Courtenay Elementary Language Arts Center

We chose Courtenay because of the small class sizes and high test scores, and we have not been disappointed. The teachers and administration are focused on ensuring that each child reaches their full potential. My kindergartener has gym class, music, and recess, and participates in monthly Literacy assemblies where students practice public speaking skills. Character development is emphasized as well, and there is an atmosphere of support and respect. A playground is being built this summer, technology is expanding, and Common Core curriculum standards are being adopted a year early to ensure that students are prepared in advance of the CPS wide shift. We are so pleased we chose to send our daughter to Courtenay!
--Submitted by a parent

My Grandchildren started here this year. My Grandaughter is in sixth grade. I was so worried about her changing schools at this grade level, but it was an easy transition for her. There is a familiarity between the kids/staff that is very trusting and reassuring, especially to an overprotective Grandma. She is very happy here and that is important to me. My Grandson started pre school as well. I am hoping he will be able to continue here for the remainder of his elementary education. There are many activities that students can be involved in and I like that.I hope that our Alderman will bring some support to this school. I would love to see it in full bloom.

I attended this school for ten years all the way up to eighth grade. This school has the best staff I've ever met. The teachers really care about the students and make sure that they are performing at their full potential. When I first enrolled at this school I did not know one word of English, however the teachers all worked with me and before long I was exceeding in school with straight A's, top percentile scores on standardized tests, and attending science fair competitions for the area and city of Chicago. I now go to Northside prep, the top school in Illinois and the 24th best school in the nation. While all of my classmates are complaining about homework and how low their grades are I am accustomed to the work load and have learned through elementary school how to juggle sports, academics, as well as efficient time management skills. I am one of the only freshmen at my school who did not have trouble adapting to the expectations of high school life. It is thanks to all of the staff at Courtenay, that I continue to exceed in school. If you are looking for a small school where your child's education can be given the attention it needs don't think twice about Courtenay.

I transferred my daughter to Courtenay because of the school's excellent test results and its small size. I am very happy about this transfer. The small class size allows my daughter to learn a lot more in school. The teachers are excellent and passionate about their work. The math teacher offers extra help and teaches the students strategy and approach. I am very impressed by the Principal and the Assistant Principal. They greet every single child by name and show lots of affection and respect for the children. This is one big family and I am proud that my daughter is part of the Courtenay community. Great School!!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter started 1st grade this year and had come from a private school - I was worried that she'd get bored because she could read and write so well, but Courtenay has an "enriched" class for students who are advanced in reading and math. It is so wonderful to see her learning at her level, while the teacher is still able to focus on the students at the first grade level as well. All of the staff are friendly and focused on the school. The principal is wonderful and has addressed any concerns I've had immediately and with urgency. She also acts on the needs of the school and kids. They will be getting a playground next year, they offer PE twice or three times a week, technology. I am looking forward to see what's in addition next year with the longer school day. I am so happy we were able to attend this school. We enjoy the small tight-knit community that has the feel of a private school.
--Submitted by a parent

The people and teachers of this school are very dedicated and friendly. My son is behind in some subjects but they have teachers working with not only him but other students as well.
--Submitted by a parent

I have two childeren at Courtenay and having had them at two other schools in the CPS system (one of which was a magnet), I can tell you they have never gotten close to the quality instruction they receive at Courtenay. The focus is on core; math, reading, science and the scool is small enough for the teachers to give all children the time and attention they need to suceed. These standard are set by Dr. Percel (principal) and never have I seen a principal so involved in the daily activities and achievements of the children directly. I couldn't be happier with our with our choice, and hope in the future they get the funding and attention they deserve.
--Submitted by a parent

We are new to Courtenay this year and I am very happy that we made the switch. Although Courtenay is small in size and population, it is very big with its goals. They are constantly working to communicate with the families to improve the learning environment both at school and at home. My children receive so much more attention and better instruction than our last school that I feel that I couldn't have made a better choice.
--Submitted by a parent

I was very pleased to see my friends children get into this school. I heard it was better than the other local schools. I have gone twice to events with her and her family. I do not see the warmth from the teachers and staff that everyone here praises. I found one teacher to be particulary cold to a pre school 4 year old so much that it bothered me. I feel that this is a school where if your child is an acheiver they will be happy, but a normal child who is struggling will not be happy in this school. This is just my outside observation. But a school should be about the children and not just some of them.

One of THE BEST schools in chicago and they deserve much more recognition for all that they do for the children. I have four kids who at some point attended Courtenay and everyone that we've encountered has been truly a beautiful person. You can see the passion that everyone working at this school has for ALL the kids. From the teachers to the ladies that greet you and are watching our children you can see that they care and want the best for our children which as a parent is exactly what I want from my kids and am overjoyed to have found them. The one thing I wish were different would be that the school was bigger so that many more children would have the honor of attending it.
--Submitted by a parent