Pathways Academy for Special Education

For starters, the leadership at the school is beyond terrible. They do not take bullying seriously. My student was physically assaulted multiple times and accused of serious threats all which were lies and considered unsubstantiated after their “investigation.” Those student(s) did not get suspensions. The restorative practice does not work and is not being done properly. There are neighboring schools that they can take notes from. My student was failing and did not feel safe attending school. Now that my child is attending another neighboring school, my child is thriving and getting good grades and has many friends. Why? Because the leadership at the new school involves parents together when there is an issue and sees to it that it stops immediately.

We have had an amazing experience at Rogers so far. My son is excited to go to school every day. It's a hidden gem within Chicago Public Schools-- strong academics, impressive arts opportunities, and a nurturing environment, and wonderfully diverse-- all set in a lush park-like setting. I would recommend it to any families in West Rogers Park or Rogers Park looking for a well-rounded, excellent school where you and your kids can grow deep roots.

Iam writing to express my deep frustration and disappointment with the way my daughter's transfer from West Ridge Elementary to Mosaic School of Fine Arts was handled by your office staff.At the end of last school year, I informed the West Ridge office that I wanted to transfer my daughter to Mosaic School. I was told by the office staff that the transfer had been completed and recorded in the system. I trusted this information and assumed everything was finished.However, on the day students were supposed to meet their new teachers and receive their school supplies at Mosaic, the Mosaic office informed me that no transfer had been completed and there was no record of it in their system. As a result, my child and I — along with all of her school supplies — were left stranded and confused, and I was forced to go back to the West Ridge office in person to resolve the issue.When I arrived, the West Ridge office finally gave me the transfer paperwork, but the date on the form was not even today — it was backdated to August 17, two days before today. At no point during this entire period did anyone from the West Ridge office contact me by phone or email to let me know the transfer had not actually been completed.I am very disappointed with the lack of professionalism, communication, and responsibility shown by the office staff. The core responsibility of a school office is to manage student enrollment and transfers accurately and on time. If a student is not properly registered and placed in their school, what is the purpose of the school and its office?I expect better accountability from West Ridge Elementary School, and I hope no other family has to go through this confusing and stressful experience.Parent of a former West Ridge student

My daughter is in 2nd grade at Bethesda and has attended since she was three. My daughter has thrived at Bethesda and loves her school. Our family appreciates the small, family-like environment of the school. Every teacher and student knows each other no matter the age/grade. Since the classes are so small, teachers have been able to really individualize their instruction and care to best meet my daughter’s needs, abilities, and talents. All of her teachers have shown her so much love and have been very supportive of our family. The school's student population is also very diverse and my daughter has made meaningful connections with her peers and teachers.