Rogers Park Montessori School

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.

Goudy is one of those amazing neighborhood schools where the teachers, staff, and leadership truly care. You feel it at every school event and from the kids who are genuinely excited to go to school there every day. It's one of the most culturally and racially diverse schools in the entire CPS system, and they prioritize the needs of the community (i.e., they actually welcome newcomers and immigrants, unlike other area schools that have turned them away and placed an over emphasis on teaching kids to test well rather than creating engaging and healthy learning environments that help all community members). The school was also just awarded a "Top Magnet School of Excellence" status by Magnet Schools of America, and was just one of three schools in the entire state to achieve this recognition—proof that academics, alongside of healthy learning environments, are equally prioritized here. As others have said, the school also has many amenities and programs that other schools of its size do not (tech lab, 3D printers, two full size gyms, rock band / battle of the bands, music class, drama class, a full size library, etc.). Overall, we have been extremely happy with our choice to send our kids to Goudy, and highly recommend other parents in the area look into this under-the-radar gem as well.

I am a student a McPherson so I will be writing from a student standpoint. In my year of going to McPherson I have went through countless teacher some but not most of them Made excited to learn. But I will say the family engagement is amazing the family are very involved and participants in many fundraisers. Special education at McPherson I can not talk about really because I am not in special education classes but from my point of view the treatment of the students in special education is decent as I said before I can not really can not talk about.

Both our children attend Peirce and we've had a positive experience here so far over the years. The IB curriculum and school community as a whole is organized and intentional. I feel that my students are receiving a good education from knowledgeable and thoughtful educators. Peirce offers resources and opportunities for students to be creative and grow as individuals as well. My hope is that my students continue to feel included and valued here, and that communication in the school community continues. They have just hired a new Principal, after the previous one retired, and I have found the administration and faculty to be professional and supportive. The parent community is also incredibly active, and that makes being a part of Peirce fun for all.

St. Philip Lutheran School did not meet our expectations. The overstatements on the website are misleading. Some of the teachers are unlicensed, the curriculum isn't academically rigorous and there are very limited enrichment opportunities. Not all of the teachers treat the students with kindness and respect. Mandatory fundraising fees and additional school fees are added to the tuition cost. Overall, the school does not provide good value for the cost. There are many private schools that offer qualified teachers, rigorous academics, and a truly supportive learning. environment.

This is a wonderful school! The staff and teachers are kind and work so hard to make sure that every student has the best experience.