Ravenswood School Receives Magnet Cluster School Designation

Alderman Schulter and the Chicago Public Schools are very excited to announce that Ravenswood Elementary School, 4332 N. Paulina St., will become a Fine and Performing Arts Magnet Cluster School, effective September 2009.  One of the innovative specialty programs offered by the Chicago Public Schools' Office of Academic Enhancement, a magnet cluster school is a neighborhood school that offers a magnet program to enhance the school curriculum.  Students are accepted citywide through a computerized lottery for spaces available after neighborhood students have been accommodated.

The Fine and Performing Arts program is designed to encourage students' creative and artistic expression, and develops their interest in art, music, dance, and/or drama.  The program is integrated throughout the curriculum, and faculty and students work with some of the city's premier arts institutions and artists, both in the schools and throughout the city. 

“This designation is a great step forward for our community,” states Alderman Schulter.  “I have worked very hard with the families of Ravenswood School to advocate for the best educational opportunities for Chicago residents.  The creation of another magnet cluster provides another viable option for local families.”

Principal Heather Connolly and the Ravenswood Elementary Local School Council have been instrumental in uniting the teachers, parents, and community towards creating positive changes for Ravenswood Elementary, including advocating for the Fine and Performing Arts Magnet designation and extensive fundraising efforts. 

“What we’ve been able to accomplish speaks to the dedication of the community,” comments Principal Connolly.   This designation will give us the chance to grow and build and incredible arts program.  We are all very excited about this new opportunity.”

Ravenswood School currently enrolls 430 students.  Next year, the school plans to enroll 480 local students.