Mckenzie Elementary School

During our time at the school, leadership changed frequently, including multiple principals, assistant principals, the Dean of Students, and many teachers. Students faced bullying that often went unaddressed, and as a parent, it seemed staff were discouraged from reporting problematic or concerning student behavior they observed in classrooms or on the playground.

Seven years ago we enrolled our daughter in first grade at a district 65 school. The experience we had there was a challenge for us. Our child received little to no instruction. She actually still states to us that she is behind because she didn't learn anything in first grade. When she asked for more things to do she was given worksheets and that was pretty much her educational experience that year.Naturally, we looked around to think about our options. We toured Baker Demonstration School and immediately felt right at home. That initial connection to Baker has grown over the last few years. Our child has been taught to learn about and embrace who she is so that she can build a foundation of healthy self-esteem and well-being. The hands on applied learning approach has been excellent for our daughter. She participates in many different programs and exercises that applies what she learns to real time situations. We have seen her come alive with excitement and enthusiasm while managing some of these projects dealing with marketing, business plans and sales. She is able to apply her english and math skills while participating in these educational activities. Baker Demonstration School has a strong emphasis to embrace diversity in all its forms and to celebrate each student and their unique characteristics and contributions. Our daughter is thriving there due to this unique hands-on and supportive environment.

A+. We transferred to St. A's from public school and it has been the best thing that's happened to our child's education in Evanston. Classes are challenging. Kids are held to deadlines each week. Disruptive behavior in classes is not an issue. Thoughtfulness is part of the learning. We are grateful and lucky that there was a spot open at the school, because we're now able to watch our child expand and reach upwards, rather than just attend school.

Saints JFX is a warm ,welcoming and vibrant school. We joined this community in 2019 and immediately felt at home. We have three children, two of whom are still attending the school and when asked what their favorite part of moving to Wilmette has been - all three credit their experience at this school. My eldest was extremely well prepared for High school and it felt like an easy transition. The teachers at this school are communicative and responsive. My children are appropriately challenged.I can consistently view grades online and I am always aware of what is happening in the classroom and at the school. Communication is transparent and regular. There is a huge focus on child safety and on catholic values and principles. There is a holistic education nurturing children academically, emotionally and physically. There are daily after school clubs and early morning care is available which is a huge support for working parents. A wide range of sports is on offer from basketball to golf to football and track to name a few. There are wonderful traditions for both parents and children such as Breakfast with Santa, Progressive Dinner, St Patrick’s day party, Daddy Daughter dance - all great ways to experience and volunteer in this vibrant school community. I highly recommend Saints JFX if you are looking for a catholic education with high academic standards in a nurturing environment where community spirit and parent involvement is valued and encouraged.