In the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, Chicago City Day School offers more than just an academic education — it nurtures curiosity, compassion and confidence in every student.
As an independent, private elementary school, City Day has carved out an identity rooted in academic rigor, strong relationships and a vibrant, inclusive community, says Chris Dow, Head of School.
“If you send your children to City Day, they will be seen, valued, challenged and supported,” he says. “They are exposed to a breadth of subject matter across our liberal arts curriculum, giving them the opportunity to explore, expand and engage their developing minds. Their time here prepares them for success in high school and well beyond.”
The school is noted for its balance of intellectual challenge and social-emotional development, he adds. City Day’s core curriculum includes reading, math, science, language arts and social studies, with a strong emphasis on critical and creative thinking.
“Whether solving math problems or crafting a scene in theater class,” Dow says, “students are encouraged to stretch their thinking and take academic risks.”
Opportunities for experiential learning
City Day’s commitment to experiential learning is another defining trait. “Our students expand their learning outside the classroom in ways unique to any elementary school experience,” Dow says.
Students travel to the Bahamas to study coral reefs, complete immersive STEM exhibitions at Space Camp, and explore French and Spanish culture through international travel to Paris and Madrid.
These experiences extend the classroom far beyond Chicago, broadening students’ perspectives and deepening their understanding of the world.
The school also places a strong emphasis on public speaking. “It starts in junior kindergarten and continues all the way through the graduation ceremony, where each graduate delivers a speech,” says Dow.
This early exposure to self-expression and performance lays the foundation for confidence and leadership.
A place where every child is known
A defining feature of City Day is the intentional design of its small community. The two-acre campus, nestled in a vibrant urban neighborhood, offers a calm and welcoming atmosphere. This setting supports strong relationships between students and teachers, Dow notes, helping each child feel seen and supported.
“Our teachers are experienced and equipped to work with each individual student, engaging all our learners with varying strengths and interests,” he says. “We use a non-competitive, narrative-based assessment process that gives parents a true snapshot of how their children are growing over time.”
City Day’s “culture of kindness” is reflected in daily life. Multi-grade lunch tables help students build friendships across age groups and foster a broader sense of connection.
Confidence, character and joy beyond the classroom
In both academics and athletics, students at City Day learn to collaborate, provide feedback, and resolve conflicts respectfully.
“Our small classes result in an uncommonly tight-knit student body,” Dow says. “When conflict does arise, our teachers respond quickly and give students agency to resolve the issue themselves, with appropriate guidance and support.”
Outside the classroom, City Day offers an array of extracurriculars. From interscholastic sports like volleyball, soccer and basketball to after-school programs in ice skating, tap dance, French baking and more, students have many opportunities to explore new interests and talents.
Families looking for a school where their child will be known, supported and encouraged to grow — where curiosity is nurtured and kindness is part of daily life — often find a strong fit at Chicago City Day School. Graduates go on to a wide range of high schools in Chicago and beyond, Dow adds, prepared to take on new challenges with confidence and empathy.
This content is sponsored by Chicago City Day School. To learn more, visit the Chicago City Day School website — and discover more Chicago schools in the Best Schools Guide.
