Education in Beverly Hills/Morgan

Local public, private and parochial schools (see directory below) offer a variety of educational options for students from preschool through graduate school. 
 
Home of the first authorized cluster of International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program schools in the state of Illinois, the Chicago Public Schools in Beverly Hills/Morgan Park are often sought out to be demonstration sites for teacher training and collaborative learning initiatives. The community is committed to excellence in education, and home to several Golden Apple Award recipients, and many more nominees. 

Montessori programs are available from preschool through elementary grade levels. Private preschools, day care facilities, state pre-kindergarten and Head Start programs, as well as a birth to age three programs serve tots of all ability and needs levels.

Morgan Park High School offers students excellent academic, sports and enrichment opportunities including the Synergistic Lab, Multimedia Tech Center, International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, World Language and International Studies gifted program, national award-winning Debate Team, and National Engineers’ Week Future City Competition winners. MPHS athletes are State Champs in bowling and girls’ track, and City Champs in swimming, water polo, basketball and volleyball.

Morgan Park Academy is an exceptional private school serving students in preschool through high school. Nearby parochial high schools round out the array of educational options for students.

Day care facilities and preschools offer superior choices in early education. Libraries, parks and recreation centers, as well as the Beverly Arts Center and Ridge Historical Society add to the cultural and educational advantages of living in the Village in the City.

Located nearby is Saint Xavier University, Chicago’s oldest Catholic University at 3700 W. 103rd St. SXU has been an important partner to Beverly Hills/Morgan Park institutions, including hosting the Beverly Area Planning Association’s annual Snowflake Ball and providing unique educational expertise and teaching support to the Barbara Vick Early Childhood & Family Center. For the past several years, the university has been undergoing an impressive expansion, adding buildings and programs to accommodate a growing student population.

Chicago State University, which originally opened as a teacher training school in 1867, and is located at 9501 S. King Dr. CSU offers a full curriculum of undergraduate and graduate courses and degree programs. Beverly Hills/Morgan Park students can also attend Chicago City Colleges.

All Day Montessori

1819 W. 99^th St., 773-239-8248

Preschool: Ages 2 – 6, extended day, 5 days

Offering preschool through kindergarten for families with both parents working or single parent families, this Montessori program serves the physical, intellectual and emotional needs of children in developmentally appropriate ways. Year round. Private.

Barbara Vick Early Childhood & Family Center

2554 W. 113^th St., 773-535-2671

Preschool: Birth –5, half day, morning/afternoon, 4 days

This school stresses family involvement and education as integral parts of programs. Five classrooms provide educational services in an inclusive setting for at-risk and special needs children, and two classrooms provide self-contained services for children with a variety of special needs. All classes are team-taught and most therapies are integrated into the classroom setting. Classroom instruction is developmentally appropriate, child-centered and play-based. Children are screened to determine eligibility. Public.

Barnard School

10354 S. Charles St., 773-535-2869

Preschool: Ages 3 –4, half day, morning/afternoon

Pre-kindergarten – 8^th

Barnard School has been educating students from Beverly Hills/Morgan Park for 125 years. The school’s mission is to educate students to become literate, responsible and compassionate citizens, capable of making informed decisions. Barnard’s outstanding Early Childhood Program includes a state pre-kindergarten and a full day kindergarten. The language-based preschool program stresses hands-on readiness activities, children experience reading, writing, science, math, health and safety education through play.  Strong parent-teacher relationships are fostered. Children are screened to determine eligibility. Summer program available.

In the elementary school, Barnard offers an outstanding general instructional program and the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. French is taught at each grade level, as are computer literacy and application skills. The school houses a computer lab with 35 networked, Internet-connected stations that feature instructional software in reading and mathematics. The Library-Media Center includes a variety of print and audio-visual material with eight networked and Internet-connected computer stations.

Accelerated reading software tracks the progress of students’ independent reading. Students in upper grades are enrolled in laboratory science classes and exposed to algebra. Students participate in field trips that utilize community resources. Outreach and university programs enhance the curriculum. Participation in regional and citywide academic contests keep students motivated. Public.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Chorus, Student Council, basketball, cheerleading, track, tennis and volleyball.

Beacon Therapeutic School

10650 S. Longwood Dr., 773-881-1005

Age 3 through 21

Beacon Therapeutic School offers an extensive elementary and high school curriculum to students ages 3 to 21 with moderate to severe psychiatric problems. Clinical therapists and teachers collaborate to provide a unique balance of therapeutic and educational experiences designed to meet the need of each individual. The goal of the program is to, where appropriate, return children to mainstream education.

The Day School offers a variety of activities designed to assist students in developing appropriate social skills functioning. Students participate in annual events such as the Multi-Cultural Fair, Chess/Checker Tournament, Art Fair, Christmas Concert, Olympiad, Valentine Pancake Breakfast and St. Patrick’s Day Dance. The school also provides a variety of transition planning services for students, helping them to become productive citizens. Private.

Beverly Castle Academy for Early Education

10244 S. Longwood Dr., 773-239-2299

Preschool: Ages 3 – 6, half day, morning/afternoon

The role of this school is to support, guide and enhance the child’s view of self as learner by providing a high quality, developmentally appropriate program that links the goals of home, school and community. Private.

Beverly Montessori School

9916 S. Walden Pkwy., 773-239-7635

Preschool: Ages 3 – 6, half day, morning/afternoon

Beverly Montessori offers a dynamic yet structured environment geared to the young child. Following the Montessori philosophy, the school assists children in their development through “prepared environments” that invite them to move and investigate. Private.

Christ the King School

9240 S, Hoyne Ave., 773-779-3329

Preschool: Ages 3 – 4, Half day, morning, 2 or 3 days

Preschool – 8^th

Christ the King School has served children for over 65 years. Emphasis is on moral and religious formation as well as academic excellence. The faculty fosters respect for all individuals, and critical thinking skills are priority in all subjects.

In a hands-on preschool program that offers small class sizes, children have an individualized learning experience in a nurturing, fun-filled environment where strong parent involvement and Christian family values are encouraged. Curriculum includes reading readiness, math, language arts and computers, offered along with free play, socialization, music and movement and Spanish and math readiness. Activities include outdoor play in the enclosed playground, prayer and bible stories. 

Christ the King Elementary School provides fine arts, computer education, and full day kindergarten. Strong parental involvement is encouraged through Family-School Association and School Advisory Board. Student/teacher ratio is 18 to 1. Catholic.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Band, Student Council, drama, football, soccer, basketball and volleyball. After school care is available.

Parish boundaries: 87^th to 97^th Streets, Vanderpoel to Western Avenues.

Clissold School

2350 W. 110^th Pl., 773-535-2560

Kindergarten – 8^th

Clissold School offers an outstanding program of instruction in traditional classrooms as well as the Montessori program that encourages children in kindergarten through 5^th grade to become independent learners.

Clissold students in 6^th, 7^th and 8^th grades form the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme World School, providing a framework for academic challenge that extends traditional subjects. The program offers an opportunity to develop discipline, skills and challenging standards with creativity and flexibility. With an emphasis on intercultural understanding, students develop personal value systems to guide them as thoughtful members of local communities and the world.

Clissold makes every attempt to educate the whole child, offering additional programs and activities. An active PTA provides a strong cultural arts program and a broad range of support for the school.  Public.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Recycling Club, Journalism Club, basketball, volleyball, chorus, Great Books, Merit Music Program and Student Council.

Council Oak Montessori School

11030 S. Longwood Dr., 773-779-7606

Preschool: Ages 3 to 6, all day

Preschool – 8^th

Council Oak Montessori School, founded in 1990, offers a classic Montessori education through its affiliation with the American Montessori Society and the Association of Illinois Montessori Schools.

The Children’s House preschool offers an array of hands-on materials and activities designed to allow children to work at their own place in a developmentally appropriate environment. The Montessori approach is incorporated into all activities, and Montessori-trained teachers guide children in mastering reading, writing, sensory-motor, order and sequence, personal care and social skills. The program includes the classic 3-hour Montessori work period for all students, plus extended afternoon work for 5 and 6 year olds. Outdoor and indoor play are offered daily.

The unique Montessori Fusion Curriculum in the elementary school covers all traditional subjects as well as conflict resolution, grace and courtesy, community service projects, business development, drama, physical education, computer work and foreign language. The curriculum is designed to stimulate excitement and interest in learning as well as self-confidence and independence, developing self-directed, highly motivated learners. Multi-age classrooms contain hands-on materials organized by subject matter, and children choose individualized work. In-classroom work is followed up by field trips that demonstrate real-life applications of knowledge.

A maximum 15 to 1 student/teacher ratio enables Montessori-trained teachers to give individual attention to each child. Private.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Outdoor education including camping, intramural sports, Kids’ Club and after school care.

Esmond School

1865 W. Montvale Ave., 773-535-2650

Pre-kindergarten – 8^th

The central portion of Esmond School was built in 1891, making it the oldest public school in Beverly Hills/Morgan Park. Esmond’s Standard Education Program is based on the continuous progress of individual students, grouped according to age and reading level. Esmond is an authorized International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme World School.

For junior high students, a full-time science lab is provided. Field trips underscore classroom studies. Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled early each year, and additional meetings are arranged by parent or teacher request. Esmond School offers three all-day kindergartens, two state pre-kindergarten classes, and two federal Headstart programs. Public.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Great Books, Student Council, Book Fair, Fine Arts Fair, Science Fair, Math Down, Spell Down, basketball and volleyball.

Kellogg Electronic Research Academy

9241 S. Leavitt, 773-535-2590

Kindergarten – 8^th

Kellogg School offers an excellent elementary curriculum to all students. The school has a computer lab for all grade levels, and a wireless network throughout the building.

Kellogg School is an authorized International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme that emphasizes global education, communication and cultural awareness. All students in grades 6 through 8 are included in this exciting program. Kellogg offers an in-depth independent program in library and communication skills for eligible 4^th and 5^th graders. Kellogg School students also participate in advanced math, science and technology application activities in the Synergistic Lab. Module topics include: engineering towers, robotics, broadcasting and biotechnology. Foreign language instruction is part of the curriculum at all grade levels. A strong fine arts program enhances the curriculum and provides all students a unique educational opportunity. Public.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Student Council, Great Books, Rainbows, band, chorus, violin, volleyball and basketball. 

Little Hands Learning Center

2324 W. 111^th St., 773-445-9000

Preschool: Ages 2 – 6, extended day, 5 days

This program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills and social development through structured activities and a hands-on curriculum that includes math, science, reading readiness, computers, foreign language, art, music, fitness, dance and yoga. Year round. Private.

Little Lamb Scholastic Academy

10126 S. Western Ave., 773-238-2500

Preschool/Kindergarten: Ages 6 weeks – kindergarten, extended day, 5 days

This educational environment promotes self-esteem and intellectual development through nurturing and positive reinforcement. The curriculum includes reading, math, science, social studies, geography, music appreciation, piano lessons, Spanish and French. Year round. Private.

Morgan Park Academy

2153 W. 111^th St., 773-881-6700

Preschool: Ages 3 – 5, half day & full day

Preschool – 12^th

Morgan Park Academy is an independent, co-ed, college prep day school offering a challenging liberal arts program designed for average to superior students. Academic instruction begins in the preschool, providing the foundation for reading, writing and math. As early as kindergarten, instruction includes reading, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, foreign language, computer and physical education. The goal of the child-centered preschool program is to create a love of learning and help children become lifelong learners with a positive attitude about themselves and the school environment. With specific goals and objectives for each subject area, the program couples structured activities with exploration. Program 12:2 student-teacher ratio, foreign language, art, music, gym and computers.

The philosophy of the MPA elementary and high school curriculums is to engage students in a hands-on approach to learning with an emphasis on the individual. A highly motivated faculty is constantly stimulating and encouraging students to develop their particular talents. With an overall teacher/student ratio of 1 to 10, each child is assured caring, personalized attention.

Founded in 1873, the Academy is situated on a beautifully landscaped 20-acre college-like campus that includes two major classroom buildings that also house a brand new Tech Center and multimedia foreign language lab; a physical education building, outdoor playing fields and a tennis court; art center with an auditorium and fine arts classrooms; dining hall; and library/computer center. Private.

Morgan Park Children’s Center Headstart

11024 S. Bell Ave., 773-779-8186

Preschool: Ages 3 – 5, extended day, 5 days

This Headstart program offers support and care in a safe, attractive environment that promotes social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. Services include educational programs based on intellectual needs, math and science lab, and activities such as music, storytelling, art, field trips, gymnastics and outdoor recreation. Year round. Private.

Morgan Park High School

1744 W. Pryor Ave., 773-535-2550

7^th – 12^th

Morgan Park High School has served the community since 1916. MPHS is known for high academic standards and innovative courses. The College Preparatory and Honors Program features a challenging curriculum designed to equip students for public and private university entrance requirements. MPHS offers 16 advance placement classes. Education-to-Careers is a four-year program that focuses on vocational education and college preparation. Students are given hands-on practical skills in one of eight career pathways. Students who attend feeder schools in the Beverly Hills/Morgan Park Cluster may continue the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme for grades 6 through 10. IBMYP provides an accelerated curriculum intended to promote international understanding, responsible citizenship, and the importance of learning how to learn through student-centered inquiry and communication. Students who complete the program receive the internationally recognized IBMYP Certificate of Portfolio of Achievement.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a rigorous program that emphasizes mathematics, science, philosophy and foreign languages, and program graduates receive internationally recognized diplomas. The World Languages and International Studies Program is a gifted program that prepares students to succeed in the global society of the 21^st century. Students study French, Italian or Spanish as they develop the cultural understanding and skills needed to pursue careers in the international arena. The 7^th –12^th Grade Academic Center is an accelerated program for gifted and highly motivated students. A wide range of academic classes is offered, and qualified students are given the opportunity to complete high school at accelerated levels. Public.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Aspira Club, Club AFRICAA, debate, drama, Academic Decathlon, chess, student newspaper, band, chorus, cheerleading, majorettes, pom pon, bowling, baseball, softball, soccer, swimming, water polo, golf, basketball, tennis, wrestling, football, track & field, cross country track, volleyball, and much more.

Nico’s Playhouse

1855 W. 95^th St., 773-238-0117

Preschool: Ages 2 – 6, extended day, 5 days

Enriching opportunities for the intellectual, emotional, social and physical development are offered through activities that include phonics, writing and math to dance instruction and a comprehensive Spanish program. Monthly field trips enhance children’s learning. Year round. Private.

PLAID Academy

11156 S. Hoyne Ave., 773-238-2603

Kindergarten – 8^th

PLAID Academy (Positive Learning in an Atmosphere of Individual Development) opened in 1994. A state recognized private school, the learning experience places equal emphasis on knowledge, comprehension, application and creativity. Through a traditional yet innovative curriculum, PLAID students continually assess skills, set goals and evaluate progress. Multi-sensory teaching techniques and an integrated curriculum encourage synergy for the learner between classroom experiences and real world expectations. Frequent field trips enrich the curriculum. Small class size allows for individual attention and interaction between students. Enhanced curriculum includes French, sign language, yoga, swim and President’s Physical Fitness Program.

PLAID offers Essential Learning System, an individualized program that addresses learning differences and accelerates student progression. Multi-sensory exercises enhance linguistic acquisition, coding, transfer of learning. Sensory Integration Training develops reflexive learning and links visual, auditory and motor development. Private.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Intramural activities, extended day program.

Ridge Academy

2501 W. 103^rd St., 773-233-0033

1^st –8^th Grade

Established by parents and designed by educators with a commitment to achievement, Ridge Academy is an innovative, private elementary academy. Teaching practices and the entire administrative and educational systems are organized around the natural learning process of children. Based on current research in education and neuroscience, the curriculum and learning environments encourage initiative, deep understanding, critical thinking and creative approaches to problem solving. Small student/teacher ratio and multi-age classes create a community of learning designed to develop independent learners. The curriculum is intellectually stimulating and developmentally appropriate, aligned with State guidelines and designed for individualized learning to help students reach their highest levels of achievement. Private.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Clubs and intramural sports.

St. Barnabas School

10121 S. Longwood Dr., 773-445-7711

Preschool: Ages 3 – 4, Half day, morning/afternoon, 2 or 3 days

Preschool – 8^th

St. Barnabas School respects individuality and provides a curriculum that meets each child’s needs. Students are encouraged to develop spiritually, intellectually, physically and socially. They are called to high personal achievement, to a deep appreciation of themselves, others, and their environment, and to sharing their time and talents for the good of all.

In the preschool, children are encouraged to have fun, learn new things and grow as people through group and individual play, planned and spontaneous projects, quiet and active times. The curriculum addresses the social, academic, physical and spiritual needs of the young child.

The elementary school offers a comprehensive curriculum enhanced by prayer and worship, library, music, physical education and Spanish. A state-of-the-art computer program, headed by a full time technology director, provides students with the opportunity to use the computer as an educational tool. The school is networked and all classrooms have Internet access. Two resource teachers assist students with special needs. Catholic.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: After school enrichment classes, strings, band, athletic program for boys and girls, school play, newspaper, Great Books, Chess Club and after school care.

Parish boundaries: 97^th to 105^th Streets, Western Avenue to Charles Street/Western Avenue to Vincennes.

St. Cajetan School

2447 W. 112^th St., 773-233-8844

Preschool: Ages 3 – 4, half day, morning, 2 or 3 days

Preschool – 8^th

St. Cajetan School offers an academically challenging curriculum centered on the values and teaching of the Catholic Church.

For more than 20 years the preschool program has been providing a secure, cheerful, stimulating, Christian environment in which children socialize, explore and create in a variety of experiences. Early childhood teacher and teacher assistant guide students as they develop fine motor skills, gross motor development, communication skills, safe and healthy habits.

In the elementary school the state-of-the-art computer lab has 32 CD-ROM and Internet access computers that students utilize for instructional time with a certified computer teacher. Adding to these opportunities, each classroom has two networked computers for use in class projects or for Internet research. A fully equipped science lab complements junior high science classes. Accelerated math and reading programs help students strengthen skills. Additional faculty provide art, band, library, music and physical education. A full time resource teacher assists students with special needs and the school counselor works with students individually and in groups, and is also available to assist parents. Essential Learning Systems is a computerized, corrective therapy program available to interested students to help them become independent learners.

The kindergarten is a full day program, including computer instruction, music, physical education, and extended language arts and math activities. Catholic.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: After-school tutoring, after school care, band, Computer Club, Drama Club, newspaper, Rainbows, Scrapbook Club, Student Ambassadors, Student Council and yearbook.

Parish boundaries: 107^th to 115^th Streets, California to Vincennes Avenues

St. John Fisher School

10200 S. Washtenaw Ave., 773-445-4737

Preschool: Ages 3 – 4, half day, morning/afternoon, 2 or 3 days

Preschool – 8^th

St. John Fisher School is a Catholic educational community that is open to children of all faiths and provides high quality academic programs and instruction. The faculty work collaboratively to ensure the curriculum meets current best practice standards by using a variety of instructional techniques and cross-cultural activities.

The preschool is a happy place to learn and grow and the program promotes an atmosphere of trust between home and school. Children interact with peers while developing Catholic values and exploring activities that encourage independent thinking and problem solving. Summer program available.

State-of-the-art technology and excellent fine arts and physical education programs complement the elementary school curriculum and support a well-rounded education. Students in grades 4 through 8 have Spanish class to prepare them for high school study and for cultural enrichment. The religious education is the vital foundation of the entire school program and assists in the formation of responsible, compassionate and caring individuals.

St. John Fisher School includes a Middle School for grades 6 through 8 that addresses the unique needs of pre-adolescent and adolescent students and prepares them for high school. A full-time resource teacher works with students diagnosed with special needs. The school board, Family School Association and the Athletic Association support the school and are positive influences in its success. Catholic.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Student Council, athletics program, Liturgy Team, yearbook, Technology Club, band, String Ensemble, choir, after-school Enrichment and Tutorial Center.

Parish boundaries: 99^th to 107^th Streets, Western to Kedzie Avenues.

St. Walter School

11741 S. Western Ave., 773-445-8850

Preschool: Ages 4 – 5, half day, 3 or 5 days

Pre-kindergarten – 8^th

St. Walter School is noted for its family atmosphere, small size and personal attention to the needs of individual students.

The preschool offers a kindergarten-readiness program that prepares children for the school’s full-day kindergarten through a curriculum focused on developmental, social and academic goals as it aims to meet the needs of the whole child.

In addition to the traditional academic curriculum, St. Walter elementary school provides music, physical education, library, art and computer instruction. The program includes departmental study in 6^th through 8^th grades. A local area network connects all the classrooms and the computer lab, and provides Internet access to all rooms. Guest speakers and field trips enrich the curriculum. After-school clubs provide students with opportunities to pursue special interests.

St. Walter School strives to instill good study habits and positive attitudes, and to provide knowledge that will serve the students in their educational endeavors. Student/teacher ratio is 22 to 1. Catholic.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: Student Council, band, choir, clubs, soccer, volleyball and basketball. Extended Day services are available before and after school.

Parish boundaries: 115^th to 123^rd Streets, Vincennes/Hale to Maplewood Avenues.

Small Stride Academy

10317 S. Western Ave., 773-239-0040

Extended day, 5 days

Ages 2 – 6

For over 17 years this school’s educational curriculum has been designed to prepare children for successive levels of learning. The primary focus is bringing out the best in children academically through loving care, safety and concern, and educational programs. Year round. Private.

Sutherland School

10015 S. Leavitt, 773-535-2580

Kindergarten – 8^th

Sutherland School’s mission is to educate all its students to high levels of academic performance, while fostering positive growth in social and emotional behaviors and attitudes. Academics, fine arts and extracurricular programs prepare students to live a cultured, ethical life in a technological society. Sutherland also encourages appreciation of cultural diversity.

Sutherland students in grades 6 through 8 participate in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, a rigorous academic program modeled to international standards. Foreign language instruction in French begins in 3^rd grade. The school is equipped with two science labs and a 32-station Power Mac lab. The Junior Great Books discussion program and Power Writing are offered throughout the curriculum. Band, orchestra and chorus are offered during the school day.

Sutherland is proud of its academic teams and its Math Counts Team, which has qualified for the State Math Counts finals several times. Sutherland regularly competes in Young Authors, writing, Science Fair, speech and spelling competitions. Public.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: After school social center, volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, running, bowling, Student Council, National Beta Club, Math Counts, science club, yearbook, band and homework room.

Vanderpoel Magnet School for the Humanities

9510 S. Prospect Ave., 773-535-2690

Kindergarten – 8^th

Vanderpoel Magnet School is known for its humanities program, which includes courses in art, music, literature and history. The curriculum combines academic study with creative experience to reinforce the school motto: Where Excellence is Tradition.

The Vanderpoel learning experience is enhanced by regular field trips promoting the humanities. The school emphasizes parent involvement and individualizes instruction. Critical thinking skills and a strong foundation in social amenities are priorities. Vanderpoel is a closed campus, and a national humanities faculty award school, for which teachers are specially trained and selected. Public.

Extracurricular activities and athletics: After school counts, basketball, cheerleading, Beta Club, choir.

Inclusion in this site is not an endorsement by the Beverly Area Planning Association. When choosing a school, we suggest that you visit facilities to learn more about the curriculum and site, and ask for current references.