Private Schools in Elgin, Illinois

Elgin Academy:
Elgin Academy, chartered in 1839, is an independent, co-educational college preparatory day school located in Elgin, a suburb approximately 40 miles north-west of Chicago. Most of Elgin lies within Kane County, with a portion in Cook County, Illinois. Elgin Academy serves preschool through to Grade 12 students from Elgin, Barrington, St. Charles, Dundee, Algonquin and approximately 35 other communities.

Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum:
Our approach to curriculum is not complex. We are constantly seeking to provide children with opportunities to find learning joyful. Our approach is integrated and holistic – we seek to provide developmental opportunities not only in cognitive areas but also in the social, emotional and physical aspects of the child's growth. Our philosophy includes an enduring respect for developing the individuality, creativity and self-esteem of each child. Material presented to children will at all times be developmentally appropriate.

While rote learning of concepts (the alphabet, counting etc.) is possible, meaningful learning does not take place for young children unless the information presented is relevant to the child's experience and development. If learning is relevant, children are highly likely to be motivated and persistent. The child's initiative comes from a natural curiosity about the world.

Lower School (Grades K-4) Curriculum:
While the curriculum provides significant structure and ensures a core background for all students, it also allows each individual the flexibility of a program that is appropriate, challenging and of particular interest. Students are required to take language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the arts, foreign language and physical education.  

Middle School (Grades 5-8) Curriculum:
Our program provides significant structure and ensures a core background for fifth through eighth graders. Students are required to take mathematics, English, science, social studies, mythology, computer, humanities, foreign language (French, Spanish or Latin), the arts (music, visual arts, and theatre), and physical education. Underlying the core curriculum is an acknowledgment of the importance of character education. We agree with the words of Socrates that the goal of education is to enable our children to be both smart and good. 

Upper School (Grades 9-12) Curriculum:
The Upper School curriculum is structured with college preparation in mind. A series of courses provides all students with the depth and breadth expected by the finest colleges. Students must complete:

* English – 4 years
* Mathematics – 4 years
* Social Studies – 3 1/2 years
* Foreign Language – 3 years
* Laboratory Sciences – 3 years
* Fine Arts – 2 years
* Athletics – 6 seasons
* Total credits required – 24 1/2

While the program provides significant structure and ensures a core background for all students, it also allows each individual the flexibility needed to build a selection of courses that is appropriate, challenging and of particular interest.