CICS Avalon South Shore
General Information
About (Overview)
CICS Avalon South Shore is a public charter high school located in Chicago, Illinois, and is part of the Chicago International Charter School (CICS) network. Established to provide students with a rigorous college-preparatory education, CICS Avalon South Shore focuses on both academic excellence and the development of leadership, critical thinking, and civic engagement skills. The school serves students from diverse backgrounds, offering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages personal growth, responsibility, and community involvement.
Its mission emphasizes preparing students not only for college success but also for life beyond the classroom, instilling values of perseverance, integrity, and collaboration. The school combines traditional classroom instruction with project-based learning, extracurricular opportunities, and real-world experiences to cultivate well-rounded, confident, and socially responsible individuals.
Contact Information
- Address: 10744 S. Ewing Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617
- Phone Number: 773-535-0925
- Email Address: info@cicsavalon.org
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2002 |
| School Type | Public Charter High School |
| Grades Offered | 9–12 |
| Enrollment | Approximately 600 students |
| Faculty | Approximately 45 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 13:1 |
| School Colors | Blue and White |
| Accreditation | Illinois State Board of Education |
CICS Avalon South Shore Rankings
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| National | Not Applicable |
| State (IL) | Not Applicable |
CICS Avalon South Shore Academics
CICS Avalon South Shore Faculties / Departments
CICS Avalon South Shore organizes its academic programs through a series of departments that provide a broad and comprehensive education. Departments include English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Arts, and Technology. Each department focuses on delivering standards-aligned curricula while incorporating critical thinking, problem-solving, and project-based learning strategies.
CICS Avalon South Shore Courses and Programs / Majors
The school offers a robust selection of courses designed to prepare students for college and career readiness. Core courses include Algebra, Geometry, Biology, Chemistry, World History, U.S. History, English Literature, and Composition. Elective courses include Visual Arts, Music, Computer Science, Physical Education, and Leadership Development programs. Advanced Placement (AP) courses and college preparatory programs are offered to students who demonstrate academic readiness and ambition. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of real-world skills, collaborative learning, and technology-enhanced instruction.
Online Learning
CICS Avalon South Shore provides online learning resources to complement in-person instruction. Students can access digital platforms for assignments, supplementary lessons, and collaborative projects. Online resources support blended learning approaches, provide flexible study options, and enable continuous learning outside the traditional classroom setting.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 950–1050 |
| ACT | 18–22 |
| AP | Varies by course |
Retention and Graduation Rates
CICS Avalon South Shore maintains strong retention and graduation rates, with most students progressing successfully through high school and completing their diplomas. Graduation initiatives include personalized academic support, mentorship programs, and college readiness workshops to ensure students meet academic and personal milestones.
CICS Avalon South Shore Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission is based primarily on application submission, interviews, and alignment with the school’s mission. While GPA and standardized test scores are considered for certain programs, the school evaluates applicants holistically, considering factors such as commitment, potential, and personal motivation.
CICS Avalon South Shore Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall | Not publicly disclosed |
CICS Avalon South Shore Application Requirements
Applicants to CICS Avalon South Shore are required to submit a completed application form, academic records or transcripts, teacher recommendations, and participate in an interview process. The school evaluates students based on readiness for college-preparatory courses, alignment with the school’s values, and commitment to personal growth.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the application form.
- Provide academic records and teacher recommendations.
- Attend an interview with school staff.
- Receive an admission decision.
- Confirm enrollment and complete registration requirements.
CICS Avalon South Shore Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 1 |
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Notification of Admission | February 15 |
| Enrollment Confirmation | March 1 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to write a short personal statement reflecting their academic goals, personal values, and motivation to join CICS Avalon South Shore. Essays are evaluated for clarity, authenticity, and alignment with the school’s mission.
CICS Avalon South Shore Scholarships
As a public charter school, CICS Avalon South Shore does not charge tuition for eligible students. The school participates in programs that provide additional academic support, enrichment, and extracurricular opportunities for students with financial needs.
CICS Avalon South Shore Tuition and Fees
| Grade Level | Tuition |
|---|---|
| 9–12 | Free (public charter) |
CICS Avalon South Shore Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student body at CICS Avalon South Shore reflects Chicago’s diverse communities. Demographics include African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and Caucasian students, along with a range of socioeconomic backgrounds. The school promotes an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and respected.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
CICS Avalon South Shore provides specialized support services for low-income students and students with disabilities. These services include academic tutoring, counseling, individualized education programs (IEPs), and access to enrichment programs to ensure equitable educational opportunities.
Student Body
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 600 |
| International Students | Minimal or Not Applicable |
University Diversity
CICS Avalon South Shore embraces diversity as a core component of its educational philosophy. The school encourages students to learn from one another’s cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Through classroom discussions, collaborative projects, and extracurricular activities, students develop a global awareness, empathy, and respect for differences. School programs highlight equity, inclusion, and community engagement, preparing students to thrive in diverse environments both academically and socially.
Average Earnings
While the school serves high school students and does not track alumni earnings, its college preparatory curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for higher education and career success. The school emphasizes STEM education, leadership development, and college readiness to maximize future opportunities for graduates.
CICS Avalon South Shore Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The school employs approximately 45 faculty members who are trained in college-preparatory instruction and student-centered educational practices. Faculty members support students through personalized instruction, mentoring, and engagement in both academic and extracurricular activities.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members are experienced educators with expertise in core academic subjects, STEM, arts, and social-emotional learning. Many hold advanced degrees and participate in ongoing professional development to enhance instructional quality and student outcomes.
CICS Avalon South Shore Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
CICS Avalon South Shore is located in a modern urban campus in Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood. While the school does not provide residential housing, it offers students access to safe and supportive learning spaces, recreational areas, and facilities that encourage collaboration and engagement. Extracurricular programs include sports, arts, academic clubs, and leadership development.
Transportation
The school is accessible by public transportation, including bus and train lines servicing the South Shore area. Students typically commute from surrounding neighborhoods, and the school provides guidance and support to ensure safe and timely access to campus. On-campus mobility is structured to allow safe movement between classrooms, recreational spaces, and administrative areas.