Building Belonging: Inclusion and Neurodiversity at BISC

By Judith Scholes, Director of Inclusion at BISC South Loop and Lincoln Park Campuses

According to the latest NICHE data, BISC South Loop has been recognized as the #1 private K–12 school in Illinois - and also as the most diverse. In fact, we’re ranked among the top 50 most diverse private schools in the entire country!

While our Lincoln Park campus (serving Pre-Nursery through Grade 5) isn’t included in this particular ranking, both of our Chicago campuses are united by the same core values. At BISC, we believe every member of our community should feel seen, valued, and supported for who they are. This belief guides everything we do - from how we welcome families, to how we teach, care for, and connect with our students.

Creating an Inclusive Culture

Inclusion at BISC goes beyond what we can see - like race, language, or age. It’s also about understanding the differences that aren’t always visible, such as how we think, feel, and learn. These differences may show up in unique ways over time, and we’re committed to making space to learn about and celebrate them.

Even this model is not perfect: our perception of characteristics above the waterline still requires awareness of our bias and assumptions.  

We honor cultural traditions, explore diverse perspectives in our curriculum, and most importantly, we pay close attention to how each child learns. Recognizing and supporting different learning styles not only helps students grow academically - it also builds their confidence and self-esteem.

Why Neurodiversity Matters

Our understanding of how to support neurodivergent learners continues to grow, thanks to ongoing research and advocacy. October is ADHD Awareness Month, and this year’s theme - “The Many Faces of ADHD” - reminds us that ADHD can look different in every child. Some may struggle with focus, others with impulsivity or emotional regulation. Some may appear calm at school but experience big emotions at home. These behaviors reflect the unique ways their brains process the world.

According to the ADHD Neurodiversity Charity, there’s been a 400% increase in individuals seeking diagnosis in the UK over the past five years. This may be due to greater awareness and reduced stigma, or simply a desire to better understand certain behaviors.

Strengths associated with ADHD

We understand that some parents may feel hesitant about seeking an evaluation, worrying it might affect their child’s self-esteem. But in many cases, a diagnosis can bring clarity, reduce anxiety, and help children understand how their brains work. It’s important to know that ADHD is not linked to intelligence, and it’s not something children simply “grow out of.”

At BISC, our goal is not just to identify challenges, but to recognize strengths. Neurodivergent students often bring creativity, energy and fresh perspectives to the classroom. We focus on building learning environments that support all students, whether they have a diagnosis or not.

Supporting Students with ADHD Traits

Whether or not a child has a formal diagnosis, there are many ways we can support them both at home and at school:

• Keep routines and expectations consistent- predictability helps.
• Break tasks into smaller steps and give one instruction at a time.
• Help organize their space and materials.
• Use visual schedules, calendars, or checklists.
• Minimize distractions and allow for regular breaks.
• Offer specific praise—let them know exactly what they did well and why.

Our Ongoing Commitment

In today’s complex world, we’re grateful to be part of the Nord Anglia family, where diversity, equity, and inclusion are celebrated across all 89 schools. At BISC, we also tailor our approach to meet the needs of our local community here in Chicago.

This year, we’re continuing our work with staff, families, and students to explore what inclusion and belonging truly mean. Our goal is simple: that every person who walks through our doors feels a sense of belonging and acceptance, no matter who they are.