St Stanislaus Kostka Grade School

St. Stan’s is an exception to the school landscape in Chicago. This school truly provides a warm and welcoming experience for all students, with an emphasis on leadership and self-​control. The school is fueled by «The Leader in Me», which uses the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. A teacher myself, there are so many things I’ve seen schools claim to do — and not ACTUALLY do, but at St. Stan’s, this model is truly the core of the school rather than something that’s done on occasion.
Attracted by the school’s diversity and leadership program, my daughter transferred to St. Stan’s as a second grader, and immediately felt like she belonged. There were a number of opportunities for her to get involved in leadership roles even as a second grader. As a third grader, she mentored two pre-​schoolers as a big «faith buddy», and she was able to become part of the school’s Lighthouse team. As a parent, I always look forward to school activities. The parents are just as caring, understanding, and accepting as the rest of the school. Academically, the school uses the University of Chicago’s Everyday Math program and Columbia University’s workshop model for reading and writing. Their academic programming is comparable to some of the best public and private schools in the city, and in my opinion is implemented well. I would, however, like to see more structured supports for teachers in working with students who exceed grade-​level expectations.

This is our 3^rd year here at St. Stans and we are so happy to call SSKS our children’s home away from home. This prek-​8^th grade school is conveniently located off the ⁹⁰⁄₉₄ Division street exit. Our children enjoy every day at school utilizing the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Kids. With before care and after care right on the school premises and a multitude of after school programs to enjoy including edible art, piano lessons, karate, robot making class, and guitar there is always an opportunity for children to grow. With some of the best test scores in the city how can you not send your children here? A best kept secret that needs to be told.