Distinctive Schools - Commit. Create. Collaborate

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...

" 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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 —...

On Wednesday, June 4, Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Loomis and Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Longwood Elementary opened their doors to the co...

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

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 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 ...

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! ...

CICS Loomis Primary , in partnership with Loews Chicago Hotel and Big City Readers recently unveiled their brand-new school library! The new library, made possible by the...

April is Stress Awareness Month—a reminder to prioritize mental well-being. With academic and daily demands, Distinctive Schools students and families should take intentional mome...