CICS Loomis is a tuition-free early childhood K–3rd grade public charter school in Chicago’s Washington Heights neighborhood. We build a love of learning, and a positive school culture by building strong connections with students, staff, and families. With a focus on personalized, inclusive learning environments, our students feel a sense of belonging in their first experiences with school! These are the most formative years of a child’s educational journey, and we take that responsibility seriously as we provide a small, nurturing community for students to thrive.

CICS Loomis is a part of the larger Loomis-Longwood community. Our learners are part of our community from K-12, as they transition to CICS Longwood Elementary and then to CICS Longwood High School, all within the same beautiful campus. CICS Loomis staff are experts in early childhood education and know how important it is that students experience the joy of learning at a young age. That’s why we provide plenty of opportunities for celebration, field trips, enrichment classes—like music, dance, and gym—and parent involvement. We prioritize student voice, because we want our learners to feel heard and cared for from the moment they enter our doors.

At Distinctive Schools, we lead the charge in creating a collaborative, innovative, and welcoming public education experience. We were founded in 2011, by a passionate group of people who believed that every learner deserves access to a high-quality education where they are seen, supported, and celebrated. We elevate access, achievement, and belonging for every student so they may thrive throughout their education, career, and life. Our mission is to create diverse, joyful, welcoming communities where students become confident advocates, creative problem-solvers, and collaborative leaders. We are committed to building schools that truly feel like home – preparing students to thrive in a world of endless possibilities.

CICS Loomis will provide students with the necessary tools and skills needed to develop superior levels of achievement. We strive for academic, social and physical excellence by providing a quality and challenging curriculum. We promote positive moral and social values, foster an atmosphere of self-discipline in a safe learning environment, and maximize individual productivity to meet the needs of a changing global society.