Directories of Schools in Chicago's Hyde Park-Kenwood and nearby

A service of Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference's Schools Committee and the Conference website, www.hydepark.org
Help support our work: Join the Conference!
Join the Schools Committee-Co chairs Homer Ashby and Nancy Baum.

First some advice on selecting schools...

  Visit After School and other Kids offerings
  • First some advice:

    What should parents look for when choosing a school in their neighborhood? A strong principal, parental involvement and school involvement in its community- external partners for starts. When looking at scores, go beyond gross numbers--and don't forget the attendance levels. Look for evidence the teachers are working together horizontally and vertically and taking students under their wings with such practices as common lesson planning and small learning groups or schools within schools--and whether these are working. Look for schools that have figured out how to use computers and other teaching tools.


Pre Schoo
l [ages to5, sometimes beyond]

Public (see info under elementary, and in specific schools in detail)

  • Ariel (charter), 1119 E. 46th., 773 535-1996
  • Bret Harte, 1556 E. 56th St., 773 535-0870. Half-day rest. to attendance area.
  • Kozminski, 936 E. 54th St., 773 535-0980
  • North Kenwood-Oakland Charter, 1119 E. 46th St., 773 773 535-2399
  • Price, 4351 S. Drexel Blvd., 773 535-1300
  • Ray School pre-kindergarten and tuition-based kindergarten, 5631 S. Kimbark Ave., 773 535-0970
  • Reavis, 834 E. 50th St., 773 535-1060 (2 Head Starts and 3 early childhood spec. ed.)

Private (some home-based) (See more detailed descriptions, mission statements of many, below.)

  • Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School, e-mail. 5235 S, Cornell, 774 493-8880. Carla Goldberg Preschool Dir. Ages 2-4. Post-school and early am, parent-tot, summer. Parent board.
  • Ancona Montessori School. 4770 S. Dorchester Ave. 773 924-2356. Bonnie L. Wishne, Director. Presch enr. 92.
  • Baby PHD, Professional Home Day Care with store and studio workshops. Registration required 773 784-8920, 256-0955, 5225 S. Harper. Many day-school classes are in a nearby home setting, 5411 S. Harper. Day School number 773 684-2229. info@babyphd.com.
  • Arnita Young Boswell Early Childhood Educ Ctr. "Affordable childcare for 3-5s." 5600 S. Woodlawn (Union Church). 667-2525. 7 am-6 pm. year-round.
  • Brilliant Beginnings Children's House, 4336 S. Greenwood. 773 924-2224. Ages 6 weeks to 12 years. In a beautiful old mansion--program praised by parents.
  • Cambridge School of Chicago See in Elementary.
  • Centers for New Horizons- CNH other after school programs 773 667-0666, head start programs 773 667-0061.
  • Chicago Child Care Society. 5467 S. University. 773 643-0452.
  • Computer Pre-School Academy, 5240 S. Hyde Park. Blvd., 773 684-0566
  • Creative Mansion Children's Academy, 4745 S. Ellis Ave., 268-6066. Marjorie Jones Admin., Myke Gerring, Dir. Christian and strong academic, afterschool and summer. creativemansion@sbcglobal.net.
  • Cuddle Care Academy. Half and full 15 mo-6 yrs. Harper Square, 4800 S. Lake Park. 773 285-1114.
  • Education Station. Free in conjunction with CPS and schools. Small group. Parent Helpline 800 246-2154.
  • First Presbyterian Church Head start Program. 6400 S. Kimbark. 773 363-1235. Poverty guidelines apply. Ages 3-11.
  • Harris YWCA. 62nd and Drexel. 773 667-0014 x22.
  • Head Start of Illinois
  • Hyde Park Academy for Preschool Learning, 773 268-6011
  • Hyde Park Development Center (preschool two to five years of age, after school 6-10 years). 773 324-0947. Preschool two to five years of age, after school 6-10 years. 5325 South Hyde Park Blvd. #2A 60615. Hyde Park Development Center's home based pre-school program may extend into lower grades. Includes Music Together, yoga, and more. Contact Miss. Ahzea Makhubu at 773 324-0947, hydeparkcenter@sbcglobal.net.773 324-0947.
    Hyde Park Development Center offers a comprehensive pre-school program within a unique home-like, literacy rich environment. Teachers provide a nurturing atmosphere in which children learn and develop on a variety of levels, including socially, cognitively, linguistically, and physically. The families admitted to the program place a high-value on education and expect the best for their child. Hyde Park Development Center maintains exceptional parent-teacher communication through daily reports, photos e-mailed to parents, and family events designed to foster the school community. The center takes a holistic approach to children’s health and wellness through providing healthy vegetarian meals and daily time spent outdoors for fresh air, physical activity, and sunshine. The development center provides an exceptional level of quality programming through the gentle care provided to the students, professional communication with parents, and attractive classroom layouts.
  • Hyde Park Jewish Community Center Early Childhood Services, 5200 S. Hyde Park Blvd., 773 773 653-3080 Sandy Cutler. Reg. open 2004-5.
  • K.A.M. Isaiah Israel Nursery School, 5039 S. Greenwood/1100 E. Hyde Park Blvd., 773 924-1234. info@kamii.org. Fran Gordon, Director. Pre-toddler 18 mo-3, nursery 3-5. Enr 36.
  • Kemit Learning Center. Day care, preschool, after school. Spanish, Kindemusik, Educational field trips. Prt of the Baby Ph.D. Network. 773 268-4454.
  • Little People Learning Center at First Unitarian, 5650 S. Woodlawn Ave., 773 955-9942. Rosa Thomas, Director
  • Little People's Playhouse, 4530 S. Ellis, 773 268-4995. Daycare 6 weeks to 12 years.
  • Parent Cooperative for Early Learning or e-mail, 5300 South Shore Drive. 773 684-6363. Karen V. Maurer? Barbara Branson and Amelia Fairley interim directors, William Weaver board president, contact Monica foster at mnc_foster@yahoo.com. Ages 2-6 Incl. summer camp through age 8. Preschool 2-5s day-long year-long.
  • (Marsha's) Music Together
  • Monica Stevens Productions. Var. dance at HPNeigh Club, Pre-school Computer Academy, 5420 S. Hyde Park Blvd. 773 363-6098. Well attended dance recitals at end of class sessions.
  • Sunflower Children's Garden. Waldorf-based (the "fastest growing nonsectarian education movement in the world.") For ages 2-6. 4945 S. Dorchester. 773 973-7416. Elizabeth Swisher executive director. Variety of schedules, most morning. Stresses stimulation of imagination in natural settings.
  • St. Thomas the Apostle, 5467 S. Woodlawn, 773 667-1142. Dorothy Murphy, Principal
  • University of Chicago Laboratory Nursery School and Kindergarten, 5750 S. Woodlawn Ave., 773 834-1911, also listed as 1362 E. 59th St, 773 702-9451. Carla Young, Principal.
  • And don't forget park fieldhouses- Nichols, Kennicott, Kenwood, South Shore Cultural Center, Washington

Elementary [grades 0-4/6] Public then Private, then Religious. (Most Public School contact information is in the table below)

Middle Schools [grades 5/6-8] (Most Public School contact information is in the table below; addresses and phones are in the sections above and below.)

High Schools [grade 9-12] (Most Public School contact information is in the table below.)

Colleges, and additional preschool and tutoring services are in Education Resources.

 

Public Schools in Area 15 and how they scored on ISAT in 2002 (more detailed and recent information in the Tests and Rankings page)

School (*on CPS probation) % on ISAT % on ITBS Gains/Growth over year(s)

Ariel Community 50.8 68.5 Does not meet standards
Canter Middle 47.9 54.3 Meets
Carnegie 55.8 57.0 Meets
Donoghue 25.0 28.9 Exceeds
Doolittle Middle 29.4 23.4 Does not meet
Doolittle West 29.4 31.4 Meets
Dulles 22.0 24.9 Does not meet*
Dumas 25.5 32.2 Meets
Fermi 24.8 23.6 Does not meet*
Fiske 23.7 23.3 Does not meet*
Harte 54.5 54.1 Exceeds and up considerably since
Kozminski 27.7 35.3 Does not meet but substantial improvement since
Mayo 39.7 38.6 Meets
McCosh 43.3 31.8 Does not meet
Murray 84.1 94.1 Meets
(North-Kenwood-Oakland-in Area 15? is in supercluster. With scores above 50% meets
)
Pershing Magnet 58.8 68.5 Does not meet
Ray 67.3 78. Meets and up some since
Raymond 15.9 17.3 Does not meet*
Reavis 30.7 39.8 Does not meet. Went on probation fall 2004 (only one in HPK)
Robinson 26.5 29.2 Does not meet
Sexton 22.3 29.1 Does not meet
Shoesmith 47.0 51.8 Meets
Wadsworth 29.6 29.7 Does not meet
Wells Prep 39.3 30.2 Does not meet
Woodlawn Comm. School 51.4 55.6 Meets

Top

Two clusters with one or more member schools in HPK

Ariel Charter, Doolittle Middle, Doolittle West, Fuller, North Kenwood-Oakland Charter, Price, Jackie Robinson
Canter, Harte, Murray, Ray, Shoesmith

Top

Charter schools in the area

Ariel Community Charter. 1119 E. 46th St., 773 535-1996. (Ariel Foundation). Co-housed in former Shakespeare School (expected also to house St. Ambrose) with U of C's North Kenwood Oakland.

North Kenwood-Oakland Charter School. (University of Chicago.) 1119 E. 46th St., 773 536-2399

Woodlawn Community. 6407 S. Blackstone, 773 535-0801

Top

Table of public schools with addr/phone, LSC calendar, uniform policy, principal, and lsc or alternative chairperson

 

Colleen Conlan, Miriam Canter School, 4959 S. Blackstone Ave, Chicago, IL 60615, 535-1410. Vice Principal: Zaneta Abdul-Ahad is the Vice Principal. LSC Chair: Denina Smith

Jacquelyn Lemon, Walter H. Dyett Academic Center, 555 E. 51st St., Chicago, IL 60615, 535-1825. LSC Chair not selected yet.

Shenethe Parks, Bret Harte School,1556 E. 56th St., Chicago, Il 60637, 535-0870. LSC Chair: Diane Daisy

Elizabeth Kirby, Kenwood Academy, 5015 S. Blackstone Ave., Chicago, IL 60615, 535-1350, ekirby@cps.k12.il.us. LSC Chair: Anthony Vinson

Lionel Bordelon, Charles Kozminski Community Academy, 936 E. 54th St, Chicago Il 60615, 535-0980, lbordelon@cps.k12.il.us. LSC Chair: Debra Batte

Michael Keno, Phillip Murray Language Academy, 5335 S. Kenwood Ave, Chicago IL 60615, 535-0585. LSC Chair: Lori Watts-Branch

Bernadette Butler, William H. Ray School, 5631 S. Kimbark Ave., Chicago, IL 60637, 535-0970. LSC Chair: Michael Scott

Michael T. Johnson, William Claude Reavis School, 834 E. 50th St., Chicago IL 60615, 535-1060. LSC Chair: Regina Little

Mrs. Patricia Watson, Beulah Shoesmith School, 1330 E. 50th St., Chicago, IL 60615, 535-1764, ppwatson@cps.k12.il.us. LSC Chair: Sherri Donald, co-chair Theodore E. Moran, Jr.

School Address Calendar Uniform Contact:
Ariel Comm. Academy 1110 E. 46th
(773) 535-1996
Meets second Tuesday of the month at 5:30 starting Aug. 31 lt blue top, navy bot. Principal Lynnette Coleman
LSC chair Virma Holmes
Miriam G. Canter Middle School

4959 South Blackstone
(773) 535-1410

Meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 pm preceded by PTO at 5:30 no uniform Principal Colleen Conlan
LSC chair Tracy McCann
Walter H. Dyett Academic Center 555 E. 51st
(773) 535-1825
Meets the 2nd Friday of the month at 5:30 pm 7th-8th gold tops black bot, high sch white tops collars black bots. Boys bl. ties. Principal-Jacquelyn Lemon
LSC chair Yvette Green
Bret Harte School 1556 East 56th Street
(773) 535-0870
Meets the second Tuesday of the Month at 6 pm. (PTO 5:30). white or blue tops, blue bots. Principal Shenthe Parks
LSC chair Diane Daisy
Kenwood Academy High School

5015 South Blackstone
(773) 535-1350

June 5 6:30 pm (PAC 5:30). Standing date to be set this summer. no uniform Principal Elizabeth Kirby
LSC president (Shiela Wasnga?)
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. College Prep High Sch. 4445 S. Drexel Blvd.
773 535-1180
Meets the 3rd Friday at 6 pm. uniform ? Principal Jeffrey Wright
LSC chair Thomas English
Charles Kozminski Community Academy

936 East 54th
(773) 535-0980

Meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 pm white tops, blue bots Principal Lionel Bordelon
LSC chair Debra J. Battee
Phillip Murray Language Academy

5335 South Kenwood
(773) 535-0585

Meets the third Wednesday of the month at 6:00 pm; PTO 1st Wednesday at 6:00 pm

no uniform Principal Michael Keno (filling unexp. term)
LSC chair Lori Watts-Branch
PTO chair Juliana Statton
North Kenwood-Oakland Charter 1119 E. 46th St. (773) 536-2399 PTCO meets the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 pm. uniform? Stacey Beardsley, Director, PTCO co-chairs Veronica Thompson, Juanita Mahdi
Florence B. Price Fine Arts Elem. School 4351 S. Drexel Blvd.
(773) 535-1300
Meets on thesecond Monday of the month at 5:00 pm white tops, green bots Dr. Gwen E. McClinton, Principal
LSC chair Janice Freeman
William H. Ray Elementary School 5631 South Kimbark
(773) 535-0970
Meets the second Monday of the month at 6 pm; PTO 3rd Monday 6:30 pm. no uniform Bernadette Butler
LSC chair Michael Scott, PTA Cheryl Mainor
Claude H. Reavis Elementary School 834 East 50th
(773) 535-1060
Meets the 2nd Thursday of the month at 5:30 pm white or blue tops, blue bots Principal Michael Johnson
LSC chair Regina Little
Beulah Shoesmith Elementary School 1330 East 50th St
(773) 535-1764
Meets the first Wednesday of the month at at 5:30 white tops, navy blue pants Principal Patricia Watson
LSC chair Sherri Donald, co-ch Theodore E. Moran, Jr.

 

Details on specific area schools

See more and topical information in News from the Schools, Canter Middle, and Kenwood Academy

Public Elementary through High

Abbreviated and modified from March 3, 2004 Hyde Park Herald, using material submitted by each school. ITBS = Iowa test scores; Prairie State is the test for high school juniors. Scores to be updated--see Tests and Rankings page..

Ariel Community Academy
1119 E. 46th 535-1996
Principal Lennette Coleman, LSC chair Virma Holmes

A small public charter school, preK-8th. Class size 24, 2 rms per grade. Enr. 410.
A Math and Science Magnet Cluster School (1st with nat'l. rec. as a Magnet School of America School of Excellence.)
Enr. applic. only. Closed campus 8:30-2:30. Uniforms.
2006 Scores: Overall state 76.5, ISAT Reading 71.7 of 3rd gr. in 2006-up 17%
( ITBS Math 88.6 up 10%.) Students above norm.
Mission: Through a collaborative school-family-community partnership, ...we educate and nurture our students to ensure that each and every child reaches his or her full potential-socially, emotionally, cognitively and physically.

Miriam G. Canter
4959 S. Blackstone
535-1410
Principal Coleen Conlan
LSC chair Rhonda Hawkins-Lyke. Visit our Canter page.
7th-8th middle for Hyde Park Cluster, feeds Kenwood. Recently instituted, gathering funds for addn/renovation. Uses "Global Village" curriculum: languages, technology, comm. outreach. Classes are in "pods"-interdisciplinary teams with more than one adult per class. Works with outside and afterschool providers such as Hyde Park Art Center.
Enr. 255.
ISBT Overall 77.3 up 18, Math 73.8 up c.30, Reading 77.6 up 1.

Walter H. Dyett Acad. Ctr.
555 E. 51st 535-1825
Principal: Jacquelyn Lemon
LSC chair Yvette Green

7th-12th neighborhood high. Enr 600. Uniforms.
ISAT Overall 7th and 8th 23.4 up 6, Read 29.2 down 8, Math 17.4 up 11? PSAE not avail.
Bret Harte Math & Sc. Academy
1556 E. 56th St. 535-0870
Principal Shenethe Parks
LSC chair Diane Daisy

Pre-K-6th neighborhood school in Hyde Park Magnet Cluster, pre-6th. Enr. 410. Class size av.32. Restructured day 9 am-2:45.
Uses U of C Everyday Math and Balanced Literacy. Students 3-8 are in Accelerated Reader Program. Computer lab on Internet. Media center specialist. Phys ed instr. on staff. Participates in Lighthouse program 3 days per week 2:30-4. Special ed. Uniforms.
Bret Harte is a CPS neighborhood school in the Hyde Park Magnet Cluster with a math/science focus from pre-kindergarten through 6th grade. Our pre-kindergarten program is a half-day program, while our kindergarten program is full day for those residing in our attendance area.... Restructured day allows staff to be engaged in meaningful professional development once per month.
Our magnet cluster focus is in the area of math/science and technology. In our math program, student in grades K-6 are using the University of Chicago Everyday Math... Students in grades 3-8 are required to participate in the (modified) Accelerated Reader Program by reading a minimum of six chapter books per quarter. Our computer lab and the majority of our classrooms are networked and connected to the the Internet. Bret Harte has a full-time media center specialist and physical education instructor on staff. Our school participates in the Lighthouse program three days per week from 2:30 to 4 pm.
Mission: to challenge each student. We are committed to fostering an environment of excellence, responsibility and diversity regardless of culture, ability or learning styles; accomplished through professional development, structured learning experiences and parental support.

Overall scores 3rd graders ISAT 2006 73, Math 78.4 up, Reading 70.6.

Kenwood Academy
5015 S. Blackstone Ave. 535-1330
Principal Elizabeth Kirby
LSC president Shiela Wasnga? More in Kenwood page

4 year high with Academic Center for gifted 4th-8th graders, magnet program for 500 high school students, college prep program. Total enr. 1,684 . Neighborhood but a proportion from all over the city. Magnet competitive program incl. accelerated and select U of C courses or dual enrollment (jr & sr)-Excel and College Bridge programs. 150 in Kenwood Scholars program. All students mentored- prog. incl. U of C students. Heavy stress on extracurricular skills and leadership. 85% of grads attend college. Consistent National Merit semifinalists. Faculty 7: 106 w 75% MA.
Kenwood Academy, a four-year high school with an Academic Center for gifted seventh and eighth grade students an a strong college preparatory program, has a total enrollment of 1,664 students. It serves students who live in the neighborhood as well as those from all over the city who enroll in the special seventh through twelfth grade Options for Knowledge program. This is a competitive program which offers students the opportunity to take accelerated high school classes, including the option of enrolling in selected courses at the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago. Juniors and seniors may have dual enrolment at Kenwood and the University of Chicago through the CPS Excel and College Bridge programs.
Kenwood academy currently has over 150 students enrolled in its Kenwood scholars program which is designed to provide additional opportunities and support for more students to 1) take advanced level courses in at least one academic area, 2) participate in leadership building activities and 3) develop the intellectual approach and behavior of a scholar. Incoming freshmen will be encouraged to devise four-year plans that include at least one advanced level course. Some interested incoming freshmen may elect to participate in an accelerated mathematics, pre-architecture or foreign language program. All incoming and current freshmen will participate in community service projects during their four years of high school. Additionally, all freshmen and sophomores participate in the Junior Academy program in which students are mentored by by teachers and upperclassmen so that they develop positive social study skills necessary to succeed in high school.
The curriculum at Kenwood is enhanced by field trips, guest speakers an visits by major performing artists. Computer laboratories are available for instructional assistance, remediation, enrichment, word processing and research using on-line services. After-school tutoring is available in all academic areas. Peer tutors staff the Athletes' Tutoring Table, and the Neighborhood Schools Project of the University of Chicago provides undergraduates who work along with Kenwood teachers.
In addition to other programs offered to support accelerated student achievement, Kenwood is entering its third year of the AVID program... designed to increase school wide learning and performance for students. Students are eligible to interview for admission into the AVID class as an incoming freshman and to commit to stay in the program for four years. The mission of AVID is to ensure that all students, especially the least served students in the middle, capable of completing a college preparatory path will succeed in a rigorous curriculum and increase their enrollment in four-year colleges.
Kenwood offers a rich variety of award-winning student activities, including: a full range of athletic teams, student council, student leadership team, three honor societies, choirs, bands, literary publications, service and social awareness clubs and special interest activities.
Typically, 85 percent of the graduating class attend four-year colleges. Kenwood students are consistently recognized as National Merit and National Achievement semifinalists. The faculty consists of 106 teachers, 75 percent of whom have an M. A. degree and most of whom regularly participate in professional development opportunities.

Tests Overall 51.9, ISAT Read 100% 8th gr, Math 100% 8th gr, PSAE (2005) Reading 58.2, Math 38.

Martin Luther King College Prep High School
4445 S. Drexel Blvd. 535-1180
Principal Jeffrey Wright
LSC chair Thomas English
Enr. 900. Recently transitioned into a magnet school emphasizing performing arts, architecture, technology. Unusual include swimming, gymnastics. $25 m renovation in progress. Gymnastics program excels. Arguably the best pool on the south side. Currently has all high school grades.
King College Prep High School is a modern, urban high shcool...The primary mission of King.. is to prepare its students for matriculation to colleges and universities . King is a multi-cultual high school whose stud net body is 94 percent black with the remaining consisting of Asian, Latino and white.
King's curriculum features the normal core subject areas of mathematics, science, social science and English. It also provides major concentrations in the visual and performing arts, architectural drawing and information technology. Also among it course offerings are advanced placement classes in U.S. history, government, chemistry, biology, physics, literature, photography and art.
Athletically, King is second to none. King offers football, basketball, soccer, swimming, tennis, cross-country, wrestling, track and field, baseball, softball, volleyball and golf. Cheerleading and pom-pom round out the athletic pursuits. This year King won their division city championship in football and because of their back-to-back record of 17 to 8 in basketball, they will now compete in the city's Red Division finals.
..King graduated its first senior class June 2006. One hundred and ninety students graduated with 96 percent of the class being accepted to four year colleges and universities across the country.
2006 Test scores not yet available. 2005 Overall 49, PSAE reading 67.9, Math 39.6.
Charles Kozminski Academy
936 E. 54th St. 535-0980
Principal Lionel Bordelon
LSC chair Debra J. Battee

PreK-8th. community academy. Closed campus 7:30-1:30. (2006 says 8:30-2:45 with after school to 4. Class size av 20:1 ratio. Enr. 441 (also given as 500). Science and math lab, technology plan, fine arts and music, reading and math After-School Academy, summer Social Center. Chess and full range of activities including pom-pom, student government, jazz band, boys' and girls' basketball, football. 45% of faculty has advanced degrees.

Kozminski [is] a Literature and Writing Magnet Cluster School [and] provides and enriched curriculum to students pre-k through eighth grade. Kozminski's academic focus is on balanced literacy across grades, classrooms and content areas enhanced and supported through the Literature and writing Magnet Cluster. Kozminski, a 2005-06 CPS School of Opportunity, typically enrolls more than 500 students each year with the majority of students residing within the attendance area and the remaining attending through the CPS Options for Knowledge Program. 9:30 am-2:45 pm.

The Afterschool Counts (reading and math) and Afterschool All Stars (leadership and recreation) programs operates from October through May. In addition to reading and math other after school offerings include: drama, children's choir, string ensemble, pom pom/dance, Internet broadcast group, Great Books club and Kaleidoscope newspaper. Parents and community are included in a variety of activities including Family Reading Night, Family Math and Science Night, Outstanding Student Dinners, open house and the ever important Family Computer Literacy and Loan Program. Neighborhood partnerships include the University of Chicago Neighborhood Schools program, Blue Gargoyle Family Literacy program, Metro Squash program, u. of C. CUIP (CPS Internet project) and Digital Library, Museum of Science and Industry, DuSable Museum of African American History, PUSH/Rainbow Coalition, ICONS Foundation, The Poetry Center of Chicago, and the National Guard. Attendance rate 93.7.
2006 Test Scores. Overall 60.5, ISAT Read 40.8, Math 53.1. 3rd graders--slippage 10 in reading, 15 in math but in some cats. substantial improvement.

Phillip Murray Language Academy
5335 S. Kenwood. 553-0585
Principal Michael Keno
LSC chair Lori Watts-Branch, PTO pres. Julie Stratton

K-6 magnet school. Daily French, Japanese, or Spanish K-6th. Enr c350 , by application and lottery only. Stable school pop. divided (2005) between neighborhood and all-city, 23% white, 69 African-American, 7 Hispanic and Asian. Mobility rate 3%. Closed campus 8:45-2:30 Attendance rate 96 percent, mobility rate of 3 percent. Half-day inservices for staff development. Admission by lottery. Att. rate. 96, enrollment 411.
Cooperative efforts with the University of Chicago provide resources to assist students and staff, including technology and teacher training. Rigorous academic program stresses engaged learning and higher-level thinking skills. Accelerated Reader, U of C Math, hands-on science provide a challenging curriculum. Active parent groups support the school by providing numerous evening, family activities and fund-raising. New additions include science lab and regulation sized gym; park setting for additional programs.

Test results. Overall performance on state: 78 (down) , ISAT Reading 76, Math 82 3rd grade. Some slippage.

Mission: to provide a safe, nurturing environment that attends to the needs of individual students and encourages them to become lifelong learners in a world whose challenges are increasingly global in scope. To that end, the study of a foreign language enhances student's chances for success and provides them with an appreciation for diversity.

North Kenwood-Oakland Charter School (UC Center for Urban
School Improvement )
pre-5 at 1119 E 46th St. 536-2399, 6-8 at
1014 E. 47th St.
Director Stacy Beardsley
PTCO co-chairs Veronica Thompson, Juanita Mahdi . Note: 6-8th graders will move to UC Charter Carter G. Woodson campus, 4414 S. Evans fall 2008.
PreK-8th U of Charter school. Currently pre, K, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7?. Adding. 8:30-3, with early and to 6 pm extensions available and one full-day pre-kindergartens. Sliding fees, entry by lottery (applic. due March 15 annually to Beverly Prince.) Enr. 421.
The charter school, operated by the Center for School Improvement at the University of Chicago and staffed by veteran teachers, is a tuition-free public school open to all residents of Chicago. Admission is by lottery. There are no entrance requirements other than parental willingness to play an active role in their children's education. Committed to providing challenging learning experiences for students in all areas, with special emphasis on literacy and mathematics. The arts and technology are interwoven into all areas of learning. Although children master basic skills, the school goes beyond them to encourage inquiry and higher-order thinking. Applic. deadline March 15 attn. Beverly Prince.
2007 Test results. Overall 70.0 up 9, ISAT Math 74 (up substantially) , Reading 65 up 8.
Florence B. Price Elementary School of Fine Arts
4351 S. Drexel Blvd.
535-1300
Principal Dr. Gwendolyn McClinton
LSC chair Janice Freeman

PreK-8th performing and fine arts school. Enr. 516. Along with the regular curriculum, students receive additional coursework in dance, drama, art, music. Augmented arts program: Students will sign up for block classes in one of those categories and receive lengthy, ongoing training in the afternoon Faculty members recently received training to implement intelligence-based teaching styles that gear instruction toward each student's learning needs. With the assistance of grant money from the Board of Education and the University of Chicago, teachers receive special training in computer skills and Internet access. Special education programs are offered for students who are cognitively delayed and who have communication disorders. Students are mainstreamed as much as possible. Uniforms. Enr 288.


The faculty, staff and partnerships of Price believe that the integration of Fine Arts with multicultural experiences can produce an environment where all students will prosper. We recognize that academics alone will not produce a viable educational program. We support the multiple intelligence approach and embrace the concept of full inclusion to ensure a quality education for all students. Therefore, we are committed to a safe and secure environment that increases academic and social proficiency, while nurturing and sustaining the concept of individuality. We believe that the focus placed on building a strong character, positive self-awareness, and developing leadership skills must be part of our planning and activities on a daily basis.
Our mission is to provide a variety of learning experiences that would allow all students to become knowledgeable and caring about the environment in which they live. We subscribe to the philosophy that the mind and the body must work in harmony to produce the best human being possible in the 21st century.


2006 Test scores. Overall 42.9 up 14, ISAT reading 3rd 38.6 up 23, Math 40.4 up 12.

 

William H. Ray School
5631 S. Kimbark Ave.
535-0970
Principal Bernadette Butler
LSC chair Michael Scott
PTA pres Cheryl Mainor
RayPTA@Ameritech.net
PreK-6 plus special ed. for hearing impaired and moderate learning disabilities (cross-categorical), English as a Second Language. International Baccalaureate program. Spanish in all grades. Part of the CPS/U of C Internet Project (CUIP). Enr. 659. Uniforms. [need info on entry/locale requirement, campus open or closed, Mission]
2006 Test scores: Overall 79.3 up 7, ISAT 3rd gr. Read 74.4 up 1+, Math 89.5 up 9.
William Claude Reavis Sch
834 E. 50th St. 535-1060
Principal Michael Johnson
LSC chair Regina Little

Head Start-8. Math and science focus neighborhood students. Enr. 604. Two Head Starts and three early childhood Spec. Ed. programs (Inclusion). Grants for African American emphasis in math and science and dev. of a multicultural museum. Uses the Inclusion Model. Major tutoring programs. Almost all from outside neighborhood and minority.
Reavis is for students in Head Start through eighth grade. The school has a math and science focus for neighborhood students. There are two state Head start programs for students
ages 3 and 4. There are three early childhood Special Education classes, which are of the Inclusion model. Enr. 430.

2006 Test scores. Overall 45.8 up 18, ISAT 3rdgr. Reading 51.3 up 23, Math 59 up 31.I

Jackie R. Robinson
4425 S. Lake Park Ave.
535-1777
Principal Rita Johnson
LSC chair April Ward

K-8. Voluntary Saturday academies in reading and math. Lighthouse and social center afterschool. Partners in drama and arts, esp. Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center and Lyric Opera. Techmates partnership with U of C-students design web pages etc. Komed Health Center counseling. Special ed cross-categorical classrooms with more coming. Enr. 317.

A magnet cluster school with concentrations on language arts and writing. Serves students in Head Start through 3rd grade. Enr. 380. 99% minority mostly from outside the neighborhood. A school that is rising. The instructional program offers gifted classes in first through third grade. The selection of students is based on local norms. The school offers differentiated instruction to academically advanced students. Teachers are trained through the Office of Academic Enhancement with the CPS Gifted Program. This year our students exceeded the Average Yearly Progress Target in both reading and math.
Robinson partners with various organizations and corporations enhancing the learning environment of our school and our students. Abraham Lincoln Community services, KOMED Medical Facility, Quad Communities Development Corporation, the Sue Duncan Children's Center (after school), Erikson Institute, One Stop Foods, and the University of Chicago... Robinson welcomes special needs students into an inclusion program that addresses the diverse learner and adapts the classroom environment to meet their needs. Robinson also offers a comprehensive after school program and accepts Child Initiative Vouchers from the State of Illinois for a nominal fee. The program helps with homework, dance, arts and crafts, and a hot meal is served daily. Mon-Fri through 6:45 pm.
2006 Test scores. Overall 50.9 up 8, ISAT 3rd gr. Read 46.6 up 28, Math 55.2 up 28.

Beulah Shoesmith
1330 E. 50th St.
535-1765
Principal Patricia P. Watson
LSC chair Rochelle Speller

PreK-6. Shoesmith School is a neighborhood school which serves students in grades Kindergarten through 6th. Enr. 375. Class size 24. 8:30-2:45. Shoesmith is a member of the Hyde Park Magnet Cluster Program and proudly partners with the University of Chicago, St. Paul and the Redeemer Church, First Baptist Church, Kenwood Improvement Association, Chicago Park District. Music is a main emphasis with a great program with partnerships as well as] technology and computer lab. Extracurricular programs. Enr. 375.
Our mission is to provide quality instructional programs for all students to insure they become responsible, independent, life-long learners.

ISAT 2006 Overall 72.8 up 22, Reading 79.1 (3rd up 20, 5th 52 up 12), Math 93 (3rd up 20, 5th 76.4 up 17).

Major private schools above preschool (More in second table plus check additional in preschool) (University of Chicago Charter schools are CPS schools and are outside of but serve the immediate area- they incude North Kenwood-Oakland, Donogue, Carter G. Woodson Middle (opening fall 2008), and Woodlawn High.

Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School, 5235 S. Cornell Ave., 773 493-8880

Principal Miriam Schiller, Preschool Director Carla Goldberg

2-4 yr olds and K-8. 8:30-3:30, drop-off from 7:45, afterschool clubs M-Th to 5:15. Parent-tot Th, F 9-10:30. Summer program June 12-August 4. Parent board. Enr. 225. Gen studies-reading, witting, social st., math, science. Hebrew, Jewish history, Bible. Art music, computers, gym, instr. swim.
Akiba-Schechter offers challenging academics, a nurturing environment, small classes, and inspiring teachers working in partnership with students and parents since 1949. The school year at Akiba runs from September to June. Programs include the Parent-Tot program, preschool for 2, 3 4 year olds and kindergarten through 8th grade. Pre tuition $4900, reg. $9,995.
Enr. 260. After school M-Th to 5:15.

...provides a safe, stimulating, nurturing environment in which children learn through active exploration and play. Dedicated to secular and Judaic academic excellence. By cultivating the individual gifts and needs of each student, our teachers create a caring family of learners committed to responsible citizenship and the performance of mitzvot.

Torah, play and worship join together as students explore their heritage and their world. The pre-school experience at Akiba-Schechter encourages children to develop curiosity, attempt challenging activities and to feel good about themselves. Celebration of Jewish holidays and customs brings awareness of the joy surrounding the Jewish heritage.

Miriam Schiller Principal, Jill Beigel Assoc. Dir., Carla Goldberg Pre-school Dir.

The Ancona School
4770 S. Dorchester Ave., 924-2356
Principal Bonnie Wishne

Montessori-practicing school K-8. Interactive learning in multi-age classrooms that emphasize responsibility, collaboration and individual challenge. Must be 3 by Sept. 1.
Pre-primary children pursue active, creative purposeful learning in the montessori classroom. In the multi-age environment, children make choices, develop independence and learn to work collaboratively. The developmentally appropriate program includes music, computers, and physical education. Classes 8:15-11:30. Before and after are avail. for addl. cost. Enr. 92.
8:15-11:30 for preschool (enr. 92)

Elementary program includes integrated technology, Spanish, art, music, phys ed, field experiences, integrated technologies, Spanish, art, music, phys ed., field trips and camping, , biodiversity projects. The school is a rich community of cultural, racial and economic diversity. 8:15-3 pm. Before and after programs additional cost. Enr. 260 elem.

The Ancona School educates students to become creative problem solvers, confident risk takers and independent lifelong learners. We inspire children to nourish their inner lives, find the power in their own voices and strive for justice and peace.

Bonnie L. Wishne Director, Pam Pifer Dir Ed dev, Carol Parham, Dir Admissions.

Hales Franciscan High School
4930 S. Cottage Grove Ave. 773 285-8400

All-male high school 9-12. 7:45-3:30. Enr 350. College prep with honors curriculum requiring 7 1/2 years of English, four semesters of religion/moral training; four years of math and science, four and 1/2 social studies, 3 of a foreign language, one of art and music, and two semesters computer training. 100 percent expectation of entering university. Individualized tutoring. Exemplary Private High School in U.S. Recent recipient of UC+ beautification grant. One of 24 U.S. schools with a model program.
The school's motto is Unto Perfect Manhood. In addition to a Christian atmosphere, the school stresses multi-culturalism with particular emphasis on the African American tradition.

John Young, Principal; Dwayne Evanson student/acad. affairs.

The Hyde Park Day School, Erna Heller Hall
1375 E. 60th St. 877 477-5665

Ages 6-13. A full range of educational options for students with learning disabilities. U of C campus private, not-for-profit day (formerly Orthogenic School) school for children with moderate to severe learning disabilities of average to above average intelligence. Day school, summer reading program, intensive tutoring services. Integrated curriculum with arts, technology, multi-sensory approach central. Goal is to develop self-understanding of their learning disabilities, a positive attitude towards school, strategies to compensate for challenges, and academic and social skills to transition back. Goals of the intensive tutoring program is to offer remediation and opportunity to develop strategies for compensating. Summer program offers multi-sensory reading in conj. with UC Lab Schools summer programming.
Dr. Pamela Adelman, Executive Director,

St. Thomas the Apostle Elementary School
5467 S. Woodlawn Av., 773 667-1142. Principal Dorothy Murphy

PreK-8th. 7:55-2:45. Hot lunch avail. for STA students. Morning care from 7-7:45, afternoon 2:45-5:45 . Hot lunch. Enr. 225.
Pre-7 have self-contained classrooms, jr high is departmental. Parish-owned, governed by parent/parish elected board. Enr. priority given to parishioners, siblings, Catholics, Hyde Park-Kenwood residents. Open House registration is March 21 (3rd Sat. March). $5,000
Reading, math, wring, history, social studies, science lab for jr high, computer, transitional math, Family Life, music, phys ed, Spanish. Two libraries. In the top 5% of young-education programs recognized by NAEYC.

..provides moral and religious training as essential elements of a complete education. We also propose to impart the skills, habits and attitudes commensurate with the child's age and ability. Our educational program is concerned with all aspects of the child's growth and development. It is our goal to prepare the child to live in our contemporary society within the context of a Christian education community, a community in which children can develop their unique gifts through which they can cooperate in the transformation of society in justice and peace.

Dorothy Murphy, principal; Robin Bland, board president

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
1362 E. 59th St., 773 702-9451
Director Dave Magill

PreK-12th. 8 am-3:20. Affiliated with U of C. Enr. 1,715. 35% minority. A rigorous, creative, well-rounded education for a diverse student body. The developmentally-based curriculum includes a literature-based reading program, math and social studies, music, art, foreign language (French, German or Spanish from 3rd grade), phys ed, computers, science lab in Lower School. Drama and Latin and 14 Advanced Placement courses avail. in the Middle or High schools. Two extensive libraries with over 80,000 volumes. Sophomores and higher also have access to UC libraries.

Nursery and Kinder garden School: 3-5 (age approp. by Aug. 1). Nonrrefundable applic of $75, tour, play group, parent interview. Teacher child ratio 1:7. M-F, morning or afternoon 8;30-noon, 1-4:30, full day 8:30-2:10. Afterschool til 5:30. Enr. 180, 20% minority. Snacks provided, closes mid-June-mid-Sept. Ration 1:7.

Our classrooms are organized so that children learn to play and play to learn. Teachers design the curriculum to encourage curiosity and reflective thinking, develop social responsibility, support healthy social-emotional adjustment and build confidence and competence in children.

The Nursery and Kindergarten Schools serves children age 3 to 5. Must be age approp. by Aug. 1. Interviews and non-refundable deposit required.

David W. Magill, Director. Carla Young, Principal. High School Principal Matthew Horvat.

More:

Some elementary and preschools not in preceding tables (Ariel, Harte, Kozminski, North Kenwood, Price, Ray, Reavis, Robinson, Shoesmith, Akiba-Schechter, Ancona, St. Thomas, UC Lab.)

Cambridge School of Chicago
4611 S. Ellis, 60653. 773 924-1200 http://www.cambridgechicago.com
CambridgeChicago@aol.com.

Headmaster and Exec. Director Derek M. Barber

PreK-4rd grade currently. Cambridge School is a "education as unique as your child." Features of this school include its strong faith-based foundation, and integrated classical curriculum where all disciplines relate to one another, an individual learning plan for each child, strong parental involvement from a community of dedicated parents, purposely small class sizes, two highly trained teachers in each classroom who seek to facilitate the educational objectives, inquiry-based science, hands-on project based learning, and an encouraging an supportive environment. Students read from the classics and are engaged in writing on a daily basis. Students are assessed for mastery, provided opportunities to learn and engage outside the classroom, and participate in the learning process with great enthusiasm and joy. The key to Cambridge is constant evaluation and improvement toward the mastery of national standards by providing the tools for learning. Students learn how to think and develop the sharp reasoning skills necessary to be competitive in the world, while generous enough to be be productive citizens.

Beyond the core subjects of math, science, technology, phonics, literature, language arts, history, writing, music, visual art, drama and physical education, students also learn Latin, Greek, Spanish, economics and entrepreneurship. By the time a student graduates from Cambridge, he is able to provide an intelligent response to any question posed to him, and thus live purposefully and intelligently in the service of God and humanity.

To prepare children for high academic standards, in a university model using a classical curriculum to the glory of God. Founder has researched how excelling private schools are so. What this school will be like:
university model using partnerships with local professors,
individual learning plan for each child w. teacher as tutor, Socratic dialogue grades 4-8,
classical curriculum stressing liberal arts and thinking process and classics-only literature-for-exposure,
very small class size w master teachers at every grade level,
integrated math, science, technology,
True Phonics for 3 years starting at age 3, foundational spelling using Latin and Greek
Cambridge Mathematics for pre-grade 5,
educ. field trips and group projects, community service,
daily poetry and scripture memorization and recitation,
strong parental involvement.
"working in partnership within the community with parents to educate and train your child. Our desire is to equip parents to raise children who are committed to growing in Christ, know how to make wise decisions, and can engage with the world in which they live as productive citizens. As a participant in this education, your child has a life-changing opportunity to develop excellent relationships with God and other children, within a diverse setting of students coming from all parts of the city, representing various races, socio-economic classes, ages, and other cultures. Has a summer university camp for Ages 4 to 9.

The Cambridge School emphasizes the individual learning approach to education. The staff consults closely with you, the parent, in tailoring the program and curriculum to the individual needs of your child. A flexible, individualized approach to education makes The Cambridge School a suitable place for students with a variety of learning styles and differences.

A safe, caring, encouraging, and diverse environment where students love to learn, learn to lead, and lead to serve."
$6,700-$8,000. Enr. 50
Founder and Director Derek M. Barber

Centers for New Horizons
hq. 3950 S. State, 773 667-0666.
No longer at Hyde Park Union Church- call general org. to find nearest center, which must be fairly near since University of Chicago just gave a substantial grant. Ages 3-5. Staff help children develop socially, emotionally, cognitively, language wise and physically. $150 per week or may be subsidized.
Zena Smith, Director
The Children's House at Harper Square- has closed. There is a traditional daycare center there, but not one that is Montessori certified.
4800 S. Lake Park Ave. 773 373-3000 (May be closed)
 

Creative Mansion Children's Academy, Inc.
4745 S. Ellis Ave., 773 268-6066

Director: Marjorie Jones

2 year olds through advanced kindergarten. 2 year olds $700 mo plus potty tr. $25, 3-5 $650. Before and after School w transportation $305, Reading Enrichment'Mathe Advance Camp for 5-6 $175 week. Rect'l Summer Camp for 6-10s $110 per week. Year round 6:39 am-6 pm. Appl. fee $50. recreation camp $25. Enr. 115.
We are the "Christian alternative" in early learning. We dare to be different. We offer a full foreign language program. Our school is housed in one of the beautiful mansions of historic Kenwood. Our curriculum has a strong academic focus, yet a Christian emphasis that instills values while building confidence, self-esteem and character. ...creativity and exploration. Closed circuit TV monitored. Parenting classes are offered.

Our preschool offers a unique, outstanding curriculum that embraces academic excellence through use of the ADEKA and Creative Curriculums. In addition to these wonderful Early Childhood curriculums, we include Spanish, computer and a character enhancement program that includes poise, etiquette, public speaking, drama and music. To expand their knowledge, our children attend inspiring field trips around the Chicago area. Our children ar typically academically advanced as they enter elementary school and are often placed in gifted schools, or schools of accelerated learning as well as given advanced placement in schools of traditional learning. We are housed in one of the many beautiful mansions in the historic Hyde Park area and offer a completely secured environment uniquely accessible through closed circuit TV cameras for the peace of mind of parents who wish to observe their child's activity without disturbing the classrooms.
We view Christian education as an essential component of every child's growth and development process. we believe it instills a sense of morals and values that build character and promote a sincere appreciation of life.

Marjorie Jones, administrator, Mike Gerring, director.

Hyde Park Development Center

Ahzea Makhubu

Hyde Park Development Center (preschool two to five years of age, after school 6-10 years). 773 324-0947. Hyde Park Development Center's home based pre-schools program, "Chicago's Health and Wellness Pre-school". Contact Ahzea at 773 324-0947. 7:30 am-6 pm.

Hyde Park Development Center offers a comprehensive pre-school program within a unique home-like, literacy rich environment. Teachers provide a nurturing atmosphere in which children learn and develop on a variety of levels, including socially, cognitively, linguistically, and physically. The families admitted to the program place a high-value on education and expect the best for their child. Hyde Park Development Center maintains exceptional parent-teacher communication through daily reports, photos e-mailed to parents, and family events designed to foster the school community. The center takes a holistic approach to children’s health and wellness through providing healthy vegetarian meals and daily time spent outdoors for fresh air, physical activity, and sunshine. The development center provides an exceptional level of quality programming through the gentle care provided to the students, professional communication with parents, and attractive classroom layouts.

K.A.M. Isaiah Israel Nursery School
5039 S. Greenwood Ave. 773 924-1234

Principal: Liat Shanan

Parent toddler class for children 18 mo. to 3 years. Nursery school classes 3-5 years old. 9 am-12 pm with optional lunch hour following. Enr. 100. Tuition $4,100 for 5-day classes, $2,900 for 3-day. No summer. Parent/toddler Tues and Thurs am.
Music, stories, art, games, cooking and outdoor and indoor large play space. Celebrates the Jewish holidays and Shabbat with the rabbi or cantor weekly. Private religious school from kindergarten though confirmation.

Through our child-centered program, KAM seeks to help children learn to love school and become a creative, independent person. We provide a wide variety of experiences for creative self-expression, development of both social and physical skills, and unstructured time. KAM encourages children to grow as individuals through creative individual and group experiences with other children their own age. KAM provides a safe environment away from home in which children may experiment with new materials and equipment, learn new ways of handling familiar tasks and with help and support, learn how to get along with others.
The nursery school follows a developmental approach to learning in which children's play activities are viewed as indispensable precursors to the academic and social activities of elementary school. Through play, children learn to be part of a group, to share, and to become friends. In play, children feel the freedom to try new ideas, practice skills and imitate adult roles. Teachers are trained to listen to the children, allowing tem to take the initiative, yet guide them in productive ways. The program provides opportunities to stimulate children's natural curiosity, inquiry, and invention. Concepts that are woven into our curriculum include mathematics, science, creative art, music, movement, drama and language development.
The mission of the Nursery School is to provide a program for young children that encourages the growth of the whole child and provides an emphasis on Jewish holidays, rituals and values.
We offer a family-oriented educational program designed to lay a foundation for future learning. Our teachers work in partnership with parents to meet the individual needs of each child. Our child-centered program allows children to choose freely from a wide range of play and learning experiences in a relaxed and unhurried environment which is conducive to their growth. [We] foster a strong sense of Jewish identity through the study of Torah, traditions, history of the Jewish people and acts of g'melut chasidim--acts of loving kindness.
Fran Gordon, Director

Little People Learning Center
5650 S. Woodlawn Ave. 773 955-9942

2-6 yrs. In First Unitarian Church. 7 am-6 pm or 9-noon. $575 per month for full-time.
Our warm, caring staff encourages each child to develop to his or her potential.
Rosa Thomas Director, Evon Warlick, Assistant Director
Parent Cooperative for Early Learning
5300 South Shore Drive. 773 684-6363
Ages 2-5. 7 am-6 pm. Enr. 56. Operated by the school's board. Field trips, professional dance instructor, swimming in the summer, on-site gym and playground. Air conditioned, open year round. Part-time or full time, 3 full or 5 half days. Summer camp for children 6-8 8:30-5:30 in late June-late August. The school prides itself on it multi-cultural ethic and parental involvement in the cooperative.
Monica Foster, Director. William Weaver board president
   

Top

Public School Boundaries in Hyde Park-Kenwood. Murray was excluded from the Herald map below--perhaps because it's magnet and draws from anywhere in Chicago. Kenwood's boundaries are 47th, Cottage, 6oth, Stony, 56th, and the Lake.

A service of Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference (email).
Help support our work: Join the Conference!

HPKCC HOME