St. Francis Xavier

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.