Pritzker Elementary School

Homework:From 7th-8th, homework gets noticeably more common, my 7th-grade teachers handled it fairly well, with the exception of some ridiculous policies. Eighth grade had the best homework load. Each class gave well thought out assignments, where there was more than enough time to complete it in class, but always enough to think about it afterwards.Teachers:The teachers at Pritzker are not like in any other school. For middle school, you're offered a unique assortment of educators, who all offered curriculums beyond the Common Core; beyond a letter grade. Each class was an experience- not a lecture. Mr. Weissbuch took the class on trips across all of Chicago and gave life lessons and stories. Mrs. Minter gave a new perspective to literature I've never before seen, primarily showing black stories, while preparing me for large discussions, literary analysis, essay-writing, and critical thinking. Her eighth-grade class easily outclasses my current 9th grade Honors "Survey Lit" class. Mr. Bester and Acevedo both made largely boring classes engaging and interesting, Bester offering common-sense solutions for math, and Acevedo offering unique ways to look at science.Leadership:The staff at this school know how to make every grade level feel at home, and are the most understanding people out there, huge props to them. The administration is a bit lacking, focusing far too much on discipline, rather than school improvement.Character:While Pritzker students have "Respectful, Responsible, and Safe" drilled into their heads, not much is actually learned from this. Almost all of the character comes from the amazing staff and educators.Learning Differences:Being someone who has experienced every elective option at Pritzker (Art, Dance, Band, and Drama), I can tell you that students who aren't wanted at certain electives are handpicked out of them into "shell" electives, such as drama, that essentially act as free time. This not only kills the elective but ruins student potential. Bullying:There's bullying, sure, but enough to make someone toughen up without any actual damage. Admins deal well with any serious bullies.Other:The school is in Wicker Park, a great location.Easy commute via Blu line & 56Lots of elective choicesGreat opportunities for sports and co-curric.Amazing counselorLots of field trips & hands-on work.More of a community feel than a school feel.Kind lunch staffGreat campus- playground recently underwent $2mil renovation.

My biggest regret. I think it is my duty to inform parent to stay away from the options "gifted" program at Pritzker. They teach to the test, and put kids in front of computers to practice skills that will guarantee a high test score for the school. They are use for one purpose - high test scores. Horrible teachers and curriculum. Our children deserve better.

We are new to the school this year and so far we've had a very positive experience. My son's class is especially tight-knit, but they've been very welcoming.

Will probably be sending more of my family's kids to this school in years to come. Been sending my family's kids there for over 20yrs and have seen a lot of changes, all very positive. Being able to walk to school and not be bussed is a big plus. For an urban school, has a very open, safe and positive campus and culture. Our kids have friends nearby. Gifted program is strong.