Progressive Education

District 36 schools have a long tradition of leadership in progressive public education. Throughout its history, the District’s commitment to the consideration of the individual needs of the whole child and to the mastery of academic skills has never wavered. That commitment to educational excellence is grounded in a firm belief in individualized education and relies upon the active involvement of teachers and parents in the educational process.

Administration

The District Office is staffed with a Superintendent, a Business Manager, Director of Pupil Services, and a Director of Curriculum. Each elementary building has a principal. Carleton Washburne School and The Skokie School each have an assistant principal.

Professional Staff

Over 84% of the 223 member professional staff hold advanced degrees and average nearly 11 years of teaching experience. 102 teacher associates support the instructional program.

Special Education

Special education services are provided through both the District and the Northern Suburban Special Education District (NSSED), which is comprised of 19 school districts. Individual students are served through a learning disabilities program, reading improvement programs, social workers, and speech therapists.

Developmental Learning

Dedication to developmental and integrated learning is evidenced by programs that develop a wide range of interests. In the elementary schools, children may start the Suzuki string program in kindergarten or join the orchestra in grade 5. Spanish and technology are integrated into the regular curriculum beginning in the Grade 1. Students in grades 5 and 6 are assigned to a 2-teacher-core program.

Students in grades 7 and 8 are taught English, social studies, math, and science classes by teams of 4 teachers. Students also devote one period to second language and/or three twelve-week blocks of elective classes. All students are assigned to an advisor who monitors their academic and social progress, provides guidance for improving study skills, and arranges additional parent conferences when necessary.

Community Support

Strong financial support of education by Winnetka residents dates back to 1859 when the first public school building was financed by private funds. In 1917, having reached the limit of its bonding power, the community responded generously to volunteers in a door-to-door fundraising campaign to build a new junior high school. Extensive parental involvement in school programs, PTO activities, and as volunteers in the classrooms has assisted the District in achieving its outstanding reputation.

Approximately 95% of the District’s annual operating expense per-pupil is derived from local sources. Furthermore, the community has funded the Winnetka Public Schools Foundation which raises money annually to support school programs.