We are the premier independent Catholic school (3 year old preschool through 8th grade) on Chicago’s North Shore. We are uniquely governed by an independent Board of Directors that brings together critical expertise and agility in decision-making. Following are a few of the things that make the Academy a distinctive and enriching experience for our students and their families:
- At the heart of The Academy at St. Joan of Arc is the understanding of the importance of a curriculum that emphasizes both faith and reason. We embrace a Christ-centered curriculum in a values-based environment structured on Catholic teachings.
- We offer a well-rounded STREAM-focused curriculum (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) that emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and self-expression.
- Our leading partnerships with Illinois Math & Science Academy, Loyola Academy and Defined Stem help us deliver on our commitment to innovative teaching and cutting-edge curriculum.
- Outstanding teaching in small classes that allow for a high level of differentiated instruction. Instruction is student-centered and allows for teachers to meet students’ individual needs in a variety of ways.
- Students are engaged and inspired by our project-based learning methodology which allows students to work in teams on hands-on projects that stretch the mind and encourage creative problem solving and applied learning.
- Consistent with our core values, service to others is integral to who we are as a school and a community. From preparing soup kitchen meals to Kindness Days, our students are consistently presented with opportunities to grow through service to others.
- Extracurricular activities provide essential opportunities to develop interests, abilities and skills. Activities span athletics, student government, performance arts and interest groups.
- Our school culture emphasizes the importance of social-emotional development in a caring a socially-safe environment. Students collaborate across grades and kindness is instilled and reinforced at every stage of development.
- We believe deeply in instilling core values including honesty, compassion, respect and responsibility. We aim to ensure every graduate goes onto high school with the confidence and tools to set and achieve positive goals.
- We value diversity and encourage students to embrace and share their unique backgrounds, stories and talents. And while we are a Catholic school, we enthusiastically welcome students of all faiths.
- We offer an education and individualized experience that exceeds the cost of tuition. Our families benefit from our robust fundraising programs and the consistent generosity of our community benefactors who make it possible to offer affordable excellence.