
August 28, 2025
Distinctive Schools is thrilled to have been selected as a beneficiary from Invest for Kids , a vanguard philanthropic organization supporting Chicago's youth! This funding will...

July 25, 2025
For many students, Kindergarten is their first step into school. At Distinctive Schools , it’s also the beginning of a joyful, personalized learning journey where every child is...

October 15, 2025
This blog is reposted with permission by NGLC. Find the original publication here . Noemi Simons is the Bilingual Program Manager at Distinctive Schools. Noemi Simons has ...

October 7, 2025
This is Part III in a three-part blog series exploring how Distinctive Schools is approaching artificial intelligence (AI) in education. From building custom tools to supporting ...

October 1, 2025
October is Principal Appreciation Month , and at Distinctive Schools, we deeply honor and recognize the incredible leaders who guide our campuses every day. This year, we are giv...

September 24, 2025
" WHO LET THE DOGS OUT? " The song bursts through the loudspeaker. Ms. Dominguez’s kindergarteners, who were patiently listening to the morning’s instructions on their carpet spot...

September 18, 2025
Distinctive Schools has been accepted into the League of Innovative Schools (The League), a national network of school districts that connects and supports the nation’s most fo...

September 8, 2025
As part of both our Personalized Learning Model and our Community Hub work, Distinctive Schools is deeply committed to providing all learners with what they need, when they need i...

August 8, 2025
As we step into a brand-new school year, we’re filled with excitement, hope, and deep gratitude for the journey ahead. This year, we’re anchored by belonging , consistency , and...

July 8, 2025
We’re excited to share our Anytime, Anywhere Learning Resources packed with summer activities, local events, and community opportunities happening all across the city. You can...

July 1, 2025
At Distinctive Schools, we believe that summer break is a vital opportunity for our community of students, families, and staff to rejuvenate and embrace the joys of the season. Wh...

Distinctive Schools Intends to Apply for Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant
June 25, 2025
At Distinctive Schools, we are committed to providing safe, inclusive, and engaging environments where all students thrive—during and beyond the traditional school day. As part of...

June 13, 2025
Distinctive Schools is buzzing with excitement, pride, and a touch of bittersweet farewells as we celebrate our incredible "Step Up" ceremonies across our campuses! This special...

June 10, 2025
This is Part II in a three-part blog series exploring how Distinctive Schools is approaching artificial intelligence (AI) in education. From building custom tools to supporting s...

June 9, 2025
Katie O’Connor , Vice President and Chief Education Officer at Distinctive Schools has been selected for the 2025–2026 cohort of the Google GSV Education Innovation Fellowship —...

CICS Loomis and CICS Longwood Elementary Community Peace Event Celebrating Art, Identity, and Action
June 5, 2025
On Wednesday, June 4, Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Loomis and Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Longwood Elementary opened their doors to the co...

June 2, 2025
At Distinctive Schools, we believe true education extends beyond traditional boundaries, encouraging students to explore their passions. Our music classrooms are excellent example...

May 30, 2025
On May 15, students from CICS Longwood and CICS Lloyd Bond had an unforgettable experience as they welcomed the National Basketball Athletic Equipment Managers Association (NBA...

May 15, 2025
May is Mental Health Awareness month. At Distinctive Schools, we believe in fostering a culture where open, compassionate conversations about mental health are encouraged and are ...

May 7, 2025
At Distinctive Schools, we want our students to dream big and explore future possibilities throughout their entire educational journey—high school, middle school, and elementary! ...