
June 16, 2025
Distinctive Schools is proud of our collaborative, innovative, and welcoming educational experience, where every student truly belongs. Distinctive students become confident advoc...

August 8, 2025
As we step into a brand-new school year, we’re filled with excitement, hope, and deep gratitude for the journey ahead. This year, we’re anchored by belonging , consistency , and...

July 18, 2025
At CICS Longwood High School , we believe that learning extends far beyond textbooks and classroom walls. From before the first bell to long after the last bell rings, a whole n...

July 11, 2025
As summer is in full swing, we’re taking a moment to reflect on and celebrate the incredible 2024–25 school year at CICS Longwood High School —a year of outstanding achievement,...

July 8, 2025
We’re excited to share our Anytime, Anywhere Learning Resources packed with summer activities, local events, and community opportunities happening all across the city. You can...

July 1, 2025
At Distinctive Schools, we believe that summer break is a vital opportunity for our community of students, families, and staff to rejuvenate and embrace the joys of the season. Wh...

June 13, 2025
Distinctive Schools is buzzing with excitement, pride, and a touch of bittersweet farewells as we celebrate our incredible "Step Up" ceremonies across our campuses! This special...

June 10, 2025
This is Part II in a three-part blog series exploring how Distinctive Schools is approaching artificial intelligence (AI) in education. From building custom tools to supporting s...

May 30, 2025
On May 15, students from CICS Longwood and CICS Lloyd Bond had an unforgettable experience as they welcomed the National Basketball Athletic Equipment Managers Association (NBA...

May 15, 2025
May is Mental Health Awareness month. At Distinctive Schools, we believe in fostering a culture where open, compassionate conversations about mental health are encouraged and are ...

April 23, 2025
April is Stress Awareness Month—a reminder to prioritize mental well-being. With academic and daily demands, Distinctive Schools students and families should take intentional mome...

April 7, 2025
No two Distinctive Schools Assistant Principals are exactly alike, but they all share a deep commitment to ignite teacher leadership and champion student excellence. As we prepa...

March 17, 2025
This is Part I in a three-part blog series exploring how Distinctive Schools is approaching artificial intelligence (AI) in education. From building custom tools to supporting st...
March 10, 2025
International Social Emotional Learning Day on March 10th is a way to celebrate the way SEL is “Uplifting Hearts, Connecting Minds.” Studies show SEL reduces stress and promotes...

February 18, 2025
Chicago, IL – February 18, 2025 – Distinctive Schools is excited to announce the appointment of Mary Beck as its new President, effective February 10, 2025. Beck, a longtime edu...

February 11, 2025
At Distinctive Schools, we believe strongly in the power of student voice – insight shared directly from our students is invaluable to us. Our Learner Advisory embodies this pr...
January 30, 2025
In a quiet room at CICS Longwood High School, a new kind of storytelling is unfolding. It’s not the kind of story you’ll find in a textbook or a traditional classroom – it’s real,...

December 4, 2024
In the spirit of this season, we’re uplifting the impact of being Distinctive through alumni voices. This couldn’t ring more true than with CICS Loomis-Longwood alum-turned-basket...

October 1, 2024
This Principal Appreciation Month , we’re celebrating CICS Longwood High School Principal Dr. Jeralyn Harris ’ illustrious 24 year career dedicated to transforming and impacting...

September 6, 2024
Still looking for the right fit for your student? Distinctive Schools campuses are still accepting K–12 grade applications for the 2024–2025 school year! Whether your child has ju...