

CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES:

MISSION STATEMENT: The Francis W. Parker School educates students to think and act with empathy, courage and clarity as responsible citizens and leaders in a democratic society and global community.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

SPONSORED CONTENT

330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, IL 60614 773-353-3000 fwparker.org @parkerchicago @fwparker @fwparker GRADES: K–12 ENROLLMENT: 946 students, residing in 54 Chicago-area zip codes; 43% self-identify as students of color STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO: 8 to 1 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: 18 ANNUAL INVESTMENT: $36,800 YEAR ESTABLISHED: 1901 EMPLOYEES: 220 faculty and staff FACULTY: More than 86% hold advanced degrees MANAGING EXECUTIVES: Daniel B. Frank ’74, PhD, Principal Robert Haugh, CPA, CFO BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Rika Yoshida, Chair Jonathan Turk, 1st Vice Chair Jennifer Friedes, 2nd Vice Chair Josh Lowitz, Treasurer Rachel Bronson, Secretary GRADUATION RATE:

100%

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE RATE:

100%

PARKER

COME IN. STAND OUT. Apply to Parker Today A Parker educational experience nurtures knowledge, encourages individuality, fosters citizenship and instills confidence. Parker provides a solid intellectual foundation that empowers students to follow every path and explore every angle. On a six-acre campus in the heart of Chicago, students in Junior Kindergarten through 12th grade come together from across the city and discover a world of endless possibilities.

Visit fwparker.org/apply PARKER IS COMMITTED TO ACCESS AND EQUITY. THERE IS NO FEE TO APPLY.

Francis W. Parker School Expanding Learning

Attend an Open House RSVP fwparker.org/admission-events Lower School (Junior Kindergarten–Grade 3) Saturday, October 16 | 10 a.m. Middle School (Grades 6–8) Saturday, October 23 | 10 a.m. Upper School (Grades 9–12) Saturday, November 13 | 10 a.m.

Now Accepting Applications for the 2022–23 School Year n n

Junior Kindergarten through 12th grade Need-based financial assistance available

330 West Webster Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60614

fwparker.org 773.797.5107

SPONSORED CONTENT

GEMS WORLD ACADEMY CHICAGO

350 E. South Water St., Chicago, IL 60601 312-809-8910 gemschicago.org

care and enrichment programs also are available. UNIQUE STUDY OPTIONS/ PROGRAMS: GEMS seeks out partnerships with museums, local businesses, universities, and hospitals, and students reap the benefits of proximity to public parks, historical monuments, and public art which they meaningfully explore through our robust Field Studies program, taking advantage of the school’s central downtown location. Field Studies are a core component of our student-centered, inquirybased program. Field Studies help create an environment in which student curiosity and agency generate pathways to a deeper understanding of local and global communities. FINANCIAL AID: Financial assistance is available for qualifying families, as are select merit-based scholarships. Please inquire for more information.

campus is strategically located in the downtown Lakeshore East community, providing easy access to Chicago’s many cultural, natural and civic learning opportunities.

FACULTY: Our faculty has studied or taught on four continents. Over 90% of our teachers hold master's degrees and have at least seven years of experience.

ACCREDITATION: • International Baccalaureate (IB) World School • New England Association of School and Colleges

CAMPUS AND FACILITIES: Designed with 21st century teaching and learning in mind, the spacious campus provides a technology rich environment that encourages connections to lessons, people and locations throughout the region and world. Our

EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS: We offer an extended learning program within the school day. Students choose from a variety of options including music, language, sports, creative arts, media and STEM. Before- and after-school

VALUE PROPOSITION: GEMS World Academy Chicago offers an unmatched educational experience in Chicago. Our key differentiators are exceptional facilities and location; rigorous college preparatory academics within a student-centered, inquiry-based IB framework; low teacher-student ratio and view of teaching as a collaborative partnership between teacher and student; deeply involved and supportive community of faculty and families; connection to the larger GEMS network which fuels our emphasis on global citizenship.

MISSION STATEMENT: To inspire inquiring, knowledgeable, reflective and intercultural learners to become morally responsible leaders with the skills and attributes necessary to create a more connected and prosperous world.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

@gwacademychi @gwacademychi @gwacademychi

GRADES: PK-12 ENROLLMENT: 350 STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO: 10 to 1 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: 18 ANNUAL INVESTMENT: $28,500-$33,800 YEAR ESTABLISHED: 2014 GEMS World Academy Chicago; 1959 GEMS Education EMPLOYEES: 70

At GEMS World Academy Chicago, the International Baccalaureate curriculum and our commitment to using Chicago as an extension of the classroom help students discover a world of possibility in and beyond their city. As part of a network of schools around the world focusing on developing the culturally competent leaders of tomorrow, we offer exchange and collaboration to inspire new perspectives, challenge convention, and develop the resilience to embrace a future of unknowns. Contact the Admissions Office for more information at admissions@gemschicago.org or 312-809-8910.* * We are following expert guidelines on maintaining a safe school environment, which are subject to change at any point.

Limited space available.

312.809.8910 | gemschicago.org | 350 East South Water Street, Chicago, IL 60601

Learning Locally, Thinking Globally

Enrolling now for in-person instruction for the 2021-2022 school year.

SACRED HEART SCHOOLS EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS: We offer 40 special interest clubs and activities including band, debate, glee club and theater. Eighty percent of students participate on at least one athletic team during the academic year. Over 50 sports teams are offered, including baseball, basketball, crosscountry, flag football, golf, softball, track and volleyball.

FINANCIAL AID: More than $3 million in need-based tuition assistance will be awarded this year to nearly 30% of our student body. ALUMNI: About 95% of our students are accepted to their first-choice high school, including selective enrollment schools (Jones, Northside, Payton, Whitney Young), Catholic schools (Ignatius, Loyola, Woodlands Academy), and independent schools (Francis Parker, Lab, Latin). CAMPUS AND FACILITIES: Our two-acre SK-8 campus overlooks Lake Michigan

and includes a chapel, four science labs, a turf field and double-court gymnasium. Our newly renovated preschool is conveniently located just off Lake Shore Drive in Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood and features a sensory exploration room, full-sized gymnasium and adjacent outdoor playground. ACCREDITATION: • Independent Schools Association of the Central States • National Association of Independent Schools • Network of Sacred Heart Schools in the United States and Canada

VALUE PROPOSITION: Sacred Heart is Chicago’s oldest independent school, serving city’s children since 1876. Our approach to education combines a dynamic and challenging curriculum within a nurturing environment. With the support and dedication of exceptional teachers and staff, our students are inspired to achieve their best and be their best selves. Each student’s learning needs are continually addressed, as they learn to think critically and creatively, to work collaboratively and apply knowledge and skills from varied disciplines within and beyond the school. Our students also benefit from our small class sizes and low studentteacher ratio—ensuring they receive personal attention and feel known and valued by their school community.

MISSION STATEMENT: Sacred Heart Schools on Sheridan Road—the Academy of the Sacred Heart for Girls (founded in 1876) and Hardey Preparatory for Boys (founded in 1935)—are Catholic, independent, single-sex elementary schools committed to academic excellence within the context of a Christian community. Sacred Heart Schools welcomes students of all races, religious beliefs and socio-economic backgrounds. This educational mission is deeply rooted in the 200-year tradition of the Society of the Sacred Heart and shared with the Network of Sacred Heart Schools located on every major continent, including 25 schools in the United States and Canada.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

SPONSORED CONTENT

SK-Grade 8 Campus 6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660 Preschool Campus, 5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660

@sacredheartschools @sacredheartsheridanrd GRADES: PK-8 ENROLLMENT: 650 STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO: 7 to 1 (PK/JK), 9 to 1 (SK-8) AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: 14-16 (PK-SK), 18-20 (G1-8) ANNUAL INVESTMENT: SK-8 $23,687 (includes before- and after-school care); bus service in seven Chicago neighborhoods. PK/ JK $22,897 full day, $17,173 half day, no additional charge for before-school care. ESTABLISHED: 1876 EMPLOYEES: 165 faculty and staff, 70% with advanced degrees MANAGING EXECUTIVE: Meg Steele, Head of Schools BOARD: Rahul Danak, Chair GRADUATION RATE:

100%

A REMARKABLE EDUCATION comes from the heart. Sacred Heart is a Catholic, independent, PK-8 school that warmly welcomes children of all faiths. Inspired teaching, personalized learning, and a supportive community ensure our students thrive academically and grow in goodness, self-knowledge, and service to others.

6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660 www.shschicago.org

Join us for a Virtual Information Session: October 1, 10 am October 13, 1 pm November 4, 10 am December 1, 1 pm

To register, please contact the Admissions Office at 773.681.8418 or admissions@shschicago.org.

WOODLANDS ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART experience. All students go either on international exchange, participate in group travel or take a globally-focused class.

FINANCIAL AID: Woodlands Academy offers an indexed tuition model in support of its commitment to socioeconomic diversity, which enhances academic performance, promotes social awareness and sustains a healthy school culture. Families pay tuition across a spectrum based on their economic circumstances. FACULTY: 89% of faculty hold a master’s degree or higher; the average years of teaching experience is 16. ACCREDITATION: • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools • Independent Schools Association of the Central States EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMS: Opportunities

include eight sports, 23 student run clubs, four choirs, a thriving theater program and a full orchestra. UNIQUE STUDY OPTIONS/ PROGRAMS: Woodlands Academy’s Center for Global Studies offers a comprehensive academic and experiential program that equips graduates to navigate through and flourish in a rapidly changing global landscape. The Center is composed of three parts: The International Exchange program provides students with immersive exchanges at Sacred Heart schools across the world. The application-only Global Scholars program offers a distinguished and differentiated academic and experiential program. Global Odyssey is an all-school global immersion

VALUE PROPOSITION: Through the transcendent power of relationship, Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart prepares each student to think more deeply, act more courageously and grow more intentionally to enable her to confidently navigate the world as a powerful force for good. Our core promises include: • An education steeped in a global outlook with Sacred Heart ties that span six continents. • A 200-year history and mission articulated in Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria. • A personalized education enabled by our small size and every teacher’s commitment to know the heart of each girl. • A dynamic swirl of abundant opportunities and activity offered in an atmosphere of spiritual growth and contemplation. • An environment that values each person’s gifts, talents and unique identities as a part of the building of a caring, connected and inclusive community.

MISSION STATEMENT: As a member of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools in the United States, Woodlands Academy commits itself to educate to its five goals: a personal and active faith in God, a deep respect for intellectual values, a social awareness which impels to action, the building of community as a Christian value and personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

SPONSORED CONTENT

760 E. Westleigh Rd. Lake Forest, IL 60045 847-234-4300 woodlandsacademy.org

@woodlandsacademy @woodlandsacademy

GRADES: 9-12 ENROLLMENT: 120 STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO: 4 to 1 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: 10 ANNUAL INVESTMENT: $29,400 ESTABLISHED: 1858 EMPLOYEES: 55 MANAGING EXECUTIVE: Dr. Dawn Nichols, Head of School BOARD: Lynda Mooney P’22, Chair GRADUATION RATE:

100%

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE RATE:

100%

Niche Ranked

GIRLS’ SCHOOL IN ILLINOIS

Niche Ranked

CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN ILLINOIS

2020

NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

Your daughter can experience our vibrant school community firsthand by attending a fall shadow day!

W O ODL ANDSACADEMY.ORG/SHADO WDAYS

HOUSE

Thursday

OCTOBER 7TH

Sunday

NOVEMBER 7TH

OUR APPRECIATION

SPONSORED CONTENT

hank you for exploring this tenth annual Crain’s Private School Planner. We hope it becomes a rich resource you can turn to whenever you are plotting your children’s educational path. We also wish to thank the fine area private schools that make it possible for us to bring this guide to you every year by showcasing their programs in the information-packed display ads and listings you see throughout each issue. Please use them for comparison, inspiration and to gain a deeper understanding of the many fine educational options available to families throughout the Chicago area.

BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF CHICAGO, SOUTH LOOP A NORD ANGLIA EDUCATION SCHOOL

2021 CRAIN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL PLANNER

HYDE PARK DAY SCHOOL

Transforming the Lives of Bright Children with Learning Disabilities

Individualized programming for students in grades 1-8. Chicago 773-420-2550

Lemont 630-296-1229

Northfield 847-446-7025

For more information, visit: hydeparkday.org Wilson Language Training and Wilson® Accredited Partners have received accreditation by the International Dyslexia Association. This designation recognizes that Wilson Reading System® certifications align with the IDA’s Knowledge and Practice Standards for the Teachers of Reading.

Independent Schools Independent schools are dynamic learning environments that foster excellence in education, promote intellectual curiosity, personal social and emotional growth, and civic responsibility.

Visit LMAIS.org for a schedule of admissions open houses and tours. LMAIS is a nonprofit association of 39 independent schools fully accredited by ISACS located in the Chicago Metropolitan and Northwest Indiana area