CICS Longwood Elementary -

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...

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...

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...

At CICS Longwood Elementary , 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 ne...

As summer is in full swing, we’re taking a moment to reflect on and celebrate the incredible 2024–25 school year at CICS Longwood Elementary —a year marked by creativity, studen...

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...

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...

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

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...

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...

On Wednesday, June 4, Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Loomis and Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Longwood Elementary opened their doors to the co...

On May 15, students from CICS Longwood and CICS Lloyd Bond had an unforgettable experience as they welcomed the National Basketball Athletic Equipment Managers Association (NBA...

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 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...

No two Distinctive Schools Assistant Principals are exactly alike, but they all share a deep commitment to ignite teacher leadership and champion student excellence. As we prepa...

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

International Social Emotional Learning Day on March 10th is a way to celebrate the way SEL is “Uplifting Hearts, Connecting Minds.” Studies show SEL reduces stress and promotes...

Every year, Distinctive Schools administers federally-required state assessments that help us gauge how our students are growing academically compared to their peers across the st...

Chicago, IL – February 18, 2025 – Distinctive Schools is excited to announce the appointment of Mary Beck as its new President, effective February 10, 2025. Beck, a longtime edu...

At Distinctive Schools, we believe strongly in the power of student voice – insight shared directly from our students is invaluable to us. Our Learner Advisory embodies this pr...