Polaris Charter Academy

Polaris Charter Academy Where Learning Has No Boundaries... So what would it look like if an entire school was focused on this approach?

The mission of Polaris Charter Academy is to educate students to be self-motivated, creative, critical thinkers, with the ultimate goal of shaping life-long learners and citizens with a strong sense of personal and civic responsibility. While on sabbatical in the fall of 2005, three Golden Apple Award winning teachers identified the common thread of their best practices in teaching: learning by do

ing. Each founder had attributed their success in the classroom to a specific approach focused on participatory, hands-on, project-based learning and in-depth study of compelling topics. The vision of these award-winning teachers came to fruition when Polaris Charter Academy opening its doors in 2007 as the city’s first Expeditionary Learning school, a comprehensive educational reform model which grew out of a partnership between Harvard University and Outward Bound. PCA opened with grades K through 2nd and now serves 450 students in grades K through 8th. Polaris Charter Academy structures its sciences and social studies curriculum around “learning expeditions.” These in-depth investigations are different from traditional thematic units. Learning expeditions are long-term investigations spanning one or more trimesters that are developed around specific Illinois State Learning Standards. They related to real-world topics or concerns that make learning relevant to students’ lives. Learning expeditions provide a rigorous, stimulating educational experience that requires the application and mastery of a wide range of skills, including conducting research through interviews, surveys, books, and the internet. Students conduct fieldwork, learn from experts, work collaboratively and create authentic, high-quality end products for audiences beyond the classroom. Final products have been featured in the Chicago news, public libraries, organizational education programs, and more.

A huge shout-out to Scholastic & the Polaris Charter Academy family for a very successful end-of-year Scholastic Book Fa...
06/12/2026

A huge shout-out to Scholastic & the Polaris Charter Academy family for a very successful end-of-year Scholastic Book Fair. With abundant support from teachers & families, we were able to raise enough money to fund books & materials for an entire classroom next year.

Thank you so much for your support, & look out for our next Scholastic Book Fair.

¡Un enorme agradecimiento a Scholastic y a la familia Polaris por el gran éxito de nuestra Feria del Libro Scholastic de fin de año!

Gracias al increíble apoyo de nuestros maestros y familias, logramos recaudar fondos suficientes para comprar libros y materiales para todo un salón de clases el próximo año.

¡Muchísimas gracias por su apoyo! Estén atentos a nuestra próxima Feria del Libro Scholastic. Scholastic Teachers Illinois Network of Charter Schools West Humboldt Park Development Council Kelly Hall YMCA Chicago Public Library Chicago Public Schools Breakthrough Urban Ministries Hope Ignites Chicago ELEducation Kelly Hall YMCA

🎉 A proud & joyful day Polaris Charter Academy!Today, our Kindergarten scholars celebrated their First Word Passage Cere...
06/12/2026

🎉 A proud & joyful day Polaris Charter Academy!

Today, our Kindergarten scholars celebrated their First Word Passage Ceremony, marking an important step in their journey as readers & learners.

One by one, our young scholars confidently shared: “I am ready for first grade because…”

Their voices reflected how much they have grown throughout the year. With families, classmates, teachers, & staff cheering them on, they showed courage, determination, & the true spirit of the Polaris Point of Explorer.

🌟 A special shining star cheer for Ms. Krischon & Ms. Kimmie!
Thank you for creating a classroom filled with encouragement, care, & meaningful learning. Your dedication has helped our scholars build the confidence & skills they need for their next adventure.

Congratulations, Kindergarten! We are so proud of you & cannot wait to see you shine in first grade!

¡Un día de mucho orgullo y alegría en Polaris Charter Academy!

Hoy, nuestros estudiantes de Kindergarten celebraron su Ceremonia del Primer Paso de Lectura, marc&o un momento importante en su crecimiento como lectores y estudiantes.

Uno por uno, nuestros pequeños estudiantes compartieron con confianza:
“Estoy listo/a para primer grado porque…”

Sus voces demostraron todo lo que han aprendido y cuánto han crecido durante el año. Rodeados del apoyo de sus familias, compañeros, maestros y personal de Polaris, demostraron valentía, determinación y el verdadero espíritu del Punto Polaris del Explorador.

🌟 ¡Un aplauso de estrella brillante para Ms. Krischon y Ms. Kimmie! Gracias por crear un salón lleno de motivación, cariño y aprendizaje significativo. Su dedicación ha ayudado a nuestros estudiantes a desarrollar la confianza y las habilidades necesarias para su próxima aventura.

¡Felicidades, Kindergarten! ¡Estamos muy orgullosos de ustedes y emocionados por verlos brillar en primer grado! Kells Park Community Council West Humboldt Park Development Council Breakthrough Urban Ministries Kelly Hall YMCA Illinois Network of Charter Schools WGN Morning News WTTW - Chicago PBS

🌟 Triple Light Leader Spotlight 🌟We’re proud to celebrate London as our Triple Light Leader for demonstrating Active Cit...
06/11/2026

🌟 Triple Light Leader Spotlight 🌟

We’re proud to celebrate London as our Triple Light Leader for demonstrating Active Citizen & Integrity! She was previously recognized for Compassion, making this her third Light Leader Award.

London’s classmates & teachers shared that she consistently does the right thing, even when no one is watching. She helps others, stands up for her crewmates, encourages her peers to get involved, & makes sure everyone feels welcome & supported. She is a trusted leader because of her honesty, responsibility, kindness, & willingness to solve problems in a positive way.

London is a true example of what it means to be a Polaris Charter Academy Light Leader. Her words & actions continue to make our community stronger.

Way to go, London! 💙✨

🌟 Reconocimiento a una Líder de Luz por Tercera Vez🌟

¡Estamos orgullosos de celebrar a London como nuestra Líder de Luz por tercera vez por demostrar Ciudadanía Activa e Integridad! Anteriormente fue reconocida por su Compasión, lo que convierte este en su tercer Premio de Líder de Luz.

Los compañeros y maestros de London compartieron que ella hace lo correcto constantemente, incluso cuando nadie la está observando. Ayuda a los demás, defiende a sus compañeros, anima a sus compañeros a participar y se asegura de que todos se sientan bienvenidos y apoyados. Es una líder de confianza por su honestidad, responsabilidad, amabilidad y disposición para resolver problemas de manera positiva.

London es un verdadero ejemplo de lo que significa ser una Líder de Luz de Polaris. Sus palabras y acciones continúan fortaleciendo nuestra comunidad.

¡Excelente trabajo, London! 💙✨

🌟 Polaris Light Leader: Compassion 🌟Congratulations Casiyah, who was honored as a light leader for demonstrating compass...
06/11/2026

🌟 Polaris Light Leader: Compassion 🌟

Congratulations Casiyah, who was honored as a light leader for demonstrating compassion throughout our school community! Casiyah is known for being kind, cooperative, & willing to do the right thing. She also inspires others through her caring attitude by asking for help when needed, continuing to try, & treating others with kindness.

Casiyah, thank you for leading with kindness & compassion. We are proud of you! 💙

🌟 Líder de Luz de Polaris: Compasión 🌟

¡Felicitaciones a Casiyah, quien fue reconocida como Líder de Luz por demostrar compasión en toda nuestra comunidad escolar! Casiyah es conocida por ser amable, colaboradora y estar dispuesta a hacer lo correcto. También inspira a los demás con su actitud solidaria al pedir ayuda cuando la necesita, seguir intentándolo y tratar a los demás con amabilidad.

Casiyah, gracias por liderar con amabilidad y compasión. ¡Estamos muy orgullosos de ti! 💙 Illinois Network of Charter Schools West Humboldt Park Development Council Kelly Hall YMCA Breakthrough Urban Ministries Nora Ryan Meghan Princehorn-Vale Chicago Public Library Chicago Public Schools ELEducation WGN Morning News WTTW - Chicago PBS Hope Ignites Chicago

Congratulations, Through your hard work, perseverance, & dedication, you have given yourself one of the greatest gifts:...
06/05/2026

Congratulations,

Through your hard work, perseverance, & dedication, you have given yourself one of the greatest gifts: the gift of education. This valuable gift will open doors, help you pursue your dreams, & enable you to make a positive impact on the world. We are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished & grateful to have shared this journey with you.

As you enter high school, we hope the Points of Polaris Charter Academy & the spirit of Crew continue to guide you. We wish you the very best in high school, college, & beyond. Remember, no matter where life takes you:

Polaris Charter Academy WILL ALWAYS BE YOUR NORTH STAR.
WE ARE CREW!

With much love,
Your Teachers & Staff

¡Felicidades, Clase del 2026!

A través de su esfuerzo, perseverancia y dedicación, se han regalado uno de los obsequios más valiosos: el regalo de la educación. Este regalo abrirá puertas, les ayudará a perseguir sus sueños y les permitirá tener un impacto positivo en el mundo. Estamos increíblemente orgullosos de todo lo que han logrado y agradecidos de haber compartido este camino con ustedes.

Al comenzar la escuela secundaria, esperamos que los Puntos de Polaris y el espíritu de Crew sigan guiándolos. Les deseamos lo mejor en la secundaria, la universidad y más allá. Recuerden, sin importar a dónde los lleve la vida:

La Polaris Charter Academy SIEMPRE SERÁ SU ESTRELLA DEL NORTE.
¡SOMOS CREW!

Con mucho cariño,
Sus maestros y el personal Illinois Network of Charter Schools West Humboldt Park Development Council Kelly Hall YMCA Chicago Public Library Kells Park Community Council Breakthrough Urban Ministries Chicago Public Schools

Congratulations to our amazing cast of Matilda the Musical Jr. for a fun & unforgettable performance. A special shout ou...
06/03/2026

Congratulations to our amazing cast of Matilda the Musical Jr. for a fun & unforgettable performance. A special shout out to our wonderful directors, Ms. Barrymore & Ms. Bosch, for bringing this production to life with so much creativity, care, & heart. Thank you to all of our families for attending & supporting our students. We are so proud of everyone involved! 💙

Felicitaciones a nuestro increíble elenco de Matilda the Musical Jr. por una presentación divertida e inolvidable. Un agradecimiento especial a nuestras maravillosas directoras, Ms. Barrymore y Ms. Bosch, por dar vida a esta producción con tanta creatividad, dedicación y cariño. Gracias a todas nuestras familias por asistir y apoyar a nuestros estudiantes. ¡Estamos muy orgullosos de todos! 💙 Illinois Network of Charter Schools West Humboldt Park Development Council Kelly Hall YMCA Uniting Voices Chicago Kells Park Community Council ELEducation Chicago Public Schools Chicago Public Library WTTW - Chicago PBS WGN Morning News WGN TV

Our Polaris Charter Academy 8th graders, Class of 2026, are practicing for graduation this Friday at 10 a.m. at Westingh...
06/02/2026

Our Polaris Charter Academy 8th graders, Class of 2026, are practicing for graduation this Friday at 10 a.m. at Westinghouse College Prep. We are so proud of them & excited to celebrate this milestone as they prepare for their next chapter in high school! 💙✨

Nuestros estudiantes de 8.º grado de Polaris Charter Academy, Clase de 2026, están practicando para su graduación este viernes a las 10 a.m. en Westinghouse College Prep. ¡Estamos muy orgullosos de ellos y emocionados de celebrar este logro mientras se preparan para su próximo capítulo en la escuela secundaria! 💙✨ Illinois Network of Charter Schools West Humboldt Park Development Council Kelly Hall YMCA Kells Park Community Council Chicago Public Schools Chicago Public Library Breakthrough Urban Ministries

05/29/2026

And just like that, Final Word has come to a close.

On our last day, we listened as our 8th graders stood before their classmates, families, & teachers to share pieces of their stories — where they have been, what they have learned, & who they are becoming.

Today, we proudly celebrated Erin, Ariel, Dre'von, Jayla, Keely, Juelz, Taliyah, Brook'Lyn, Ayana, Skarlette, Ke'miyah, and Anthony.

Final Word is more than a speech. It is a reminder of each student’s growth, courage, & voice. As graduation approaches on June 5, we are honored to celebrate this incredible class & all that lies ahead.

We are so proud of our 8th graders.

Y así, Palabras Finales ha llegado a su cierre.

En nuestro último día, escuchamos a nuestros estudiantes de 8.º grado compartir partes de sus historias frente a sus compañeros, familias y maestros: dónde han estado, lo que han aprendido y en quiénes se están convirtiendo.

Hoy, celebramos con orgullo a Erin, Ariel, Dre'von, Jayla, Keely, Juelz, Taliyah, Brook'Lyn, Ayana, Skarlette, Ke'miyah y Anthony.

Palabras Finales es más que un discurso. Es un recordatorio del crecimiento, la valentía y la voz de cada estudiante. Mientras se acerca la graduación el 5 de junio, nos sentimos honrados de celebrar a esta increíble clase y todo lo que les espera.

Estamos muy orgullosos de nuestros estudiantes de 8.º grado. Illinois Network of Charter Schools West Humboldt Park Development Council Kelly Hall YMCA Kells Park Community Council ELEducation WGN TV WGN Morning News Chicago Public Library Chicago Public Schools Breakthrough Urban Ministries The Salvation Army Freedom Center

05/28/2026

Final Word: Day Two

More stories that remind us why Final Word is such a meaningful Polaris tradition. On Day Two, our 8th graders shared reflections filled with courage, gratitude, growth, & hope for what comes next. Each speaker gave us a glimpse into their Polaris Charter Academy journey & the person they are becoming.

Today, we proudly celebrated Margot, Ra'Niya, Brayden, Christopher, Ta'Ziyah, Z'myrihanna, Robert, Amiere, Parish, Shalimar, and Aavion.

We are so proud of our 8th graders & excited to continue celebrating their voices throughout Final Word.

Palabras Finales: Día Dos

Más historias que nos recuerdan por qué Palabras Finales es una tradición tan significativa en Polaris.

En el Día Dos, nuestros estudiantes de 8.º grado compartieron reflexiones llenas de valentía, gratitud, crecimiento y esperanza por lo que viene. Cada orador nos dio una mirada a su trayectoria en Polaris y a la persona en la que se está convirtiendo.

Hoy, celebramos con orgullo a Margot, Ra'Niya, Brayden, Christopher, Ta'Ziyah, Z'myrihanna, Robert, Amiere, Parish, Shalimar y Aavion.

Estamos muy orgullosos de nuestros estudiantes de 8.º grado y emocionados de seguir celebrando sus voces durante Palabras Finales. Illinois Network of Charter Schools West Humboldt Park Development Council Kelly Hall YMCA Kells Park Community Council Breakthrough Urban Ministries ELEducation Chicago Public Library Chicago Public Schools WGN TV WTTW - Chicago PBS The Salvation Army Freedom Center Hope Ignites Chicago

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620 N Sawyer Avenue
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