CircleRock5

What We Do

Catalyst Schools are a two campus Chicago charter network providing college-preparatory and

values-based K-12 education to children from urban communities that allow them to thrive in

their academic and social-emotional growth. The network is guided by a mission in which a child

is holistically educated by a school community committed to “Teaching minds and touching

hearts.” 

 

Over 90% of the scholar population of Catalyst Schools qualifies for the federal free and

reduced-price lunch program, and scholars range in age from 5 to 18. 

 

The 520 scholars at Catalyst-Circle Rock (K-8; Austin) and 1,100 at Catalyst-Maria (K-12; Chicago Lawn) 

are provided a rigorous academic curriculum with a heavy emphasis on balanced literacy and

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education and frequent exposure to technology

through the use of iPads, Chromebooks and more. Scholars learn social-emotional skills through targeted instruction

around leadership, positive character traits and values, which scholars and staff embody in their daily

interactions. Catalyst partners with several non-profit organizations that provide external

instructors for the network’s fine arts enrichment initiative, including

Ravinia Reach*Teach*Play, Chicago Children's Choir and May I Have This Dance? Ballroom Dancing.

The schools also provide Post-Secondary Success and Graduate Support programs to augment scholars’

academic instruction to ensure that scholars have the social-emotional tools and vision to graduate from high school and pursue post-

secondary studies.

 

The Catalyst Schools are school communities where staff, scholars and families holistically

develop children and their ability to be active collaborators in their education and lives. This

mission allows children to open minds and hearts to life, to love, and to knowledge.

Ravinia-Catalyst Circle Rockets Continue to Grow!

On Wednesday, members of the Ravinia Women’s Board presented dozens of scholars new to the Circle Rockets Orchestra with their new instruments! The Ravinia sponsored Circle Rockets now numbers over 100 scholars practicing ten hours per week after-school! We are incredibly grateful to Ravinia’s Reach-Teach-Play program and the Ravinia Women’s Board for their inspirational commitment to Catalyst and our scholars! Check out scholars with their new instrument below!

 

 

Athletics

Wolves Logo

Please click the logo to be redirected to the athletic department site.

The Catalyst Maria Wolves athletic program focuses on building leadership while promoting competitive excellence. The Catalyst Maria Wolves are represented at the High School and Middle School levels in sports that include basketball, soccer, cheerleading, football, softball, baseball, track and volleyball. Please contact Athletic Director Mr. Raymond White Jr. at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (773) 993-1770 ext. 4100 for more information.

 

Support Catalyst    

Please join our efforts as a champion for changing lives at The Catalyst Schools. If you would like to speak with a Catalyst staff member about your donation, please call us at 773-295-7001.