Dirksen Elementary School

Good school with great teachers, superintendent is just ok

As our son finishes 4th grade and gets ready to move on to middle school, I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.These past years have meant so much to our family. The school has such a warm, family-like atmosphere, and it made a huge difference for us.He started school with a speech delay and received both speech therapy and occupational therapy. A few weeks ago, the school specialists told us he no longer needs these services… and it was such an emotional moment for us. The progress he has made is incredible.We know this didn’t happen by chance — it’s because of the patience, kindness, and dedication of the amazing teachers and specialists at this school.The principal, teachers, and staff are just as wonderful — modern, caring, and truly professional.You didn’t just help him learn — you helped him grow, gain confidence, and believe in himself.We will always be grateful for this chapter in his life.Thank you for everything you do every single day.

Pennoyer has amazing new facilities, esp for the special needs groups in the school. So many classrooms & support systems in place to make learning possible for all levels & disabilities. The newer art & music wing bring innovation & create spaces for creativity to blossom. The staff is very attentive, personable with all students and also attend all of the social events to get to know parents and families. Would recommend this school to anyone in the area !

When I attended this school, there was a very clear social hierarchy. Students constantly bullied me, and teachers and staff did nothing to stop it. Many parents even encouraged the behavior. If you weren’t considered “popular,” you were treated as worthless, and that mindset affected a lot of people.There were students who struggled so severely that it led to suicide connected to the environment here. Kindness was almost nonexistent. I saw things get worse over time: kids pushing, harassing, and openly telling classmates they didn’t belong, that they were weird, annoying, or not worth being there.This wasn’t just normal school drama, it was a culture of cruelty, and it left lasting harm.

I cannot believe this this school this is sooo bad

Oriole park is a Great school with dedicated teachers!! P

I always knew I wanted an accredited Montessori school for my children, ideally one that goes through 8th grade. I expected a warm community, teachers who demonstrate kindness, respect, and high expectations. I feel so lucky to have found this at Brickton Montessori when I moved to Chicago's Northwest side. I love the joy on my kindergartener's face when he comes home with stories to tell about the day or a new, hand-drawn book or world map to show me. I feel like we found a school that will foster his curiosity, creativity, and encourage a love of learning.I suggest to anyone that you visit the school, sit in an elementary classroom, and observe what makes this school so unique!