Ravenswood

"Budlong School has been a truly wonderful place for my child. As a parent of a child with disabilities, finding a supportive environment is incredibly important, and this school has exceeded my expectations. The nurses and staff are absolutelv amazing--kind patient, and always willing to help They treat my child with so much care and respect, and they communicate openly with me about everything. The atmosphere at Budlong is warm and welcoming, and I'm grateful every day that my child is surrounded by people who genuinely care."

chappell elementary is a wonderful neighborhood school that we feel incredibly lucky to have in ravenswood. as a world language magnet cluster school, every student studies spanish, which adds so much depth to their education. native speakers have a heritage language program to build on their existing skills, while non native speakers in grades six through eight complete the equivalent of a first year high school spanish course.the arts programming here is truly impressive. students have opportunities in music, visual arts, and even participate in musicals. they also get to explore multiple instruments, which is not something every school offers.what really sets chappell apart are the hands on environmental education programs. students learn through gardening and even beekeeping, which are supported by the amazing friends of chappell group. these experiences help students connect with nature in meaningful ways.not sure if most people know this but academically, the school ranks quite high and has particular strength in science. chappell was recognized with thrive awards in both 2021 and 2024 for its positive impact on student learning, which says a lot about the dedication of the teachers and staff.there is also a wide variety of extracurricular options like sports, chess, garden club, and computer club, all of which contribute to a well rounded experience for our daughter.for families who need it, the school offers very early before care and an after care program as well. this kind of support makes a big difference for working parents.if you are curious about getting involved, the friends of chappell is a very active and welcoming parent community that plays an important role in the school’s success.

I’m speaking for my sister and me. I am a regular student who had already graduated 2 years ago, this school is amazing. My teachers were great, really did try they’re best to give advanced education to us, they kept us on check, while also having some fun, yes of course some teachers were strict and not fun, but they really did prepare you. Likewise, My sister had some trouble with all the subjects and had to have individual classes to help her keep up. Which I found very great. She told me how the classes helped her, along with some books I gave her, that fit her interest, she grew well alongside supportive teachers. They gave her weakened work as well, and supported her all the way through. Great teachers, with great patience. The safety and diverse community is great, they have a lot of opportunities to be out and social, clubs and afterschool programs, a great park, and a great school ground with a safe community. Though, the counclers do need some work with keeping everything fair from a problem I had with another student. They do care about every student, adress problems the parents have, give meetings and try to keep the students comfortable. Other than that, the school is fine, and well. I’m saying this as a graduate from 24, and my sister just graduated. It was a good time in that school. I recommend putting your student in!!

Excellent! The learning experience of subjects from math to religion provided a firm enough background to enter Loyola Academy.

My son has completed two years of preschool at Queen of Angels grammar school. He is starting to read already and doing the curriculum of a 1st grader. The teachers are detailed orientated and truly teach the kid lessons early on that they will need to be successful as they progress through 8th grade and beyond. I would say that the teachers and school higher ups over communicate what is happening at the school and in the classroom. This is defiantly not the case when I talk to family friends that send their child to a public school in the area. The school has a buddy program where a preschooler is matched up with a 4th or 5th grader which creates cohesion and respect throughout the levels of the school. My experience is my child getting high fives and fist bumps leaving school rather than bullying. The community of the school is tight-nit with parents that are very welcoming of new families. Families are given many opportunities to give back through service and build new relationships through events. We are a very happy family with Queens and put our trust in the school with our son which is our #1 priority. Nathan Voegtle

Former student here, completed the French Bac program. Teaching-wise, I wholeheartedly believe that I could not have learned some of the amazing topics and work ethic at another school in Chicago. I think the LFC drives curiosity and some of the smartest and kindest students I have ever known have come from here. There are a mix of teachers --some encouraging, some extremely unmotivated. The rigor is no joke for either the Bac or IB. Students are used to writing long papers and developing their thoughts very well... an unparalleled quality I have noticed over the years. Your child will truly grow to be an open-minded and driven individual. Critical thinking is very much part of the takeaways. Some areas of focus though I do not think are well supported at all. The music and theatre departments are woefully unequipped. Try some outside orchestras, choirs, and clubs because there is NO AUDITORIUM. There are excellent theatre, jazz, and classical orchestras in every other school except this one. When I was attending the artsy students were outcast but that may have changed. Lastly, I know some students (and teachers!) that have felt very unwelcome or were bullied out of jealousy, lower economic status, or just for dressing and expressing themselves in a unique way. Some professors and deans were helpful in that regard, but they have left back to France. In all you might be surprised by the quality of the fabulous, fabulous teachers of the school and the program itself -- or underwhelmed in some other aspects, just like any other school.

The education and extra-curricular activities are top-notch, and the school is a real community. All of the staff cares so much for the students, and there is great camaraderie across the different grades and ages. My child gets to experience special events and activities that they wouldn’t have the same opportunities to at any other school in this area.