PARENT ESSENTIALS

QUESTIONS

• How many students are in a class, and what is the student–teacher ratio?

  Our class sizes range from 12–22 depending on the year group. Our student–teacher ratio is 9:1. 
• What languages do you offer, and when do they start?

  South Loop offers French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin. Spanish and French instruction spans from Nursery to Year 6. In Middle and High School, students may choose between any of the four languages on offer, or even study two.  
• Are you a selective school?

  South Loop is academically non-selective, because we believe no one has a limit to their potential or ability. When considering applicants, we look to see if they share our values of respect, tolerance, and open-mindedness, and whether we can accommodate their individual needs to ensure they receive the best possible education.
• How is your approach to teaching different from other schools’?

  South Loop implements Nord Anglia Education’s “Be Ambitious” approach to teaching. We are committed to developing children’s minds and relationships, as well as their understanding of their place within the community and the world at large. We achieve this by educating children to become:
  
  • lifelong learners who are principled and empathetic
  • tolerant and sensitive members of the school and community
  • responsible, knowledgeable, and adaptable citizens ready to prosper in an ever-changing and challenging world
  • future leaders
  

   
• Do you have provisions for children with special educational needs?

  South Loop is an inclusive school. We understand not all children find it easy to learn. That’s why our Learning Support department provides targeted assistance for children who need extra help.
• Where do your families live, and do you provide school buses?

  Our families come from all around Chicago, including South Loop, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, Wicker Park, and Pilsen. We offer a bus from Lincoln Park.
• As a parent, how can I get involved?

  South Loop encourages every parent to take an active role in school life and events. We offer Parent Representative roles to focus on building relationships in our learning community.
  
• How does the school communicate with parents?

  South Loop stays in touch with parents through an array of mediums:
  • face-to-face conversations, either at formally planned Parent Consultations or informal meetings at the request of parent or teacher
  • each year group receives reports throughout the year
  • email dialogue between teacher and parent
  • online platforms where teachers post pictures and updates from your child’s class
  • South Loop’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages
  • weekly newsletter highlighting events and activities
  • regular coffee mornings where Mum and Dad can meet fellow parents in a more relaxed setting
  

   
• Is a school lunch provided, and where is the food sourced from and made?

  The cafeteria is run by Quest Foods Management Services, who adhere to only the highest standards of food hygiene and preparation. Students may choose from a range of meals, and our healthy eating policy ensures each is nutritious and freshly cooked. Quest Foods has been operating for over 30 years, establishing itself as a culinary leader providing tailored dining experiences and wholesome, hearty meals.