January 26, 2022 19
Special Advertising Section E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E
n o i t a c u Ed t n e m h c i r n E 2 2 0 2 r e t n i W
and
guide
l o cal s ch o ols | ea rl y lea rning | tu torin g p ro g ra ms
20
E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E
January 26, 2022
E
Mid-year New singers welcome! www.promusicayouthchorus.com
GET OUT THERE!
Singing brings joy to children and their families
lla Fitzgerald said the only thing better than singing is more singing — and MORE SINGING is what we’ve been doing at Pro Musica for more than thirty years — helping young people grow, learn, and experience real joy through singing together. There is no better time to be a part of a chorus. Making music together offers much-needed warmth and comfort, and we take COVID precautions seriously so that our singers know that they’re as safe as possible. Last year, we bundled up for outdoor rehearsals, sang from our bedrooms in Zoom rehearsals, and made video-editing experts out of our artistic staff. This year, we cautiously returned to in-person rehearsals and performances, with enthusiastic kids, supportive parents, and dedicated staff. Being live and in-person is exactly what we need, and hearing these kids sing their way out the door following rehearsal is an absolute joy. Choral singing has a tremendous and positive impact on well-being. Got
Scan the QR code for upcoming joining events or find us online
Troop16oakpark.com Troop16@gmail.com
Troop 16 Oak Park
an anxious kid at home? Send them our way! Singing brings joy to the singers, the listeners, and the parents — who can stand back and bask for a moment, seeing their children find a second home in the chorus, embrace vulnerability by being safely part of a group, and simply have fun with friends. Pro Musica is a community-based non-profit group of singers in 2nd grade through high school. We offer a performance-based program that teaches musical skills, promotes poise and personal responsibility, and develops teamwork and leadership through singing a variety of repertoire from challenging classical works to Broadway tunes. To experience unique performance opportunities and high quality vocal education, come sing with us! Midyear enrollment is open, and no experience is necessary —visit www. promusicayouthchorus.org or email pmyouthchorus@gmail.com. Sing on!
Not many youth organizations in Oak Park can say they’ve been around since 1916 Boy Scout Troop 16 is one of them
O
Now looking for boys in 5th, 6th, & 7th grade HIKING! FISHING! SUMMER CAMP!
Special Advertising Section
ur core mission, and that of Scouts, B.S.A., has not changed much over the years. Character development of young men through a robust, boy-lead outdoor program of camping, hiking, fishing, and more. “The boys decide what to do and where to go. It’s always been like that and it will always be like that,” says current scoutmaster and Troop 16 alum Andrew Lennie. What’s enabled our success is a continuity in leadership. In the last 38 years, the Troop has had just 4 Scoutmasters. “We have a very committed group of trained volunteer adults who take pride in helping deliver a safe and effective program,” says assistant scoutmaster Andrew Campbell. Troop 16 meets most Friday nights during the school year (unless we’re camping) from 7:30-9:00pm at the home of our longtime sponsoring organization, First United Church of Oak Park, 848 Lake Street.
Key to the success is the outdoor program. The Troop camps 11 months a year, including weekend trips to state parks, weeks-long sleep-away camp experiences, and “high adventure” treks to the Boundary Waters, Colorado, and even Alaska. “Spending time in outdoors has been shown to improve attention span, lower stress, reduce obesity, and increase empathy and cooperation,” says Dr. Chris Clardy, a Troop 16 assistant Scoutmaster and local pediatrician. If you want your son to experience the great outdoors, learn leadership skills, and become a better citizen, there is no better choice the the Boy Scout program as carried out by Troop 16. The Troop is currently looking for boys in 5th, 6th, and 7th grade to join and has several events upcoming where boys and parents can find out more information; including a home made ice cream night, a “Day at the Dunes,” and a kickball and coffee event. A list of those events is at www.Troop16OakPark.com.
Special Advertising Section
E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E
Ascension School Enriches Minds, Bodies and Souls
F
or over 110 years, Ascension has provided an excellent Catholic education in the spirit of love, kindness and respect. Our community supports and understands the value of Catholic education and is dedicated to the academic, social and spiritual growth of our children. Our goal is to create a positive atmosphere where students can grow in a safe, challenging and faith-filled learning environment.
To support the ever-changing technology needs, every classroom has access to iPads and chrome books. Students of every age are also exposed to comprehensive STEM opportunities. Beginning in preschool, Ascension encourages every child to think deeply about the world around them. In the 2021 – 2022 school year, Ascension School was proud to be recognized as a Museum of Science and Industry School Partner.
Ascension School believes that children deserve a well-rounded education that enriches their minds, bodies and souls. Ascension provides outstanding fine and performing arts programs and extracurricular athletic programs that promote teamwork, community and inclusion.
Come and learn about what Ascension School can offer your child at our Catholic Schools Week Open House on January 30th from 11:30am to 1:00pm or make an appointment for a private tour at https:// school.ascensionoakpark.com.
With an average student to teacher ratio of 13:1, our faculty has the opportunity to work with our students individually to help them achieve their academic goals. The Ascension faculty and staff understands that students learn and develop in different ways and they strive to support their student’s needs.
Ascension School offers both full and half-day programs for our preschool children. The preschooler’s day focuses on socialization, reading readiness and literacy skills, small motor and large motor development and learning independence. Ascension School also has an Extended Day Program which offers before school and after school care for our preschool to grade 8 students.
Looking for a Local Preschool? Start Here
P
reschool is very beneficial to young children. Children who attend a high-quality preschool program are prepared for kindergarten not only academically, but social-emotionally, too. They learn how to play with others, share, and become accustomed to school routines that make the adjustment to kindergarten easier so that little ones can focus on the work of learning and growing.
The Collaboration for Early Childhood’s online Early Childhood Resource Directory is great place to start learning about local preschools. You can search for local programs by age and a variety of other criteria. Don’t forget the map at the bottom of the page to view a visual layout of where programs are located in relation to you to make pick-up and drop-off trips easy.
Oak Park and River Forest provide free, high-quality preschool to children whose families meet eligibility criteria such as veteran status, income level, disabilities or developmental delays. Prescreening for publicly funded preschool that begins this fall opens on February 1 and is ongoing. To learn more about publicly funded preschool, visit our website at www. collab4kids.org. The Collaboration supports children 0-5 and the people who care for them. We are here to get you connected to information, the parenting community, and programs to support your child’s healthy development and growth. Start strong. Start with us!
January 26, 2022 21
22
E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E
January 26, 2022
Grace Lutheran School offers a challenging curriculum in a nurturing environment
Grace Lutheran School 7300 Division Street ▪︎ River Forest ▪︎ 708-366-6900
Faith ▪︎ Academics ▪︎ Character Early Childhood, age 3 to 5
▪︎ All-day kindergarten ▪︎ Half-day and full-day programs for
3- and 4-year olds ▪︎ We learn about God’s love!
Elementary, Grades 1–8
▪︎ Caring, experienced teachers ▪︎ Challenging curriculum ▪︎ Support for individual learning needs ▪︎ Music, art, and sports teams ▪︎ Before and after-school care available
Learn more at GraceSchoolRF.org
Open House Sunday, January 30, 1–2:30 pm
Schedule a visit Call 708-366-6901
Special Advertising Section
G
race Lutheran School, at the corner of Division and Bonnie Brae in River Forest, serves children from age three through eighth grade. The curriculum combines rigorous academics with faith-based learning and worship. Our robust arts and athletics programs immerse students in music, sports, and visual arts. As children learn from many points of view they grow in compassion and creativity. We are committed to providing opportunities to discover and celebrate diversity and make our school a place where every child feels a sense of belonging. Grace offers a full-day kindergarten program and morning classes for threeand four-year-olds, with an optional afternoon program. In grades 1-8, a strong core curriculum challenges children academically, while the school’s supportive environment and high expectations help students achieve their best. A resource teacher and part-time reading specialist provide small-group and individual instruction for
children who need additional supports. Grace School students consistently perform above national averages on standardized tests, and Grace grads succeed at competitive area high schools in the city and suburbs. Sports teams are open to all interested participants in grades 5-8. The track and cross country teams include third and fourth graders. Extended care is available until 6 p.m. Before-school care opens at 7 a.m. Grace School is hosting an open house for prospective families on Sunday, January 30, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. It’s an opportunity for parents of elementary and preschool-age children to tour the building and talk with teachers, the principal, and parents of current Grace students. The school is currently accepting applications for the 2022-23 academic year. For more information come to the open house, call the school office (708366-6900), or visit www.GraceSchoolRF. org.
The St. Luke School Difference
S
t. Luke School has been providing families an excellent, Catholic education since 1921. We are proud of our 100 year legacy and look forward to educating children for generations to come.
Open House
Sunday, January 30, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
Now accepting applications for all programs, including half and full day preschool and full day kindergarten through 8th grade.
St. Luke School
519 Ashland Avenue, River Forest 708-366-8587 www.school-stlukeparish.org facebook.com/slsbearcats
At St. Luke, each child is encouraged to learn at their own pace led by teachers who are highly experienced and credentialed. We provide a rigorous curriculum that challenges our students to reach new heights in both their creative thinking and academic skills. These high expectations in the classroom lead to matriculation to top high schools where our graduates excel. Our graduates leave as young, independent leaders filled with academic confidence, spirituality, and a sense of service. Complementing our exceptional education, St. Luke offers: • Full and half day preschool, along with full day kindergarten through 8th grade • Teacher-led, differentiated curriculum in a nurturing environment
• Fine Arts program includes music, art, social-emotional learning, PE, and Spanish
• Meaningful use of integrated technology
• Small, caring community which promotes kindness
• No-cut athletics and extracurricular opportunities • Affordable extended day program before and after school
We focus on the values of faith, hope, love, and community. Teachers bring these values into class each day to give children daily opportunities to learn, share, and understand their faith and role in society. Service projects push our students to expand their world view and grow their appreciation of community life and service for others while also being challenged to think critically for real-life problem solving. Learning goes beyond the classroom as our students participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including speech club, art club, and a variety of musical programs. St. Luke School’s preparation of responsible, life-long learners, nurturing environment and exceptional education make it an unparalleled choice. We invite you to come and experience the St. Luke difference. Visit www.school-stlukeparish. org to learn more.
Special Advertising Section
E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E
District 90 Welcomes Kindergarten and New Students to the 2022-23 School Year
D
o you have or know of a child who will turn five years old on or before September 1, 2022? If the answer is yes, River Forest District 90 is excited to be registering children for Kindergarten who turn five years of age on or before that date. Students must reside in the Village of River Forest. The District now processes all Kindergarten and new student registrations electronically. Families registering students in District 90 for the first time are asked to contact Josephine Ribaudo, District Registrar, at (708)7718282 to begin the registration process. During your telephone call, she will explain the online registration process and provide you with a specific link for your student(s). Families who have a student already attending a District 90 school should also contact Ms. Ribaudo to begin the Kindergarten registration process. We encourage all families with children eligible for Kindergarten this
year to register as early as possible. Doing so enables District and Building Administrators to make critical decisions about staffing, the number of morning and afternoon sessions, and other matters. Starting the registration process also provides families with additional time to make all the necessary appointments that are required for students to attend school, such as medical, dental, and eye exams. For additional information about registering for Kindergarten in District 90, please visit the District’s website at Kindergarten Registration (www. district90.org/about/kindergartenregistration). Please share this information with any of your friends, neighbors, or relatives who may have a Kindergarten-aged child or may know of such a child in the community. School will start for students on Monday, August 22, 2022. Welcome to District 90 and Kindergarten!
Parents Against Child Sex Abuse Educates Parents with its Curriculum
W
ith the COVID 19 pandemic contributing to the rise of child exploitation, Parents Against Child Sex Abuse (PAXA) has witnessed the need for greater resources for child protection. Every day, PAXA hears from parents asking for guidance and how they can help against sexual abuse, making this a collective mission for all parents. Child sexual abuse itself is a wavering topic that is often left out of the conversation, producing misconceptions and false narratives. However, these misunderstandings can be eliminated through education and guidance. According to the Child Molestation & Prevention Institute, 95% of sexual abuse is preventable through education. For this reason, PAXA developed various programs that make child protection accessible and approachable. Our latest program, P.A.X.A. Pointers Curriculum, is rooted in targeting scenarios to keep children safe from
close-in predators. In over 90% of circumstances, a child is being sexually abused by someone they know (source: CDC), making it a priority to start sexual abuse prevention measures at home. “Education is the first step towards prevention and the P.A.X.A. Pointers Curriculum offers parents the power to be the first-line defense to protect our children.” PAXA Board Director and Oak Park resident, Joel Foster. The Curriculum’s Resource Guide includes topics from babysitters to online safety, offering parents insights about how to prevent child sexual abuse in present-day circumstances. The Curriculum can also be enhanced with virtual or in-person presentation options that can be of further help to individuals, parent groups, churches, and congregations. Parents can get started by purchasing a PAXA Pointers Curriculum Resource Guide ($20) via the website:www.paxa. online
January 26, 2022 23
River Forest Community Center U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E 24EJanuary 26, 2022 arly Childhood LearningE DC enter Re ivrerFo Forreesstt C Co m m uu nintyity CeC nteen r ter RRiiv o m m ver Forest Community Center Early Childhood earning enter &C Full-Day: yC rLneinagrn Cienng terCenter EEaarrlly ChhilidlhdohoodoL deaLHalf-Day Preschool & Pre-K
Half-Day & Full-Day:
Half-Day & Full-Day: Before and After Preschool && Pre-K Half-Day Full-Day: Preschool & Pre-K
School Care Preschool & Pre-K
Before and After Before and After School Care CareCamps School Summer
Before and After Summer Camps Summer Camps School Care Parent and Tot Programs Parent and Tot andPrograms Tot Programs Parent
Summer Camps Full-Day Infant—Preschool Full-Day Infant—Preschool Full-Day Infant—Preschool Programs at our OPRF HS Programs at our OPRF HS Parent Programs Programs atand our Tot OPRF HS location location location Full-Day Infant—Preschool 8020 Madison Street 8020Madison Street HS 8020 Street Programs our OPRF River Forest , Madison ILat60305 River , IL, 60305 RiverForest Forest IL 60305 (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info location (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 off your (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info initial registration fee! wj22 Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 off your
Bring initial in thisregistration ad to receive $10.00 off your fee! wj22 initial registration wj22 8020 Madisonfee! Street
River Forest , IL 60305 (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 off your initial registration fee! wj22
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. 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. Classes start as young as 15 months of age. The Early Childhood Programs include: • Munchkins • Playschool • Preschool (Half-Day & Full-Day) • Pre-Kindergarten (Half-Day & Full-Day)
• Before & After School Programs The River Forest Community Center is located at 8020 Madison Street in River Forest. For more information about the Early Childhood Programs, call 708-771-6159.
An exceptional Montessori education in Oak Park for over 30 years
W
est Suburban Montessori School has been providing an exceptional Montessori education in Oak Park for over 30 years. We value kindness, hard work, and the spark or enthusiasm required for real learning to take place. The children who attend WSMS are on a path toward independence. Our graduates are confident, strong minded, outside of the box thinkers. They are kind, respectful, and curious. West Suburban Montessori School embodies the educational principles established by Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952), an Italian physician who dedicated her career to the study of children. Following Dr. Montessori’s guidance, we focus on the whole child at WSMS, including the intellectual, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual development of the child. • Montessori environments have mixed ages: Primary (ages 3-6), Lower Elementary (ages 6-9), and Upper Elementary (ages 9-12)
• Children actively engage in their learning. The guide gives lessons to the student, and the student continues the work independently. • Hands on learning happens in Montessori environments. The Montessori materials are made to be touched and manipulated. • Montessori students have freedom of movement. Movement is vital for all children. • An AMI credentialed guide in each classroom is key. Montessori guides focus on redirection, honest conversation, and encouragement of their students. • Uninterrupted work cycles are paramount to Montessori classrooms. Students work at their own pace, learn to concentrate deeply, and develop interests in a full range of subject areas. West Suburban Montessori School is accredited by the Association Montessori International (AMI) to educate children from 3 to 12 years of age.