The Catalyst Schools is a system of Chicago-based K-8 and high school charter schools operating in the city's Austin and Chicago Lawn neighborhoods.
The two schools in the system are the Catalyst Circle Rock Elementary School and the Catalyst Maria Elementary School and High School.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked IL School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
- Enrollment: 258 students
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
Circle-Rock Preparatory School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-8
Year Founded
1995
School Calendar
Campus Size
2
Student Body
Total Students
258 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
100%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
14 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
18:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
18 students
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Application URL
School Notes
- School Motto: Teaching minds and touching hearts
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Circle-Rock Preparatory School's ranking?
Circle-Rock Preparatory School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Highest percentage of students of color and Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Circle-Rock Preparatory School?
The application deadline for Circle-Rock Preparatory School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Circle-Rock Preparatory School located?
Circle-Rock Preparatory School is located in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago, IL. There are 14 other private schools located in Austin.
School Reviews
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