Education Guide Winter 2015

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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

January 21, 2015

Special Advertising Section

winter 2015

Education Enrichment

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January 21, 2015

EDUCATION & enrichment GUIDE

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Learning Through All Aspects of Life at Keystone Montessori

Open HouSE: Sunday January 25th 2–4 pm 7415 W. North Ave. River Forest Call 708-366-1080 for more information

Parent/infant program • Toddler Class, ages 2-3 • Primary Class, ages 3-6 Elementary and Middle School • After school program for ages 5 and up You are welcome to observe a classroom. Call for an appointment.

A place where children love to learn KEYSToNE MoNTESSoRI SCHooL 7415 W. North Avenue, River Forest, IL 708/366-1080

Open Houses

Sunday, January 25 10:30 am-1:00 pm Thursdays, January 29 & February 12 6:00 pm-8:00 pm

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hildren come from far and wide to Keystone Montessori, a school that has gained the reputation as one of the country’s premier Montessori schools. “The beauty of Montessori education is that it takes into consideration the whole child,” says Vicki Shea, Keystone’s administrative coordinator. “The physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of children are nurtured as well as their academic development and each child is respected as an individual with unique abilities.”

If you’re wondering what Montessori education is all about, it’s based on the teachings of Maria Montessori, Italy’s first woman doctor who went on to become a renowned educator. From her observa­tions of the natural development of chil­ dren, she believed that a child’s indepen­dence, self-esteem and love of learning could flourish, given the right environment and with guidance from a properly trained teacher. Today, 100 years later, there are Montessori schools all over the world.

Keystone has a class for two-year olds, primary classes for 3-6 year olds, junior elementary classes for 6-9 year olds, senior elementary classes for 9-12 year olds and a middle school. There are parent/infant classes also. One of the hall­marks of Montessori education is group­ing together children of

different ages. “In this way children learn from each other,” says Shea. “It also helps the older children learn a sense of responsibility toward the younger ones.” Children learn by work­ ing with specially designed ‘materials’ in an age-appropriate environment which stimulates the senses and encourages exploration. The children are busy, each one involved in doing something either individually or in small groups. In one of the primary classrooms a three-year old is mopping the floor, and a five-year old is counting with a bead chain.

In the junior elementary classroom a student is researching snakes and in another part of the room, a group of students is analyzing the grammatical parts of a sentence with the teacher. “Many of Montessori’s obser­vations about how children learn have been borne out by recent research show­ing that children have windows in their development when they can best absorb things like language, music and math,” explains Shea. The school is proud of its consistently high academic achievement but places great emphasis on helping children become well-rounded, respon­sible members of society.

Keystone Montessori is holding an Open House on Sunday, January 25, 2–4 pm.

The school is located at 7415 W. North Ave., River Forest. 708/366-1080.

Dear Prospective Parent, For 98 years, St. Edmund Parish School has shaped the hearts and minds of children, preparing them to lead successful, faithful and happy lives. As pastor of St. Edmund Parish, I invite you to learn about what makes St. Edmund Parish School the unique learning environment that it is. I welcome you to come and see for yourself precisely what is the Edmund Advantage.

We offer a rigorous academic program for children of every age, striking the right balance between a focus on the fundamentals of reading and writing , mathematics and science, fostering a deep Christian faith, and forming a well-rounded student who is exposed to culture and the Arts. We are committed to developing the academic, spiritual, social and physical well-being of each student; and we have a zero-tolerance policy on bullying !

Our highly sought-after Early Childhood Program continues to offer a dynamic learning environment where our littlest ones benefit from all the opportunities that our first-eighth grade students receive, including art, music and physical education. Parents also appreciate that our tuition and fees are significantly less than other day-care opportunities, with the added benefit of being in a professional learning environment.

At St. Edmund Parish School, we don’t use a one-size-fits-all style of learning. We offer a transformative learning experience where each child is challenged based on his or her unique talents, gifts and needs. What all students have in common is our comprehensive and standalone technology curriculum, and the use of iPads, SMART boards and document cameras utilized in all facets of learning.

Our children are learning the Spanish language, and becoming engaged in the rich cultural heritage of the Spanish-speaking world . Their field of study also includes art and music, field trips to augment their classroom learning, and enrichment opportunities including: Chess Club, Student Council, School Newspaper Reporting , Choir, Band and Scouting.

Many students also enjoy participation in basketball, volleyball and cheerleading. During the summer hiatus, we offer Technology and Math Camps and Early Childhood Summer Camp too.

I invite you to join me at an upcoming Open House and learn more about what we call the Edmund Advantage.

-Fr. John McGivern, S1. Edmund Parish Pastor

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January 21, 2015

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EDUCATION & enrichment GUIDE

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Joseph Business School: Ignite Your Dream, Change Your Life.

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he Joseph Business School (JBS), established in 1998, was founded by Dr. Bill Winston to provide practical business and leadership teaching utilizing biblical principles. Our mission is to empower adults to be successful entrepreneurs and business leaders thus equipping them to eradicate poverty in their lives and communities which glorifies God. Our 9-month, nationally accredited entrepreneurship certificate program is offered at our Forest Park campus and online for your convenience. Students engage in rigorous course instruction covering topics that include leadership, marketing and sales, choosing a legal structure, and human resources. Classes are taught on weekends by a high caliber of experienced and dedicated faculty, some of whom are CEOs, top business executives and have expertise in various industries. Our online program provides 24/7 access to our teaching aids and curriculum to ensure online students have access to the same experience as our campus attendees.

The IL Small Business Development Center at JBS provides on-site counseling, training, and services for small business owners and new entrepreneurs. Â The

SBDC is committed to job creation in the surrounding communities and meeting the evolving needs of business owners at every stage of development. Schedule an appointment with one of our business advisors for counseling on securing funding, conducting marketing research, or any topic related to running your small business.

While some are called to become entrepreneurs, others may want to take their professional career to the next level. Our on-site Pearson Vue center provides certification testing for Microsoft Visual C++, CIW, Adobe, Linux and other programs.

Whether you’re looking to complete your GED, learn a new language or prepare for a promotion, the Career & Education Professional Development center can help you get from here to there.

Visit JBS.edu or call 708.697.6200 for more information.

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January 21, 2015

Run with the Wolfpack this winter & spring!

CUB INTRODUCTION TO BASKETBALL CAMP

@ St. Luke Starts: April 13th Ends: May 21st 1st-4th Grade Boys and Girls Mondays and Wednesdays** 5:00-6:00 (12 sessions) • $150 Each session will be composed of fun, individual and team contests, introducing each participant to the fundamentals of basketball. Prior basketball experience is not required

CUB OF THE DEN CAMP

JR. KING/QUEEN OF THE DEN CAMP

KING OF THE DEN CAMP

4th-5th Grade Boys and Girls Mondays and Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 Starts: April 13 Ends: May 20 (12 sessions) • $175

6th Grade Boys and Girls Mondays and Wednesdays 7:30-9:00 Starts: April 13 Ends: May 20 (12 sessions) • $175

7th-8th Grade Boys Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:15-9:00 Starts: April 14 Ends: May 21 (12 sessions) • $195

@ St. Luke

@ St. Luke

@ Fenwick HS

Part 1: Each session will start with a 17 minute shooting competition called “King of the Den” in which each player will be competing at their own pace against the clock for a chance to win a new pair of customized Wolfpack Shoes, to be determined.

Part 2: Teams will be drawn at random and players will compete in one of 5 unique Wolfpack games including the “Top Dog Tournament,” “33 Jumpstreet,” “Triple Threat” and others. Scores will be recorded and averages will be taken for another opportunity to win custom Wolfpack prizes.

Wolfpack Queen of the Den Camp @ St. Paul Lutheran • 1025 West Lake St., Melrose Park 5th-7th Grade (Girls) • Fridays 7:15-9:00 (8 sessions) Starts: February 6th Ends: March 27th $175.00 (includes camp shirt)

This program will feature an abundance of shooting work and ball handling in a competitive format as well as randomly drawn teams for games testing each player’s basketball IQ in our unique Wolfpack “Top Dog Competition.” Participants will have the opportunity to win custom Wolfpack awards such as Nike shoes, Wolfpack bags and other great items. As with our boys’ program, these camps may also fuel potential travel teams in our Wolfpack program.

Go to OakPark.com and see the article about Wolf Pack

by Wednesday Journal Sports Editor Marty Farmer.

Winter Spring Basketball Programs Grades K-8 • Starting February 6th at St. Paul

for more info, visit www.wolfpackschoolof basketball.com or email info@wolfpackschoolofbasketball.com

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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

Special Advertising Section

Sports and Coding Camps Join Together

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or the first time this summer, Code Play Learn is partnering with Legacy Sports to create an exciting new camp experience like no other: full-day Sports and Coding Camps. These camps are a fun, dynamic way to exercise both kids bodies and minds with sports games they can play and computer games they can make.

For more information on these and other Code Play Learn summer camps available to kids K-8th grade, like Minecraft Modding and Early Engineers, please visit www.codeplaylearn.com or call 708-3748286.

Through Legacy Sports, campers will spend half their day actively engaged in multisport athletic activities like Hand Hockey, Countdown Dodgeball, Treasure Island, Battleship, Capture the Flag and Soccer.

Through Code Play Learn, campers will spend the other half of the day creating, coding and building their own computer games, apps or robotics; specifically using Scratch Game Development, MIT’s App Creation Tool, LEGO Robotics and Little Bits Electronics. Together, this camp program enables each child to think creatively, reason systematically, and work and play collaboratively.

Sports and Coding Camps are open to kids who are currently in Kindergarten through second grade and third through sixth grade.

Camps will take place in Oak Park at Legacy Sports ARC, 18 W. Chicago Ave and Code Play Learn, 30 W. Chicago, just four doors apart.

A CARING COMMUNITY

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ounded in 1912, Ascension School has been providing excellent, Catholic education for families in our community for over a century. With thousands of alumni, many of whom have chosen Ascension for their children’s education, we continue to be a vibrant school, proud of our history, and ready to serve each new child who joins us.

Ascension School offers a faith-based

Join us for our Open House Sunday, Jan. 25th 10am-12:30PM

education for children ages three through eighth grade. To learn about our excellent preschool and elementary school, or for registration materials, please visit our website at: www.ascension-school.com 601 West Van Buren Avenue † Oak Park, IL 60304 † 708.386.7282

Ascension School offers a faith based education for children from three years old through the eighth grade. Our rigorous curriculum prepares students for the next level of education. We continue to provide a strong fine arts curriculum taught by highly qualified full time teachers. Ascension students consistently score above national norms on standardized tests at all grade levels. In 2007, Ascension received the U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Award.

In addition to an excellent elementary school education, Ascension provides: • An excellent Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds, with certified teachers and a student teacher ratio less than 10 to 1 • An outstanding, affordable Extended Day Program open from 7AM to 6PM on school days.

• Two full-day Kindergarten classrooms

• A variety of Extracurricular Programs including band, orchestra, and drama club • Competitive athletic leagues for grades 5 8 in soccer, cross country, basketball and volleyball • Tablets available in classrooms to supplement traditional educational materials • Anti-bullying initiative and a “buddy” mentoring program to connect upper and lower grade students • A service-oriented student council We know that parents have many wonderful options when choosing the right school for their children. When you choose Ascension School, be confident that you are providing your children with more than an academic experience, you are giving them the gift of a caring community and the opportunity to learn in an environment that promotes the principles of Love, Kindness and Respect.

All-School Open House Sunday, January 25, 2015 10:00am-12:30pm

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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

January 21, 2015

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Helping YOU Champion Your Child’s Education

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t is no secret that your child’s education is important to his future. In today’s educational environment of frequent policy changes and the performance pressures, your child‘s educational needs too often lose out. Other times students with learning disabilities are not appropriately diagnosed because of lack of school resources and therefore struggle to function in the classroom. The cycle of poor school performance continues when a child’s low learning motivation results from low selfesteem, or traumatic family experiences, or lack of affordable help. This vicious cycle of low self-esteem and failing grades eventually leads giving up on school and high school drop outs.

with academic support. You will need the best that professionals can offer without paying a hardship-causing price for it. The latest research shows that specialized, intensive, motivating and culturally relevant tutoring can turn around failures best identified after first grade. You are your child’s best advocate. So act soon, better yet, Act Now! DR. BILL’S LEARNING CENTERS are organized to support students in second grade through tenth grade. We provide an evidence-based program that are family focused and holistic. Our interdisciplinary team is dedicated to individualized, special instruction to improving the educational outcomes for children like yours. Our unique integrated services includes family support, art therapy, creative skills and stress management, nutrition counseling, computerized test preparation. and mentoring services to empower our students. All our efforts focus on mastering fundamental skills that will strengthen your child’s self-confidence, organization and cognitive skills for life. We look forward to answering your questions, serving your special students, or just providing encouragement to make this and every school year a great one. Your children deserve a productive future.

Our unique integrated services includes family support, art therapy, creative skills and stress management, nutrition counseling, computerized test preparation. and mentoring services to empower our students.

Most educational settings do not adequately address student’s weak educational foundation.

Failing grades become routine.

Benchmark school years are still too often repeated endangering chances for a select high school acceptance. If this sounds familiar to you and your child needs serious support, then DR. BILL’S LEARNING CENTERS can offer professional help. We are not just homework helpers, our specialized tutors and therapists offer educational rehabilitation serious individualized support. We focus on building the foundation your child requires to succeed in the challenging environment in his or her school. If you are seeking an added supportive opportunity for special service for students with special education needs, organizational challenges, time management, test taking strategies and motivational issues, DR. BILL’S LEARNING CENTERS CAN HELP. Every high school today makes every assignment and test counts. We know that every good grade increases the chance for every college scholarship dollar. Good paying jobs are waiting for your child only with high qualifications. If a child achieves poorly within their first two years of high school, the academic failure may lead to dropout and a lifetime of low income jobs in a still very tough economy. This path can be avoided

SPRING TEST-PREP

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January 21, 2015

Special Advertising Section

Learning from and with each other

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ounded in 1961, Alcuin Montessori School offers a cross-curricular learning environment balancing academic and emotional intelligence. We partner with parents and provide students the tools to become highly-skilled independent thinkers with a passion for knowledge. Our programs are designed to help each child become confident, curious, self-disciplined and motivated.

At Alcuin, classrooms operate on the principle of freedom within limits.

Children, under the guidance of a teacher, work at their own pace with materials of their choosing. Each student may work alone or with others; different levels of ability are expected and welcomed within each classroom. Education occurs in multi-aged classrooms where children of various stages of development learn from and with each other.

Our programs for ages 0-14 include: * Parent/Infant - Fridays, 8:45 to 10:30 a.m. * Three to Five Day Toddler/Parent, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. * Primary, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. * Full-Day Kindergarten,

8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. * Junior and Senior Elementary, 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. * Middle School, 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. * Before/After School Care * Art * Musical Theater * Spanish Families currently attending Alcuin come from Oak Park, as well as Berwyn, Broadview, Brookfield, Chicago, Cicero, Elmhurst, Forest Park, River Forest, Riverside, River Grove and more.

We welcome all prospective parents to join us for our monthly informational Coffees. We will start with some good coffee, a short video on Montessori education and then take an in-depth look into all of our classrooms. At the end of the tour we hold a question and answer session, and explain our admissions process. Tours are held throughout the school year on Thursdays (9:00-11:00 a.m.) at the main Alcuin campus. Visit Alcuin.org for tour dates. To enroll in a tours please e-mail our Director of Advancement at avalera@ alcuin.org or call 708.366.1882.

St. Vincent Ferrer School SUNDAY, JANUARY 25th 2015 8:00 A.M.– 1:00 P.M. and

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29th 2015 6:00 P.M.– 8:00 P.M. Or call today to schedule a tour!

Where GREATNESS Begins SVF

St. Vincent Ferrer School 1515 Lathrop Avenue River Forest IL, 60305 708.771.5905 www.svfschool.org

EDUCATION & enrichment Special Advertising Section

GUIDE

January 21, 2015

Looking for more than just a high school? You found it at Walther Christian Academy!

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them, our seniors excelling in college and elp your student get more out many working and studying overseas. Fourth, of high school by setting them our school’s diversity equips you with the up for success. Give them the empathy, communication skills and social advantage of a Walther education. Since awareness to connect with anyone, anywhere.

1954, Walther has been the chosen school Fifth, we ensure you develop the academic for families looking for a superior college fundamentals, confidence and character to preparatory education built on a Christian become the student you are meant to be. foundation. We are proud to have 100% Finally, no matter your college acceptance for our religion, you’ll find Christ graduating seniors each here, and He will find you, year with most students “Whenever I think enlighten you, inspire you, earning significant merit back about my years and guide you, in good scholarships and financial times and bad aid. Beyond that, what at Walther, I literally “Whenever I think back makes Walther MORE? get a smile on my face. about my years at Walther, First, your student will experience more here, Those four years were I literally get a smile on my face. Those four years exploring their intellect, truly some of the best were truly some of the best spirituality, leadership years of my life,” quote abilities, athleticism, years of my life.” from a Walther Alum. We musicality, and artistry quote from a Walther Alum are here to help your child sometimes all in the same grow. Choosing the right day. Second, our culture high school is an important make us seem more a decision in not only the student’s life, but the university than high school with managed entire family. Choose MORE.www.walther. class sizes, advanced courses, candid com discussions, and a collaborative faculty.

Third, your student can someday change the world, because like Walther alumni before

Polish French Arabic

Spanish Russian German

Japanese Chinese and more!

Piano Guitar Bassoon

Violin Voice Trumpet

Clarinet Saxophone and more!

Friday, January 23, 8am Special Visitation Opportunity

Saturday, February 21, 8am Saturday, March 21, 8am

Try out a class of your choice!

A trial lesson is only $28, and a second trial is just $10.

Sign up today!

Ask us about our “free promotrials”!!!

Celebrating our 20 Anniversary!! th

Call us about our Parent & Tot Spanish Program and our Spanish Preschool and Kindergarten Placement Visits

Please join us to learn more about Montessori education, meet our teachers, childcare staff and the parents of currently-enrolled children at our open house.

Sunday, January 25 2-4pm

1039 South East Avenue Oak Park, IL 60304 | 708.848.2662 peggerding@wsms.org | wsms.org | facebook.com/westsuburbanmontessori Accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale-USA. WSMS celebrates diversity. All are welcome

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January 21, 2015 PRE-K – 12TH GRADE

SAT, ACT & ISEE TEST PREP HOMEWORK HELP SUMMER PROGRAMS

1st-12th GradePRE-K sat, aCt & IseeSAT, test heLP sUMMer PrOGraMs TH – 12 GRADE ACTPreP & ISEE hOMeWOrK TEST PREP HOMEWORK HELP SUMMER PROGRAMS

Mathnasium teaches math in a way that makes sense

M We We Make Math Make Math Make Sense Make Sense

WE ARE EXPERIENCED WESPECIALISTS ARE EXPERIENCEDFREE CONSULTATION MATH MATH SPECIALISTS FREE CONSULTATION

An in-depth look at howSt.the Giles School

An in-depth look at how the WE TEACH ALL LEVELS Mathnasium Method works 1034 North Linden Ave. WE TEACH ALL LEVELS Mathnasium Method works and how we can meet OF MATH ABILITY Oakyour Park, Illinois 60302 and how we can meet your OF MATH ABILITY family’s needs.

family’s needs.

Susan Poetzel, Principal 708.383.6279 www.stgilesschool.org www.mathnasium.com/ mathnasium.com/your web address Mathnasium Oak Park/river Forest Yourof Location oakparkriverforest mathnasium.com/your web address 123 Any StreetLocation Rd. 212 s.Your Marion st., 800-123-4567 123 Any Street Rd. 708.613.4007 Any Town, 90000 800-123-4567 Oak Park,ST IL 60302 Any Town, ST 90000 mathnasium.com/your web address

PROVEN RESULTS PROVEN RESULTS

oakparkriverforest@mathnasium.com mathnasium.com/your web address

2014-15 St. Giles School Open House St. Giles School St. Giles School 1034 North Linden Ave. St. Giles SchoolNorth 1034 Linden Ave. Oak Park, Illinois 60302 1034 North Linden Ave. Oak 60302 Park, Illinois 60302 Oak Park, Illinois Sunday, JanuarySusan 26,Poetzel, 2014 Susan Poetzel, Principal Principal Susan Poetzel, Principal 708.383.6279 12:30 pm – 2:30708.383.6279 pm Open House 708.383.6279 www.stgilesschool.org www.stgilesschool.org St. Giles Church and School www.stgilesschool.org 1025 Columbian Ave., Oak Park Prospective family presentation in church followed by campus tours

2015-16 St. Giles School Open House

2014-15 St.Sunday, Giles Open 2014-15 St.School Giles School Open House January 25,House 2015

athnasium gets results in math eduction by utilizing time-tested approaches to build each student’s math understanding and skills. Worldwide, Mathnasium has helped tens of thousands of children grow not only to understand math, but to love it.

The Mathnasium Method™ was created

by Larry Martinek, an experienced public and private school teacher for over 35 years.

Larry found that when it came to math education, there was a vast disconnect between students’ learning skills and the curriculum they were expected to master. He realized that the only way to give students the strong mathematical foundation they needed, was to identify the students’ current skill levels and propel them forward by teaching them math in a way that made sense to them.

Assembling a blend of methods and materials that had proven highly effective for students of all ages, Larry developed the Mathnasium Method. Instead of relying on memorization and repetition, Larry’s approach focused on helping children build deep mathematical understanding through a combination of mental, visual, verbal, tactile, and written exercises. His classroom experience showed that teaching children conceptually worked much better

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t. Giles School offers a faith-based academic program for pre-school through 8th Grade. St. Giles School, a 2010 U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Award winner for academic excellence, fosters the intellectual, physical, social and spiritual growth of our elementary school children.

students scored in the highest quartiles in all curriculum content areas in 2014. Technology instruction and integration is a critical aspect Prospective family presentation in church followed by campus tours Nurturing Community Lifelong Leadership of the St. Giles curriculum. Students follow standards set by the National Educational Academic Excellence Catholic Values Nurturing Community Lifelong Leadership Technology Standards for Students (ISTE).

In 2013, St. Giles launched a program to Registration Academic Excellence Catholic Values Nurturing Community Lifelong Leadership provide every 7th and 8th grade student Applications will be accepted at the open house.

Copies of birth certificates and baptismal certificates are required for registration. with an iPad to enhance classroom learning.

Registration Application Fee: $150 for preschool, $250 for Kindergarten through 8th grade.

Applications will be accepted at the open house.

St. Giles strives to continually update and Copies of birth certificates and baptismal certificates are required for registration. strengthen its academic curriculum and last Application Fee: $150 for preschool, $250 for Kindergarten through 8th grade. year implemented the state-adopted Common Registration Core standards, described as a more rigorous Applications will be accepted at the open house.

Recognized as a method of teaching and learning English and 2010 National Blue Copies of birth certificates and baptismal math.

Ribbon SchoolNational by the Blue Ribbon certificates are required forDepartment registration.of Education.

Recognized as a 2010 School by the U.S. In addition to academic excellence, St. U.S. Department of Application Fee: $153 for preschool, Education Giles emphasizes a wide range of enrichment $253 for Kindergarten through 8th grade. opportunities. St. Giles athletics feature competitive interscholastic sports for Recognized as a 2010 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.

than standard repetition and allowed students to develop Number Sense – a critical foundation for understanding math.

The approach was groundbreaking.

At the Mathnasium of Oak Park/ River Forest, we work with students from first grade through high school. Beginning with a comprehensive written and oral assessment of your child’s math skills, we go on to construct a Customized Learning Plan that targets skill gaps and develops Number Sense. Students then receive personalized instruction that caters to their individual needs, combining techniques that work with all different learning styles – written, mental, verbal, visual, and tactile.

All the work within your child’s learning plan takes place under the direct supervision of highly trained Mathnasium instructors in the center. In addition to the learning plan, Mathnasium students also receive homework help to solidify their understanding of concepts that are being covered in their current classwork.

Mathnasium of Oak Park/River Forest is located at 212 S. Marion St. in Oak Park.

For more information on how we can help your child excel and soar in math, call 708-613-4007.

Academic excellence, leadership, and Catholic values

St. Giles provides its students with a 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm Open House challenging Academic Excellence Values Nurturing Community Lifelong Leadership curriculum emphasizing core St.Catholic Giles Church and School academic subjects. Academic success is Sunday, January 26, 2014 demonstrated in part by the annual Terra 1025 Columbian Ave., Oak Park Sunday, January Registration 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm Open House 26, 2014 Nova Standardized test scores. St. Giles Applications be pm accepted atHouse the open house. tours Prospective family presentation church followed by campus 12:30 pm –will 2:30 Open St. Giles Church andin School Copies of1025 birth certificates and baptismal certificates Columbian Oak Park and St.Ave., Giles Church School are required for registration.

Academic Catholic Values through 8th grade.

Prospective family presentation in church followed Ave., by campus Application Fee:Excellence $150 for preschool, $250 for tours Kindergarten 1025 Columbian Oak Park

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grades 5-8 with co-ed soccer, boys and girls basketball, and boys and girls volleyball.

Intramural sports programs are available for grades K-8 throughout the school year and summer. Students have the opportunity to participate in one or more of St. Giles Schools’ five bands. Band begins in 4th grade and weekly private lessons are avilable during school hours. Students in grades 1-8 participate in a Spanish language program.

St. Giles School is committed to providing a quality education that prepares students to be people of faith, strong leaders, and to serve the community. We believe students need to participate in a creative learning process amidst diversified teaching styles, nurturing the uniqueness of each child. Working individually, and in community with others, our graduates develop a sense of personal responsibility toward self, school, parish and their comminity.

St. Giles School is a welcoming, proud and vibrant school community that celebrates every student for their classroom achievments, awards, athletic milestones, and service to others.

New student applications can be submitted beginning January 25, 2015 after our Open House.

St. Giles School 1034 Linden Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 383-6279 www.stgilesschool.org

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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

why choose St. Luke Parish School?

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rom our NAEYC accredited early childhood program through 8th grade, St. Luke Parish School, a 2012 National Blue Ribbon School, prides itself on the opportunity to educate the whole child; promoting spiritual, academic and emotional growth. We offer playgroup for our youngest St. Luke Bearcats, three-year and four-year old preschool, full day kindergarten through 8th grade. We are proud to confidently send our 8th grade graduates to the areas most competitive high schools.

We recognize that every child is unique and that each child learns at his or her own pace.

With this in mind, we provide an academically challenging curriculum that meets the needs of all our students. Our faculty strives to differentiate instruction in an effort to meet student strengths. Our accelerated math program, which offers Algebra II, prepares our students for the rigorous challenges of high school. Small group learning opportunities ensure each child is achieving to his/her maximum potential.

We know that each student has untapped gifts that are best nurtured by a variety of creative approaches to learning. Our enrichment projects work in conjunction with the high academic standards of our curriculum and extend key concepts and ideas into more complex, interdisciplinary settings.

Students in grades kindergarten through five are given a benchmark assessment three times per year in reading and mathematics using

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As my third year at Intercultural begins, I would like to state how proud I am of the work that the teachers perform on a daily basis. That is where the magic happens, and I’ve found that it is true that the teachers are the soul of the school. As an Intercultural parent, I appreciated how hard the teachers work, but now as an administrator I understand and recognize the many subtle skills the job requires. For example: knowing how to observe constructively, and when,

St. Luke Parish School

AIMSweb. The AIMSweb results allow our teachers to track individual student academic growth to drive instruction in the classroom to meet academic needs of the students. Our resource teachers, who plan with our classroom teachers at all grade levels on a weekly basis, work with students in small groups to enrich and remediate instruction.

Academic Excellence Surrounded by Catholic Faith

Our commitment to technology offers students a fully integrated, cutting edge academic experience. Our wireless campus includes a state-of-the art Mac computer lab, MacBook laptops, iPads, interactive whiteboards and document cameras, as well as a one-to-one iPad pilot program in grade 3.

We combine technological adeptness alongside the essential building blocks of learning. We understand that technology is an essential link between the classroom and the larger world.

Learning goes beyond the classroom as our students participate in a wide variety of enrichment activities. Students may participate in STEM http://stemforward4kids. com/, an after-school learning initiative designed to compliment and stretch our standard course of study in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

From Speech Club and Choir to Art Club and Yearbook…and more, extra-curricular activities extend learning opportunities into social activities outside the classroom environment.

Additionally, St. Luke offers students in grades 4 through 8 year-round organized no-cut team sports.

A Note from Intercultural Montessori Language School From Oak Park Campus Manager – Roderick Shaw

or almost 30 years, Oak Park residents have been driving, biking, and walking

by Intercultural Montessori on S. Ridgeland Avenue with smiles on their faces as they watch the children at play. But they might not be aware that Intercultural is the originator of our unique dual-language/ Montessori approach to education, providing Spanish/English and Chinese Mandarin/ English programs for children aged 3 to 6.

It’s an approach that has been imitated but not reproduced, and it has gotten us a lot of positive attention with Montessori schools, teachers, and associations. That’s because it works, and I’m so happy to be a part of creating bi-lingual, bi-literate citizens of the world right here in Oak Park.

January 21, 2015

how, and how much to intervene, is the key secret to a successful Montessori teacher.

It’s a talent our teachers have acquired through their Montessori training and years of teaching at Intercultural. I would like to thank our teachers for their hard work, and congratulate them on the continued growth of our dual-language program.

As we grow, we continue to improve our school infrastructure at the Oak Park campus, including the installation of a new state-of-the-art security system. This week, the students harvested their first vegetables from our new organic garden! And more upgrades are coming as this new school year begins.

It is extremely fulfilling to see Intercultural’s continued growth. To me it means that Oak Park recognizes the value of the unique duallanguage education we are providing. From all of us on the Intercultural team, it is our pleasure to serve you, and the children of this vibrant community.

Roderick Shaw, Oak Park Campus Manager Intercultural Montessori Language School 708-848-6626 rshaw@interculturalmontessori.org

Open House Sunday, January 25 St. Luke Parish School Academic Excellence Surrounded by Catholic Faith 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Preschool through 8th grade Open House Sunday, January 25 10:00 am –12:00 pm th Preschool through 8 grade

St. Luke Parish School

519 St. Ashland Avenue,School River Forest, IL Luke Parish 708-366-8587 519 Ashland Avenue River Forest, IL www.school-stlukeparish.org 708-366-8587 www.school-stlukeparish.org

• Pioneers in Language Immersion Montessori Education • Ages 3-12 • Spanish/English, Japanese/English and Chinese Mandarin/English

LEArn MorE! nEW! After School Language Classes Oak Park Campus 708-848-6626 Chicago Campus 312-265-1514 info@interculturalmontessori.org InterculturalMontessori.org

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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

January 21, 2015

Advertise in the

2015

Special Advertising Section

Are you excited about your Summer Camp program? This is the time to tell everyone about it!

Publish Date:

February

11

th

Ad Deadline: Feb. 6th

Get your message out to thousands of households in Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park, Riverside, North Riverside and Brookfield. That’s a huge audience of parents and kids all looking for fun things to do this summer!

Buy a 1/8 page ad or larger and get a FREE 100 word listing!

To advertise, call 708-524-8300

EDUCATION & enrichment Special Advertising Section

Join the fun in the Early Childhood Program at the River Forest Community Center!

T

he River Forest Community Center provides an age-appropriate curriculum designed to encourage positive group interaction as well as foster individual growth.

Our teachers thrive on creating a safe and fun learning environment through play in which children are encouraged to explore and develop their cognitive, language, social-intellectual and motor skills.

GUIDE

January 21, 2015

River River Forest Community Center River Forest Forest Community Community Center Center RiverChildhood Forest Community Center Early Learning Early Childhood Learning Center Early Childhood Learning Center Center

Early Childhood Learning Center **Please join us at our **** **Please join us at our **Please join us at our ** ** **Please join us at our

Early Childhood Early Childhood Early Childhood Early Childhood Open Open House Open House House

The River Forest Community Center is located at 8020 Madison Street in River Forest.

Wednesday, January 29th Open House Wednesday, January 29th Wednesday, January 29th 6:30 pm —8:00 pm Wednesday, February 6:30 pm —8:00 pm 6:30 pm —8:00 pm 4th

For more information about the Early Childhood Programs, call 708-771-6159.

6:30 pm —8:00 pm

 Half-Day & Full-Day:  Half-Day & Full-Day:  Half-Day && Full-Day:  Half-Day Full-Day: Preschool & Pre-K

Preschool & Preschool & Pre-K Pre-K Preschool & Pre-K  Before and After School Care  School Care Before Beforeand andAfter After School  Before and After School CareCare

Our mission is to provide a hands-on approach to learning which allows the children to explore their environment while enhancing their social, emotional, cognitive and motor development.

 Summer Camps Summer Camps  Camps Summer Summer Camps

Parent Parent and Programs  and TotTot Programs   Parent Parent and and Tot Tot Programs Programs  Full-Day Infant—Preschool Full-Day Infant—Preschool Full-Day Infant—Preschool Full-Day Infant—Preschool Programs at our OPRF HS location Programs at our OPRF HS Programs at our OPRF HS Programs at our OPRF HS

Classes start as young as 15 months of age.

The Early Childhood Programs include: • Munchkins

8020Madison Madison Street 8020 Street 8020 Madison Street 8020 Madison Street RiverForest Forest, 60305 River , ILIL 60305 River River Forest Forest ,, IL IL 60305 60305 (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 off your off

• Playschool • Preschool (Half-Day & Full-Day) • Pre-Kindergarten (Half-Day & Full-Day)

Bring in this ad to $10.00 your Bring in this adregistration to receive receive $10.00 off your your initial fee!off edguide15 initial registration fee! edguide14 initial registration fee! edguide14 initial registration fee! edguide14

• Before & After School Programs

Montessori Language Academy Where Global Education Begins

(708) 771-5030

314 Circle Ave. Forest Park, IL 60130 www.MontessoriLanguageAcademy.com • • • • •

For the 1 in 5 kids with learning and attention issues, every day can be a challenge. Explore Understood.org, a free online resource designed to help you help your child thrive in school and in life.

Brought to you by 15 nonprofit partners.

understood.org

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Japanese Language Immersion Program 3-6 Years Old 7:30 am - 6 pm, 5 days/week Summer Program Available Call for Classroom Observation

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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

January 21, 2015

Special Advertising Section

eg

R s se as Cl

! 20 ow n. r N t Ja r sta

e ist

Get started with Triton courses in your neighborhood

We’re making it more convenient for you to earn college credit close to home. Take a look at what courses are offered in your neighborhood.

At Oak Park and River Forest High School, 201 N. Scoville, Oak Park Course Title

Course No.

Intro. to Psychology Intro. to Sociology Intro. to Philosophy Listening to Music Principle of Effect Speaking Freshman Rhetoric & Comp I Intro. to Psychology Intro. to Social Psychology

PSY 100 025 SOC 100 022 PHL 101 011 MUS 110 017 SPE 101 038 RHT 101 036 PSY 100 024 PSY 201 003

Lab Fee

Sem. Hrs. Day

Start Time

End Time

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM

9:45 PM 9:45 PM 9:45 PM 9:30 PM 9:45 PM 9:50 PM 8:45 PM 9:45 PM

T T W W W Th Th Th

At Elmwood Park High School, 8201 W. Fullerton, Elmwood Park

Loc.

Start Date

End Date

OP OP OP OP OP OP OP OP

1/20 1/20 1/21 1/21 1/21 1/22 1/22 1/22

5/12 5/12 5/13 5/13 5/13 5/14 5/14 5/14

9:45 PM RW 9:45 PM RW

1/20 1/21

5/12 5/13

Course Title

Course No.

Lab Fee

Sem. Hrs. Day

Introduction to Social Work SOC 175 003 3 Intro to Physical Anthropology ANT 102 002 $15.00 3

T T

Start Time

End Time

7:00 PM 6:00 PM

9:45 PM EP 8:45 PM EP

Loc.

Start Date

End Date

1/20 1/20

5/12 5/12

At Riverside|Brookfield High School, 160 Ridgewood Road, Riverside Film History and Appreciation MCM 150 007 Intro to Philosophy PHL 101 012 Intro to Sociology SOC 100 021

3 3 3

T T W

7:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM

9:30 PM RB 8:45 PM RB 8:45 PM RB

1/20 1/20 1/21

5/12 5/12 5/13

At Ridgewood High School, 7500 W. Montrose, Norridge Intro. to Psychology PSY 100 026 Intro to Cultural Anthropology ANT 103 003

3 3

T W

7:00 PM 7:00 PM

For more information, call (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3130.

NEW REGISTRATION PROCESS

Effective spring 2015, class registration will close at 11:59 p.m. on the day before the scheduled start date of each class. Registration for classes already in session will not be allowed. For more information, go to www.triton.edu/rethink.

(708) 456-0300, Ext. 3130 www.triton.edu

2000 Fifth Ave. • River Grove, IL 60171 Triton College is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution.

1964-2014

Your Life is Sacred...

Handle with Care!

Start Your Journey Now: Learn real Skills for your Real Life Register for Presidents’ Day Camp

7 0 8 . 3 8 3 . 3 4 5 6 | 67 0 1 W. N o r t h Av e . , o A k PA r k | W W W. m A s t e r-s h -y u . c o m

Special Advertising Section

EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

January 21, 2015

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter

2015

eduCATiON eNriChmeNT

D

guide ...runs all year long!

on’t miss your opportunity to promote your school, classes, and enrichment programs in this special education supplement. Reach thousands of parents in Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park.

Schedule: 2015 Publish: Mar 18th 2015 • Deadline: Fri Mar 13th

Special Adver tising

Education Enrichment

&

Section

fall 2014

g u id e

Publish: June 10 2015 • Deadline: Fri June 5th Publish: Aug 5th 2015 • Deadline: Fri July 30th

Is your school having an open house?

What classes do you offer?

Buy a quarter page ad or larger & get a FREE story!

Reserve your space: 708.524.8300

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January 21, 2015

EDUCATION & enrichment GUIDE

Special Advertising Section

The following Catholic Elementary Schools are opening their doors to parents from Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park and surrounding communities during

National Catholic Schools Week Sunday, January 25– Saturday, January 31, 2015

For parents seeking a value-based education and academic excellence for their grade school children, the following open house events are the perfect opportunity to learn more about the many advantages of sending your children to Catholic School. Parents can tour buildings, get familiar with individual curriculums and other program enhancements including: computer training, foreign language programs, athletics, band, summer enrichment classes, and affordable preschool and after-school day care. Most of all, hear from administrators, faculty and students about what a difference the Catholic environment can make in the positive development of your child.

ASCENSION SCHOOL

601 Van Buren St., Oak Park, IL 60304 708/386-7282 Fax: 708/524-4796 ascension-school.com Principal: Mary Jo Burns All-School Open House: Sunday, January 25, 2015 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

ST. EDMUND PARISH SCHOOL

“Where Academics, Faith and Diversity are Woven as One” Founded in 1917.

A Dominican University Partner 200 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 708/386-5131 stedmundschool.org Principal: Mike Sweeney Pastor: Fr. John W. McGivern • PreK-3 to 8th grade • All day and half day PreK-3 and PreK-4 • Before/after-care program • Music, Art, Spanish and Gym • Enrichment program Open Houses: Sunday, January 25, 2015 10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Thursdays, January 29 and February 12, 2015 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Individual appointments can also be arranged.

ST. GILES PARISH SCHOOL

1034 N. Linden Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 708/383-6279 stgilesschool.org Principal: Susan Poetzel Grades P3 through 8 Open House: Sunday, January 25, 2015 12:30 –2:30 p.m.

The Open House begins with a presentation in the Church followed by school tours.

ST. LUKE PARISH SCHOOL

Academic Excellence Surrounded by Catholic Faith 519 Ashland Ave., River Forest, IL 60305 708/366-8587 school-stlukeparish.org Principal: Therese Craig • Grades Pre3 through 8 • National Blue Ribbon School • NAEYC-accredited • Small group learning • Fine Arts Program including music, art, Spanish, and technology Open House: Sunday, January 25, 2015 Family Mass: 9:00 am (in school gym) Tours: 10:00 am–Noon Can’t make the open house? Please call the school office to schedule an individual tour at your convenience.

ST. VINCENT FERRER PARISH SCHOOL

1515 Lathrop Ave., River Forest, IL 60305 708/771-5905 svfparish.org/school Principal: Dr. Charles Terry Pre-K through 8th Grade All Day and 1/2 day 3 & 4 year old options New State-of-the-Art Playground Open Houses: Sunday, January 25, 2015 8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 29, 2015 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Accepting applications.