The mission of Howard Area Leadership Academy is to provide rigorous opportunities for students to gain the skills needed to transition to employment, college or other forms of higher education.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked IL School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: 10-12
- Enrollment: 126 students
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Howard Area Leadership Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 10-12
Year Founded
1997
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
126 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
98%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
9 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
14:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
100%
Average Class Size
18 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- Guiding Principles: Higher Learning
- No Excuses
- See it Through
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Howard Area Leadership Academy's ranking?
Howard Area Leadership Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Highest percentage of students of color and Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Howard Area Leadership Academy?
The application deadline for Howard Area Leadership Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Howard Area Leadership Academy located?
Howard Area Leadership Academy is located in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL. There are 4 other private schools located in Rogers Park.
School Reviews
Endorse Howard Area Leadership Academy. 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
Recent Articles

Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.

For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.

2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.