Established in 1876, Sacred Heart has educated Chicago's children for more than 140 years.
As a Catholic, independent school, Sacred Heart provides a remarkable and challenging curriculum, as well as opportunities for service and engagement in topics and projects that facilitate social awareness.
Student/teacher ratio is 7:1, guaranteeing personalized attention for each student.
Unique in Chicago, our purposeful blend of single-gender and co-educational learning experiences encourages engagement, dispels gender stereotypes, and builds our students' confidence.
Active participation in the international network of 150 Sacred Heart schools in 41 countries ensures students graduate with an awareness of their place in the global community.
Ninety-five percent of Sacred Heart graduates are accepted into their first-choice high school.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked IL School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 644 students
- Yearly Tuition: $23,687
- Acceptance rate: 97%
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: Dec. 10 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Sacred Heart Schools ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
Sports offered
Extracurriculars
School History
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1876
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
Campus Size
3
Student Body
Total Students
644 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
23%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
62 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
70%
Average Class Size
18 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniform Requirements
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Dec. 10 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$23,687
Tuition Notes
2021-22 Preschool Tuition:
Full Day: $22,897
Half Day: $17,173
Activity Fees range from $395 - $531
2021-22 Grades SK-8 Tuition + Fees: $23,687
*Tuition for the 2022-23 academic year will be set in January 2022. Contact admissions@shschicago.org for more information.
Summer Program Cost Notes
Cost ranges from $650-$950
% on Financial Aid
25%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$15,250
Acceptance Rate
97%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Ann Chiumino
Admissions Associate
James Nuessen
Application URL
Endowment Size
$15 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
9 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
13 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Boy Scouts, Brownie Girl Scouts, Chess, Choir, Cub Scouts, Debate, Debate Team, Girl Scouts, Math Club, Science Olympiads
Arts and Music Programs:
Band, Glee Club, Musical Theater
School Notes
- School Motto: Educating the Head and the Heart
- School Mascot: Wildcat
WHAT SETS SACRED HEART APART
Catholic and Independent
Sacred Heart is Chicago's oldest independent school, serving the city's children since 1876. We are rooted in Catholicism and warmly welcome families of all faiths in a vibrant, diverse community. Pre kindergarten through 8th grade is located on our historic campus overlooking Lake Michigan at 6250 N. Sheridan Road.
A Unique, Innovative Approach to Education
Our approach to education combines a dynamic and challenging curriculum within a nurturing environment.With the support and dedication of exceptional teachers and staff, our students are inspired to achieve theirbest and be their best selves. Our community is guided by five timeless principles: faith, intellect, service, community, and personal growth. As a result, students graduate with a strong academic foundation, as well as confidence and values-ready to leave a positive mark on their communities and in the city`s best high schools.
The Network of Sacred Heart Schools
Founded in 1876, Sacred Heart Schools is Chicago's oldest independent school and is recognized world-wide, with 22 schools in the United States and more than 150 internationally.
Of Special Interest
- Sacred Heart offers bus transportation from the Gold Coast, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, Old Town, Roscoe Village, and Ravenswood.
- More than $3 million in need-based tuition assistance is awarded to 25% of our students.
- Free before school beginning at 7:30 am is available to all families.
- Free afterschool care until 6 pm is available to SK-8 families.
- Applications are available through www.ravenna-hub.comby creating an account and searching "Sacred Heart Schools" in the Chicago area.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Mother Elizabeth Tucker, Founder of Sacred Heart Schools Chicago -
- John Darnielle, Musician, The Mountain Goats -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Sacred Heart Schools cost?
Sacred Heart Schools's tuition is approximately $23,687 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Sacred Heart Schools?
The acceptance rate of Sacred Heart Schools is 97%, which is higher than the national average of 84%.
Who are famous alumni from Sacred Heart Schools?
Sacred Heart Schools famous alumni include: Mother Elizabeth Tucker, Founder of Sacred Heart Schools Chicago and John Darnielle, Musician, The Mountain Goats.
What sports does Sacred Heart Schools offer?
Sacred Heart Schools offers 9 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Flag Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Track and Field and Volleyball. Sacred Heart Schools is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for most sports offered.
What is Sacred Heart Schools's ranking?
Sacred Heart Schools ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Largest student body, Most sports offered, Most extracurriculars offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Sacred Heart Schools?
The application deadline for Sacred Heart Schools is Dec. 10 / rolling (applications are due on Dec. 10 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Sacred Heart Schools located?
Sacred Heart Schools is located in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago, IL. There are 2 other private schools located in Edgewater.
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Sacred Heart Schools also viewed these schools: Lake Shore Schools and St. Philip Lutheran School.
The nearest high school to Sacred Heart Schools is Misericordia School (1.3 miles away)
The nearest elementary school is Chicago Friends School (0.5 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Northshore Academy For Children (0.6 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Grades
Students
Grades: NS-K | 292 students 1 miles 5611 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60660
(773) 561-6707
Chicago, IL 60660
(773) 561-6707
1
NS-K
292
Grades: NS-8 | 70 students 2 miles 2500 W Bryn Mawr Ave
Chicago, IL 60659
(773) 561-9830
Chicago, IL 60659
(773) 561-9830
2
NS-8
70
School Reviews
5 2/9/2024
Three of my children attended Sacred Heart School, and their experience has been very positive. Their teachers have been very engaged and supportive of their learning. They are very happy about the school and want to go to school everyday. Highly recommended!
Endorse Sacred Heart Schools. 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
June 09, 2025
Is It Easier to Land a Private School Job When You're Already Employed?Is it easier to land a private school job when you're already employed? This article breaks down employer biases, networking advantages, and negotiation leverage—plus the latest hiring trends in independent schools. If you’re considering a move, here’s how to maximize your position.
June 09, 2025
How to Secure a Private School Job When You're Unemployed Without the StigmaFinding a private school job while unemployed can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold you back. This article breaks down networking strategies, ways to stand out, and smart approaches to keep your confidence strong. Learn how to turn setbacks into strengths and secure the right opportunity—without the stigma.
June 09, 2025
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed EducatorsNavigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.
