Do you know that Northside College Preparatory High School was the first new Chicago Public School built in 20 years? Founded in 1999, Northside College Prep quickly became an academic powerhouse. This selective enrollment high school is located in the North Park neighborhood. It is a public four-year school.
Northside College Preparatory High School teaches only at the Honors and AP levels. Physical education is the only exception. The school has earned a reputation for academic excellence. Northside has consistently been ranked as the number one high school in Illinois. U.S. News & World Report affirms this fact.
In 2014, Newsweek ranked Northside College Prep as the third best high school in the nation. The school’s establishment was part of former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley’s plan. His plan aimed to reinvent the city’s public school system. However, the school’s construction generated controversy. Critics argued the $52.5 million budget could have better served other schools.
Admission to Northside Prep follows a selective enrollment application system. Grades from 7th grade are considered. Standardized test scores play a role. Entrance exam scores matter. Socio-economic status is also a factor.
Northside College Prep is known for its students’ success in college admissions. Over 99% of the graduating class matriculates to college. A large amount of financial aid is earned by the student body. In 2018, U.S. News & World Report rated Northside second in Illinois and 82nd in the nation.
With the exception of physical education, all courses at Northside are Honors or AP. Northside offers 24 Advanced Placement classes. The math program is unique. It uses the Interactive Mathematics Program IMP instead of a traditional math track. IMP emphasizes writing. Students create portfolios and projects instead of simply solving equations.
Northside also offers special education services. The school’s Office of Specialized Services arranges appropriate accommodations. The school successfully lobbied to eliminate class rankings because of its competitive environment. Former principal Dr. James Lalley led this effort.
Classes at Northside College Preparatory High School run on a block schedule. Classes meet twice a week. Each block is 100 minutes long. Wednesdays are reserved for a two-hour non-credit class called Colloquium. Students choose from a wide range of colloquia. Options include motorcycle repair, computers, robotics, and sewing. Seniors get first pick. Freshmen pick last.
Before and after colloquium, Northside has Flex Blocks. Students can pick classes each week to meet their needs. For example, a student needing help with math can choose a math tutoring class.
In the summer of 2010, Northside installed a solar thermal system. The 105 panels heat the school’s pool. They can also provide hot water to the entire school. Science teacher Mr. Mike Coy and valedictorian Alexandra Rojek headed this project.
Behind the school is the Joy Garden. This garden is a continuation of Northside’s sustainability efforts. The Joy Garden is 10,000 square feet. It was built by students with the help of Urban Habitat Chicago. The garden features a storm water management system and permeable concrete. It provides a stimulating environment for special needs students.
Northside competes in the Chicago Public League. It is a member of the Illinois High School Association. The school offers a wide range of sports. These include cross country, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis, and volleyball.
Notable alumni include musician Miss Alex White, author Eve Ewing, and film writer Minhal Baig. Northside College Prep has come a long way. From its founding to its many achievements, it continues to be a leader in education. This school fosters excellence and innovation.