Senn High School

As a current Senior at this school, this school hasn't changed as much. The new Principal is way more motivation than the old one but she's like any average cps principal. Senn's good teachers is roughly 10% (most AP teachers and young teacher make up about 30%). This school needs more teachers with a very good college degree, more motivation, and interesting classes like the Selective enrollment schools have. As a soon-to-be AVID Alumni, I recommend not joining Avid because they're not very helpful and the binder checks don't apply to college. If you want to join the NHS, don't because all we did was sat on our butts and went over the rules.
—Submitted by a student

I am a freshmen in Senn's MYP IB program. I have to say, although there are fights and such, Senn is a great place to learn. I think that if you want to attend Senn, to definitely try the IB program. It has many pluses and is a bonus for colleges! Senn's IB program is like any other IB program and the teachers make it much more easier to adapt to the new way of learning. Senn is getting better. There have been mulit-milllion revenues and grants, which Senn is using for a much better future. The IB program has expanded, along with the Avid program. These programs are a must if one wants to get into a great college. There is work, and you must be on target, but the teachers help facilitate that, and students also become more skillful and open minded. Mrs. Lofton, our new principal is outstanding and is doing as much as possible to raise Senn higher. :D
—Submitted by a student

Great things are in store for Senn. With the multi-million dollar improvements made to Senn Hall, a commitment from CPS to also have a arts/music/drama program is assuring a solid arts foundation for our students. The IB program is expanding; the AVID program has helped many students achieve their dream of going to college. This High School is a rising star in large part due to the support of the Alderman, Mary Anne Smith.
—Submitted by a teacher

I love Senn because we have students from all over the world. Many of our students are immigrants or refugees who have left war torn cities to find a better life. We celebrate the diversity of our students. Senn has a long tradition of serving new immigrants. We are trying to create a mentoring program that would engage Senn Alumni in supporting the academic success of our students.
—Submitted by a parent

im a freshie at senn in the pre-ib program and i for one love it.the school is not the best academically but it sure is fun and as long as you know the right people you wont have any problems.the teachers are cool,there is alot of independence as if u were an adult,and the students are crazy which make the school fun to be in.in addition,the work is easy!
—Submitted by a student

It is true, for the most part I've been in this school and it hasn't been the most amazing thing as other's say. in my personal experience this school has brought me various struggles and the lack of motivation, and the lowering of self esteem just makes it hard. This school does need a lot of improvement, especially on grades at time's I'd rather wish to be home school.
—Submitted by a student

I continue to be alarmed at the poor scores at Senn - and agree with tje Aldermman that a different approach is needed - focused schools. The current administration seems unable to turn these scores around. the students do not seem to be focused on academics in this large school environment. A more focused approach aimed at generating interest is needed. These students have little educaiton results that will give them the job skills they need to 'pay their way' in life. We are producing a poor student product at this school. No wonder so many of our students attend private schools.

I am a 2003 graduate of Nicholas Senn High School. I can honestly say that my experience at Senn was excellent. I have recently graduated from the University of Illinois-Champaign, so don't think that sending your child here will decrease their chance of attending a Four Year Institution. I know there have been numerous improvements since I was a student there and I know there will be many more to come. This is definitely a school where your child will have a wonderful cultural, social, and educational experience. Go Bulldogs!!!!!

i am a former student of senn hs & must add that ms rita jung is one of the most outstanding human beings on the planet. she cares! while she is there senn is 'the school' to attend.
—Submitted by a student

Senn is unexplainable!I love it.I am a student not a parent.Great teachers who help you every step of the way! Cheery people everywhere. Motivation posters around the school which helps! and in every school no matter what you will find violence. Senn of course has fights but we have securities that are there always on the lookout and in class you can concentrate.Lots and lots of activites throughout the school year which are very fun and educational. I'm not saying senn is the best school in chicago because it's not and there is better, but senn high school is a school where your child will be comfortable and happy and will get all the help he or she needs to move on for college.
—Submitted by Cristal G, a student

I am a student at senn and its actually very nice and gets u prepared for college there isn't a lot of bullying and stuff like that going on its actually calmed down a lot over the years and I find it very fun I know everybody from my peers all the way up to seniors. I like senn very much
—Submitted by a student

I am not a parent but I'm sure my mother would agree with me. Senn has a numerous amount of amazing, inspiring, and dedicated teachers and staff.Unfortunately though, as in every aspect of life, there are just as many teachers that are useless and out of touch.I, as graduate still view Senn in a bad light,though. I do not blame this on the teachers though. I believe most of the blame is to be put on the parents because the problem at Senn is not the teachers but the students. I mean teachers are not miracle workers, they are instructors and supporters. I must add though that the security is detestable.
—Submitted by a former student

I personally had a horrible experience at this school. A lot of bullying going on.
—Submitted by a former student

I am a freshman here at Senn and I love this school very much. I am having so much fun!
—Submitted by Beverly Mitofsky, a student