Our school draws upon the time-tested insights of Progressive and Montessori education: from 3 years old through kindergarten, children learn in multi-age Montessori classrooms; our 1st-8th grade curriculum is student-led and Montessori-inspired. We integrate modern research-based pedagogies to create a dynamic learning community that values each child’s unique abilities and interests. Ancona’s curriculum is ingeniously thoughtful and creative, because it is developed by extraordinary teachers and designed for highly engaged, active learners.

As a school, we courageously take a stand on issues of social justice.

Ancona transcends the barriers of traditional education. Here exploration, self-motivation, and collaboration trump standardized tests and rote memorization. Our children develop a passion for learning that flourishes at Ancona and beyond. 

Long before diversity was a buzz word, Ancona defined it. It’s been in our DNA from the day we opened our doors. In fact, Ancona piloted the nation’s first Head Start Montessori program. More than any other independent school in Chicago, Ancona opens children’s hearts and minds to others of differing racial, cultural, ethnic, and economic backgrounds.

Ancona students learn how to learn, how to think, and how to navigate and evaluate the myriad claims and bits of information that come their way in this information-saturated age.