Ancona School

Ancona's Montessori tradition shapes a child-centered program that builds a strong academic foundation and encourages independent, lifelong learning. The Chicago school educates children to become creative problem solvers and confident risk takers, while nurturing their voices and inner lives. Its approach places learning within an intentionally integrated community of cultural, economic, and individual diversity. Ancona describes its work as dedicated to social justice and culturally responsive, anti-bias education. The school also emphasizes understanding, care, and respect for others, alongside the pursuit of justice and peace. Outdoor learning takes place in a 15,000-square-foot space. Ancona serves students through 8th grade and reports an average class size of 18 and a student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1.