Courtenay Elementary Language Arts Center

Horrible, I now understand why they have low test scores and a problem with teenagers joining gangs and quitting school. The administration is completely incompetent and couldn't manage a McDonalds.

Preschool is a gem!!! Highly recommend! During our tour for kindergarten for the next fall we met with the head teacher (Miss Ellen) of the preschool and found out that Courtenay School has an amazing preschool program, and because of a grant the preschool was free regardless of income (this is for the 2016-2017 school year, make sure to ask about next year). With two preschoolers I thought this was too good to be true, and I assumed the hours of instruction would be 2-3 hours like some other local CPS preschools. However, the program is just like the elementary school but starts 15 minutes after the main school starts at 7:45a.m. and ends 15 mins later at 2:45p.m. so you avoid the rush with the older students. Courtenay also offers after school care based on an income sliding scale until 6p.m. After a lot of thought, we enrolled both of our children in the preschool program, and they are flourishing and learning so much! Our previous preschool experience was extremely positive, but I've been impressed by the fun subjects and creative approach to learning my 3.5 and 5 year old are experiencing. Each classroom has two teachers, offers breakfast, snack and lunch, weekly art, music and gym classes and monthly field trips. The preschool program also has monthly presentations where parents/families are invited to see what students have learned and created in their recent studies. Parents are also highly encouraged to volunteer in various ways on a monthly basis. Also, because Courtenay is considered a small, neighborhood school it's been wonderful to meet so many warm and diverse families that live in Uptown and surrounding area. There is a real sense of community and you get to know the other families very quickly. I highly recommend going on a tour of Courtenay if you're wondering about the school. I was so pleasantly surprised, and all the stereotypes and preconceived ideas I had about CPS were put to rest once I met with the head teacher Miss Ellen and saw the school for myself.

The staff, teachers and administration work overtime to make sure all students excel.

This is a great school, the teachers and administration care about students and their education. The school has PBIS and CHAMPs so teachers and adm also know how to take care of children and teach children social and emotional skills. The principal is a gem, she understands human psychology, pediatric development and is always working hard to improve our children's education!