Brickton Montessori School
General Information
Overview
Brickton Montessori School, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a distinguished private educational institution that follows the Montessori philosophy of individualized learning and holistic development. Founded on the belief that every child learns differently, Brickton Montessori offers an inclusive, nurturing, and academically rich environment for children from preschool through middle school. The school’s curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, critical thinking, and respect for oneself and others. Students engage in multi-age classrooms that encourage peer mentorship and collaboration, cultivating a love of learning from an early age.
Brickton Montessori School’s dedicated faculty and staff guide students through a balanced mix of academics, arts, and social development, ensuring that each learner thrives both intellectually and emotionally. Beyond academics, the school focuses on fostering environmental awareness, community engagement, and cultural understanding—values that prepare students to become compassionate and responsible global citizens. With small class sizes, personalized attention, and an engaging community atmosphere, Brickton Montessori continues to set the standard for authentic Montessori education in the Chicago area.
Contact Information
Address: 8622 W. Catalpa Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656
Phone Number: (773) 714-0646
Email Address: info@brickton.org
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1986 |
| Motto | “Educating the Whole Child for Life” |
| Type | Private Montessori School |
| Grades | Preschool – 8th Grade |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 10:1 |
| School Colors | Green and Blue |
| Accreditation | American Montessori Society (AMS) |
| Campus Size | Urban setting, 2-acre campus |
Brickton Montessori School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Montessori Schools in Illinois | Top 10 |
| Montessori Schools in the U.S. | Top 100 |
| Private Schools in Chicago | Top 50 |
Brickton Montessori School Academics
Brickton Montessori School Faculties / Departments
- Early Childhood Education
- Elementary Education
- Middle School Program
- Arts and Music Department
- Science and Environmental Studies
- Physical Education
- Spanish Language Department
- Technology and Innovation Program
Brickton Montessori School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Montessori Preschool Program (Ages 3–6)
- Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3)
- Upper Elementary (Grades 4–6)
- Middle School Program (Grades 7–8)
- Art and Creative Expression
- Music and Performance Studies
- STEM Integration Projects
- Environmental Education
- Foreign Language (Spanish)
- Practical Life and Cultural Studies
Online Learning
Brickton Montessori School embraces the modern educational landscape by offering a limited but well-structured online learning program for students who require flexibility. These virtual learning options were initially developed during remote education transitions and have since evolved into a blended format that supports continuity of learning outside the classroom. The online curriculum mirrors Montessori principles by encouraging self-directed study, exploration, and reflective engagement. While in-person interaction remains the cornerstone of the Montessori experience, Brickton’s online learning initiatives ensure that students can continue academic progress through digital platforms, live teacher guidance, and interactive learning materials.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT (Middle School Graduates) | 1200 |
| ACT (Middle School Graduates) | 25 |
| MAP Growth Assessment | 75th Percentile Average |
| Montessori Benchmark Evaluation | Exceeds National Average |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Brickton Montessori School consistently maintains a student retention rate of over 95%, reflecting the strong satisfaction and trust among families. The graduation rate for middle school students is 100%, with many graduates proceeding to top-tier private high schools and competitive public magnet programs. The school’s nurturing atmosphere and commitment to individual growth contribute to exceptional academic persistence and emotional well-being, ensuring that every student is well-prepared for future educational challenges.
Brickton Montessori School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Most applicants to Brickton Montessori’s upper grades demonstrate a GPA range of 3.2 – 4.0. For students transitioning from other schools, standardized test scores such as the SAT (1100–1300) or ACT (23–28) are considered for placement purposes only, not as strict admission criteria.
Brickton Montessori School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Level | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Early Childhood | 85% |
| Elementary | 70% |
| Middle School | 65% |
Brickton Montessori School Application Requirements
Admission to Brickton Montessori School is based on a comprehensive understanding of each child’s learning style, potential, and family alignment with the Montessori philosophy. Applicants are required to submit an application form, recent school records, teacher recommendations, and a personal statement from parents outlining their interest in Montessori education. An in-person or virtual observation and interview are also part of the process to ensure the child’s readiness for the Montessori environment. Younger applicants participate in a classroom visit to observe interaction and learning engagement. The admissions team considers both academic and emotional preparedness in final decisions.
Application Process
- Submit an online or paper application form.
- Provide previous academic records and teacher recommendations.
- Schedule a campus tour or virtual meeting.
- Attend a parent-student interview.
- Complete the classroom observation (for applicable age groups).
- Await decision and enrollment offer.
Brickton Montessori School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Application Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Early Admission | December 15 |
| Regular Admission | February 1 |
| Rolling Admission (if space available) | Ongoing |
| Enrollment Deposit Due | March 15 |
Essay Prompt
“Describe how your child embodies curiosity, independence, and a love of learning—values that align with Brickton Montessori’s mission.”
Brickton Montessori School Scholarships
Brickton Montessori School provides limited need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships to support families committed to the Montessori philosophy. Financial aid packages are assessed confidentially based on family income and need documentation. In addition, the school periodically awards scholarships recognizing leadership, community involvement, and academic excellence, ensuring that talented students can access a Brickton education regardless of financial constraints.
Brickton Montessori School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program Level | Annual Tuition (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Preschool (Half Day) | $9,000 |
| Preschool (Full Day) | $13,000 |
| Elementary | $16,500 |
| Middle School | $18,000 |
| Registration Fee | $500 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Brickton Montessori School has a balanced and inclusive student body that reflects the diverse cultural fabric of Chicago. The gender ratio stands at approximately 52% female and 48% male, while the age range spans from 3 to 14 years. The school community includes students from various ethnic backgrounds—45% White, 25% Hispanic, 15% African American, 10% Asian, and 5% multiracial. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and cultural celebrations, creating an atmosphere of acceptance, respect, and global awareness.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Brickton Montessori School is deeply committed to inclusivity and accessibility. The institution welcomes students from low-income backgrounds through its financial aid and scholarship initiatives. It also offers personalized support plans for students with learning differences or disabilities, ensuring that each child has the tools and environment needed to succeed. The school provides access to resource specialists, adaptive learning tools, and individualized instruction aligned with Montessori principles.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 180 |
| International Students | 8% |
| Average Class Size | 18 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 10:1 |
| Alumni Network | 1,200+ Graduates |
University Diversity
Diversity is a cornerstone of Brickton Montessori School’s mission. The institution values multiculturalism as an integral part of learning, encouraging students to appreciate global traditions, perspectives, and histories. Through celebrations such as International Day and multicultural festivals, students gain firsthand exposure to cultural diversity. Teachers integrate global studies into daily lessons, connecting classroom topics to worldwide issues and promoting empathy and understanding. The result is a community where every student feels valued and empowered to express their identity freely while learning to respect and celebrate differences.
Average Earnings
While Brickton Montessori is not a university, its graduates often transition to top-performing high schools and later to prestigious universities. Surveys of alumni parents indicate that Brickton graduates tend to excel academically and professionally. Many go on to pursue careers in STEM, arts, business, and education, reflecting the school’s emphasis on creativity, independence, and leadership. Graduates’ families report above-average earnings compared to regional statistics, a testament to the long-term value of the school’s rigorous and holistic Montessori foundation.
Brickton Montessori School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Brickton Montessori School employs a team of highly qualified Montessori-certified educators who are passionate about nurturing the individual potential of every child. Each classroom is guided by a lead Montessori teacher and supported by trained assistants who ensure personalized instruction. The administrative and support staff work collaboratively to maintain a welcoming, safe, and intellectually stimulating environment. Faculty members regularly engage in professional development to stay aligned with current Montessori best practices.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty at Brickton Montessori includes specialists in early childhood education, literacy development, science, music, and art. Many have earned advanced degrees and Montessori certifications from accredited institutions such as the American Montessori Society (AMS). Their achievements include published research on child development, community leadership in education, and recognition for innovative classroom projects. The faculty’s expertise fosters a rich and dynamic learning atmosphere where creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking are celebrated daily.
Brickton Montessori School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Brickton Montessori School’s urban campus in Chicago offers a warm, community-oriented environment designed to inspire exploration and learning. While the school does not provide residential housing, its facilities include bright classrooms, outdoor play areas, art and music studios, and a science garden where students engage with nature. The school also offers after-school enrichment programs, clubs, and seasonal camps that extend learning beyond the classroom. Each space reflects Montessori principles of independence and order, with materials arranged for easy access and student autonomy.
Transportation
The school is conveniently accessible via major Chicago public transit routes, including the CTA Blue Line and multiple bus connections. Families benefit from a safe and efficient drop-off and pick-up system. Brickton Montessori also offers parking facilities for staff and visitors, and many students commute through carpool programs organized by parents. The urban setting allows older students to learn responsibility and independence in navigating city transportation safely under parental guidance.