Spectrum School

Learning is a lifelong process.  Spectrum Progressive School has served the Rockford area since 1967, offering a genuine alternative to traditional education.
At Spectrum Progressive, we believe all children are unique.
We believe every child learns in a different way and every child has undiscovered gifts, talents, and potential.
We involve each student in a personalized, action-oriented curriculum throughout all developmental levels.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-9
  • Enrollment: 138 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $9,000
  • Acceptance rate: 90%
  • Average class size: 12 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

School News

  • Empathy in Action - 08/22/2023
    How Spectrum students are making a difference for endangered animals

School Overview

School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-9
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia, Sensory
Year Founded
1967

Student Body

Total Students
138 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
10%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade
Spectrum School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
6 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
23:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
25%
Average Class Size
12 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
We fundraise to provide tuition assistance, but it is limited at this time.
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Marci Hallgren
Admissions Associate
Gloria Gustafson

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
5 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Coding Class, Japanese Club, Makers Club, Spanish Club

Arts and Music Programs:
Band

School Notes

The goals of the curriculum are to:
  • Allow children to develop, through active involvement, the skills of reasoning, planning, and problem-solving within and beyond the school setting;
  • Allow students to develop secure self-concepts based on belief in their own abilities and firm foundations in the fundamentals of learning;
  • Guide the children to direct exploration of the arts, literature, the accomplishments of civilizations and the diversity of cultural heritage;
In order to create mindful, self-directed learners for life.
  • Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
    • Jonathan Carbone, 2000 - Jonathan Carbone graduated from Spectrum School in the year 2000. Jonathan had a rough start in life weighing only 4 lbs at full term birth. As he grew it was obvious that he had some difficulties with muscular coordination. He struggled with throwing a ball, riding a tricycle, and , in his early elementary years at Spectrum, had great difficulty drawing, and making letters and numbers. His teachers used multiple materials and strategies to help him work on his eye-hand coordination. Beginning reading was difficult as his letters were not stabilized. He was never made to feel inadequate or like a failure. Because the classrooms were multi-age, it was not an issue that he remained in the same class for more than a year. Indeed Jonathan was quite pleased to spend additional time with the person who became one of his favorite teachers. When he was ready and confident in his abilities, he moved on and on – to graduate from college, to attain a Masters Degree from New York University and a Doctorate from Florida International University. He now teaches courses in Legal Psychology at the University level.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Spectrum School cost?
Spectrum School's tuition is approximately $9,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Spectrum School?
The acceptance rate of Spectrum School is 90%, which is lower than the national average of 91%.
Who are famous alumni from Spectrum School?
Spectrum School famous alumni include: Jonathan Carbone, 2000.
When is the application deadline for Spectrum School?
The application deadline for Spectrum School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (3 reviews)
5  
Spectrum has been an incredible experience for our son. Teachers and admins have performed miracle acts to get through the last few years (pandemic speaking) by keeping everyone healthy, and safe, while the school operates against all odds. The kids, especially my child, are thriving and learning beyond the comprehension of the limitations everyone worked through. Highly suggest Spectrum to any parent seeking an amazing education for their child in Rockford, Illinois.
- Posted by
5  
We love this school. My two kids can't wait to get to school in the morning. They learning environment is exceptional. The kids learn how to learn using a multiple intelligences approach. The 12:1 student/teacher ration is fantastic. My kids have increased their self-confidence and knowledge in an environment that values exploration, instead of learning by rote.
- Posted by
5  
I just wanted to say I LOVE spectrum so much and we would be there if we hadn't moved to California. Miss the school and its amazing teachers and staff everyday! I recommend always when my friends in the area are searching. Every staff member and teacher works tirelessly to innovate and engage students always. Their dedication, passion and care and love for the kids is something very special that you do not see everyday. Amazing School!
- Posted by

Endorse Spectrum School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:

  • Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
  • Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
  • Academic or athletic awards
Endorse this school:

Recent Articles

Private School Search Tips
Private School Search Tips
We look at several ways you can use to search for private schools. Whether you are beginning the search process for a school for your child or just want to find out more about particular schools, we offer some tips and tricks to make searching more efficient.
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Discover the essential ingredients that drive academic success and cultivate a thriving school community.
All About JROTC
All About JROTC
Explore the multifaceted advantages of Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs in private schools. Delve into how JROTC cultivates leadership, discipline, and citizenship skills among students, contributing to their holistic development and future success.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-9
  • Enrollment: 138 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $9,000
  • Acceptance rate: 90%
  • Average class size: 12 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Request Information

Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Rockford, IL is $5,675 for elementary schools and $7,320 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Rockford, IL is 95% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

Quick Links