Student–Teacher Ratio & Instructional Model

At ICSJ, small class sizes and a collaborative teaching model ensure that every child is known, supported, and challenged. We proudly implement a co-teaching model in Junior Kindergarten through Grade 3, with two full-time certified teachers in every classroom. In Grades 4 and 5, a dedicated learning specialist partners with classroom teachers to provide co-teaching in Math and Language Arts. Students in Grades 6–8 benefit from a departmentalized structure, with specialized teachers holding secondary certifications in their content areas.

Our maximum student-to-teacher ratios by grade level are:

• Junior Kindergarten: 10:1

• Kindergarten–Grade 3: 12:1

• Grades 4–8: 24:1

Class composition is thoughtfully designed based on learning styles and resources to create the optimal environment for every student.

Exceptional Faculty

ICSJ is proud to employ an accomplished and mission-driven faculty. More than 75% of our teachers and staff have earned or are currently completing a Master’s degree, reflecting our commitment to excellence in teaching and lifelong learning.

Faith-Based Curriculum

Catholic identity is woven into every aspect of the ICSJ experience. Students grow spiritually and academically through:

• Daily religion instruction

• Regular prayer services and weekly Mass

• Sacramental preparation for Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation

• Meaningful participation in school-wide service initiatives

Faith formation is not separate from academics — it shapes who our students become.

Beyond the Core

Learning at ICSJ extends well beyond the core subjects. Students at every grade level engage with specialists in:

• Spanish

• Music

• Physical Education

• Fine Arts

• Library & Research

• STEM

These programs foster creativity, curiosity, and confidence.

High School Preparedness

ICSJ graduates are exceptionally well prepared for high school and beyond. Over 95% of our graduates are accepted to their first-choice high school each year. Our alumni thrive at Chicago’s most competitive Catholic, independent, and public selective-enrollment high schools.

Technology Integration

ICSJ provides a thoughtfully balanced, blended learning environment that integrates digital tools with best instructional practices.

• 1:1 iPad program for students in Kindergarten–Grade 8

• Weekly STEM classes for Kindergarten–Grade 8

• Junior Kindergarten STEAM integration during Center time

• Dedicated STEM labs on both campuses

• Projectors and Apple TVs in every classroom

• After-school technology and innovation clubs

Technology enhances learning — it never replaces strong teaching.

Facilities

ICSJ operates two campuses in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood:

• North Park Campus (1431 N. North Park Avenue): Junior Kindergarten–Grade 3

• Hill Street Campus (363 W. Hill Street): Grades 4–8

Together, our campuses offer:

• Science labs

• Dedicated art, music, and STEM classrooms

• Libraries

• Performance stages

• A full-size gymnasium

• Rock climbing walls

• Outdoor sports court

Each campus is intentionally designed to serve the developmental needs of its students.

Accreditation

Since 2006, ICSJ’s Early Childhood Program has proudly maintained accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC®), a distinction that recognizes excellence in early childhood education.

Athletics

Over 75% of students in Grades 4–8 participate in ICSJ’s competitive interscholastic athletic program. Sports include:

• Basketball

• Volleyball

• Flag Football

• Cross Country

Athletics build teamwork, discipline, and school spirit.

Extracurricular Opportunities

ICSJ offers more than 40 extracurricular clubs and classes throughout the year for students in Kindergarten–Grade 8, including:

Choir, musical theater, chess, yoga, art, LEGO builders, video game design, cooking, student council, piano, guitar, ukulele club, rock band, and Band for Today.

A Diverse & Vibrant Community

ICSJ families represent a wide range of backgrounds and reside in more than 28 Chicago zip codes, creating a vibrant and welcoming community rooted in shared faith and purpose.