Avoca West Elementary School

My children passed out of Avoca and they had the best experience. The teachers are very approachable, not only do they have time for any feedback, concerns or suggestions; they will proactively get back to you on the actions they have taken to address your concerns or suggestions. The small class sizes (16 in many cases) give the teachers the opportunity to give your child the individual attention required. The orchestra program starts in first grade and the gifted program is extremely well run.
—Submitted by a parent

We have two children currently attending Avoca West Elementary.The school is culturally diverse,with small class sizes and outstanding technology resources.District #37 has been for many,many years one of the best in Chicago's North Shore area. Sadly,former principal,now current superintendent never really connected with the students,and some of the teachers he hired should be re-looked at.Overall,the good still outweighs the bad.
—Submitted by a parent

Avoca School District #37 is really outstanding in nearly every way. The leadership, administration, School Board, and teachers are all highly collaborative and competent. We have 3 children, the oldest in college now and two in middle school. They have all excelled and thrived in this school district. The environment is like a private school with teachers who really care about what and how your child learns. The education is so comprehensive with its academics, outstanding technology resources, fantastic musical and visual art programs, great physical education classes, extra-curricular programs including 4 time Illinois state Science Olympiad championships, sports teams, and more. Thanks Avoca and Marie Murphy School Board, administration, staff, and teachers for all that you give our children!!!!
—Submitted by a parent

This is an amazing school. Feels like a private school but runs on public funding. The teaching is outstanding, the technology is way ahead of the curve, and the atmosphere is warm and friendly. Our kids get lots of individualized attention for their needs from teaching assistants, and the principal treats every family like they are really special.
—Submitted by a parent

Avoca is an excellent school with outstanding leadership that is open to addressing and resolving issues. It also has the most diverse student population on the north shore, which I view as a positive. Class sizes are small and the staff is dedicated to our children. The environment is so positive that moving up to high school can be a culture shock as New Trier is teacher-centric rather than student-centric environment of Avoca.
—Submitted by a parent

School District 37 is a wonderful district. The staff is dedicated and encouraging. Working with students tirelessly before and after school, and even attending student sporting events. This staff clearly enjoys what they do. The class sizes are small. The students are a very close student body. They seem to look out for one another. This district does not tend to face the social problems of other area schools. They are accepting and compassionate toward their peers.The students tend to graduate as confident, prepared young adults. The district offers an impressive academic program and unbelievable technology resources. I wouldn't dream of sending my children anywhere else. It is a unique combination of four North Shore suburbs (Winnetka, Wilmette, Northfield and Glenview). If you don't know this district you should stop in and observe. It is truly exceptional!
—Submitted by a parent

Avpca West School District 37 is the best kept secret on the North Shore. It is like receieving a private school education. It offers amazingly small class sizes, school owned bus service, numerous academic and social clubs. They also have interscholastic sports and theater. Students attend many school trips. They have an amazing technology program that is years ahaead of the surrounding North Shore districts. Each student from fifth grade on is given their own Macintosh lap-top computer in which they are able to take home at night with them. They are able to complete assignements, take notes, and learn advanced computer programs. The teachers are always willing to go the extra mile working with students, as well as being at extracurricular events to cheer the kids on. The school is strict with enforcing their policies, making students responsible, respectful adults. This school has truly been a treasured gift.
—Submitted by a parent

I was on the staff at Avoca West School for 3 years and was very impressed with the quality of education that is offered the students. The staff is caring and very qualified.
—Submitted by a staff

I am a college professor. I grew up and graduated from the Chicago Public School system. The average class size is 18. It is a public school but it feels like a private school. My children's education far exceeds my dreams for them. My taxes are $7,000 a year. You can double them I wouldn't care. I have educated four children from Avoca then onto New Trier which has wonderful oppportunities. Avoca is small and nuturing and has an 8th grade graduating class of about 80. If you would ever visit the school it seems all the children are very happy and comfortable in this enviornment. Where in this world can you get a high quality private-like education in a public school? AVOCA
—Submitted by a parent

My son has been going to Avoca for a few years now. This past year has been difficult regarding communication between faculty and myself. The school is above average and the fundamental principals are in place to provide a quality education, however, I am concerned about the class size. I feel my boy needs smaller classes and Avoca can't provide that.
—Submitted by a parent