Catalyst Howland
Opening Year: 2006
Entry to USI Network: 2009
Type of School: Charter
Grade Levels in 2009-2010: K-8
Student Enrollment:
Address: 1616 S. Spaulding Ave,
Chicago, IL 60623
Neighborhood: North Lawndale
Principal: Chaun Johnson
Website: http://www.catalystschools.org
Overview:
Catalyst Howland is one of two schools in the Catalyst Schools network. The primary objective of Catalyst Schools is to expand the horizons of students beyond the confines of their neighborhoods toward the achievement of broader educational goals. The Catalyst approach is built upon academic excellence, graduate support and community involvement. In the classroom, educators implement a rigorous academic program focused on math and reading. To that end, students dedicate at least 80 minutes to math and 80 minutes to reading during each school day. Moreover, the Catalyst Schools graduate support program educates students and parents about the all-important high school selection process through countless presentations and workshops. Finally, Catalyst Howland serves as a center of strength for the North Lawndale community. The school not only encourages parent involvement in student life, but also provides educational workshops, resources on healthcare and financial counseling to community members. Ultimately, by providing an excellent education, meaningful graduate support and community resources, Catalyst Howland, and the Catalyst Schools network more generally, seeks to develop educated, concerned and committed citizens who work to improve their communities.