Oakton Elementary School

My daughter had an excellent experience in kindergarten and now in first grade. My husband and I both attended neighborhood public schools and went to public universities for undergrad and grad school. We're strong supporters of neighborhood CPS schools. Through Gale, my daughter now has friends and classmates who are black, Latina/o, and white, as well as who are recent refugees from Kurdistan, Myanmar, and the Congo, to mention just a few countries of origin. The principal and teaching staff are using data-driven strategies to improve student learning, and I see a real desire to support the holistic needs of students. Gale is one of just a few CPS schools that has a greenhouse on site as well as a community-school garden that has been a focal point for partnerships with community organizations. There is a lot of negative press out there on neighborhood schools including Gale, which don't give the full picture. Please come and check it out for yourself! Thanks for reading this. :)

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.

My family has been a part of Pope John XXIII School for roughly 10 years, and we've really been impressed with the close-knit community of the school. The small class sizes, individualized attention to student needs and caring teachers and staff have made it a great place for our kids to get an education. My oldest recently graduated from Pope John, and the education he received there has positioned him well for success in high school.