DECATUR CLASSICAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Decatur Classical Elem School is a public elementary school that is part of the Chicago Public Schools Dist 299 school district, located in Chicago, IL with about 281 students offering grade levels from Kindergarten to 6th Grade. With about 14 teachers, Decatur Classical Elem School has a student/teacher ratio of about 20:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Decatur Classical Elementary School, located in the West Ridge neighborhood of Chicago, is a highly regarded selective-enrollment school serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade. Unlike typical neighborhood schools, Decatur utilizes a rigorous, accelerated curriculum designed specifically for students identified as gifted. The school is well-known for its emphasis on critical thinking, independent inquiry, and a fast-paced learning environment that pushes students to excel beyond traditional grade-level expectations.

The school maintains a strong reputation for academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top-performing schools in the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) district. Beyond its core academics, Decatur fosters a tight-knit, inclusive community where families are deeply involved in the school's culture. By focusing on a "classical" approach—which often includes a heavy emphasis on humanities, logic, and comprehensive analytical skills—Decatur provides a distinct educational pathway for high-achieving students within the city of Chicago.

For more information, contact Decatur Classical Elem School at (773) 534-2201 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.