Talcott Elementary School

A small school, with soooo many resources! This school has everything you can think of to enhance the learning (iPads, Mac Computer labs, STEM lab, broadcast studio, etc.). My kids are always doing something there and they do their best to keep parents involved. So far we like it here!

Pros: -There is only one class per grade. The class sizes are bigger since many migrants got here but the kids still thrive academically, in my opinion.-Most of the kids seem to get along really well and within the last 3 years that my child has been here, I haven’t heard of a single fight. -Biggest pro is the kindergarten teacher; she’s the best. I was worried that my child may be a bit behind when she started school because she didn’t attend preschool. My daughter went from uninterested in learning at home, to reading on a second grade level, within months! I promise the teacher is AMAZING! CONS:-The administration is absolutely HORRIBLE! From the LAZY front desk clerk, counselor, to the principal. I’ve never actually had any issues with the principal, beside from her ignoring the two emails I sent her, but many other parents and even staff say that she’s not the best to deal with. -My daughter needed speech pathology and from what an outside pathologist told me, CPS has 60 days to offer this service to her. It’s been three years and it still hasn’t been addressed, despite me reaching out to them several times. We had to seek outside counseling. -It’s the only Ukrainian speaking school in Chicago and they have no problem showing favoritism to those students. -Some of the Russian/ukrainian parents are extremely rude and for some reason act as though they’re entitled.-Incidents are never reported to parents. CPS requires schools to fill out an incident report if your child is injured at school. My child has come home telling me that she was involved in incidents that were never reported to me. Thankfully, the Kindergarten and 1st grade teachers were pretty good with informing me of incidents, but if something happens at lunch, recess or afterschool, you may never hear about it from the staff! -There is only one class per grade. I listed this as a pro but it can also be a con…same kids every year…not always good for the child, especially if there are issues. -White privileged ppl in the neighborhood allow their dogs to poop on the playground (in the fake grass-like flooring)…disgusting! Sometimes it’s still there when the kids arrive. IMO, they need a gate to keep them out or cameras. -Not enough diversity for black students when it comes to culture. -No languages taught besides English (ESL).-Not enough extra curricular programs. -The school is last min with everything. They inform you of events days before & it’s annoying.-Uniforms…ugh!

Pros: friendly and small school community, nice family events throughout the year, committed teachers, great parent community Cons: declining quality in past 5-10 years, admin (one) generally resistant to parent feedbackThere's a very inconsistent student experience from teacher to teacher. My kids experienced multiple teachers at the school. No longer a strong vision for taking the school to the next level. Unfortunately not all admins treat parents with respect or as partners in education. There are also some fairly inequitable fundraising practices. Kind people at the school, but learning quality has declined in recent years. Parents don't receive much support when approaching admin with problems (at least one admin is fairly arrogant). At one time, the school ensured solid teaching for all learners. No longer the case.

We love it at Suder. There is always room for improvement and no school is perfect but this school has been great for us. The administration is responsive and works a great deal to create an inclusive and engaging community for families and kids. The Montessori education is unique in that kids have uninterrupted work blocks where they are not receiving specific instruction and get to choose what they work on and learn. We love it at Suder and will be here with all 3 of our children!

We’re so happy to have our two kids at LaSalle II. The school is incredibly well organized, and the community is wonderful. It’s a challenging environment, but the teachers and staff have supported our children every step of the way, helping them rise to meet high standards. On top of that, they’re learning a second language! This is what all CPS schools should aspire to be. If you’re lucky enough to get a spot, don’t hesitate to send your kids to LaSalle II.

Our son is attending kindergarten at St. Helen, and we have been extremely pleased with his experience. He is making strong progress in reading and math while still having ample time for play (he loves the Hot Wheels!), creativity, and hands-on projects. We appreciate the small class sizes and the wealth of experience of his teacher and co-teacher.The specials program is excellent, with PE, music, and art offered twice weekly, along with Spanish and technology. We value the balanced approach to technology—he is learning computer skills without excessive screen time. My son also benefits from a daily quiet rest/nap time. Although he does not yet participate in after-school clubs, we are impressed by the variety of affordable offerings. Overall, St. Helen has provided a well-rounded, supportive kindergarten experience, and we are glad we chose it for the personalized attention it offers.