
August 28, 2025
 Distinctive Schools is thrilled to have been selected as a beneficiary from  Invest for Kids  , a vanguard philanthropic organization supporting Chicago's youth! This funding will...

July 23, 2025
 For many students, Kindergarten is their first step into school.  At   CICS Prairie   —a   Distinctive Schools    campus—it’s also the beginning of a joyful, personalized learning...

November 3, 2025
 The transition from 8th grade to high school is an exciting and critical step in a student’s educational journey. Distinctive Schools is committed to preparing our students, and e...

October 24, 2025
 Curiosity, Leadership & Big Dreams: 5 Questions CICS Prairie Students Asked Arne Duncan    On Wednesday, October 22,   CICS Prairie   middle schoolers were treated to a unique, on...

October 15, 2025
  This blog is reposted with permission by NGLC.   Find the original publication here   .    Noemi Simons is the Bilingual Program Manager at Distinctive Schools. Noemi Simons has ...

October 7, 2025
  This is Part III in a three-part blog series exploring how Distinctive Schools is approaching artificial intelligence (AI) in education. From building custom tools to supporting ...

October 1, 2025
 October is  Principal Appreciation Month , and at Distinctive Schools, we deeply honor and recognize the incredible leaders who guide our campuses every day. This year, we are giv...

September 18, 2025
 Distinctive Schools has been accepted into the  League of Innovative Schools   (The League), a national network of school districts that connects and supports the nation’s most fo...

September 8, 2025
 As part of both our Personalized Learning Model and our Community Hub work, Distinctive Schools is deeply committed to providing all learners with what they need, when they need i...

August 8, 2025
 As we step into a brand-new school year, we’re filled with excitement, hope, and deep gratitude for the journey ahead. This year, we’re anchored by  belonging ,  consistency , and...

July 18, 2025
 At  CICS Prairie  , we believe that learning extends far beyond textbooks and classroom walls. From before the first bell to long after the last bell rings, a whole new world of d...

July 11, 2025
 As summer is in full swing, we’re taking a moment to reflect on and celebrate the incredible 2024–25 school year at  CICS Prairie  —a year full of academic growth, artistic expres...

July 8, 2025
 We’re excited to share our  Anytime, Anywhere Learning Resources  packed with summer activities, local events, and community opportunities happening all across the city.   You can...

July 1, 2025
 At Distinctive Schools, we believe that summer break is a vital opportunity for our community of students, families, and staff to rejuvenate and embrace the joys of the season. Wh...

June 16, 2025
 Distinctive Schools is proud of our collaborative, innovative, and welcoming educational experience, where every student truly belongs. Distinctive students become confident advoc...

June 13, 2025
  Distinctive Schools  is buzzing with excitement, pride, and a touch of bittersweet farewells as we celebrate our incredible "Step Up" ceremonies across our campuses! This special...

June 10, 2025
  This is Part II in a three-part blog series exploring how Distinctive Schools is approaching artificial intelligence (AI) in education. From building custom tools to supporting s...

June 2, 2025
 At Distinctive Schools, we believe true education extends beyond traditional boundaries, encouraging students to explore their passions. Our music classrooms are excellent example...

May 15, 2025
 May is Mental Health Awareness month. At Distinctive Schools, we believe in fostering a culture where open, compassionate conversations about mental health are encouraged and are ...

April 23, 2025
 April is Stress Awareness Month—a reminder to prioritize mental well-being. With academic and daily demands, Distinctive Schools students and families should take intentional mome...
