Chicago’s First and Only Museum School!

Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy

1840 W Ohio St. Chicago, IL 60622

P: (773) 534-7130

F: (773) 534-7126

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are families interested in Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy?

Talcott is a safe school that supports excellent academic programs.  Talcott is one of 29 schools in Chicago that have displayed continued academic growth as metered by the Illinois State Achievement Test for the last seven years.  Talcott is the first and only museum school in the city and metropolitan area.  Talcott has a Dual Language program (Spanish) in select grades.  Talcott has three full-time fine arts teachers.  Talcott’s teachers are highly-skilled and committed to continued professional growth.  Parents are welcome to volunteer and help Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy.

 

Who can apply to Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy?

All families within Talcott’s attendance boundaries are eligible for enrollment.  Families, in Chicago, outside the attendance area should apply to the Options for Knowledge Program.  The deadline is typically mid-December for the following school year.  Acceptance is determined by a lottery through the Chicago Public Schools.  Talcott has a wait-list for some grades.

 

When time of day does school start and end?

Children enter the building at 8:00 a.m. and are dismissed at 1:45 p.m.  Playground supervision is provided before school  by 7:40 a.m. and afterschool till 2:00 p.m.

 

Do you have an afterschool program?

Yes, Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy, through a partnership with the Union League Boys and Girls Club, which is onsite, provide several programs.  Programs are for children in grades Kindergarten thru 8^th  from 1:45 p.m.-6:00 p.m.  Programs include academics, athletics, recreation, tutoring, chess club, book club, ballet folklorico, Merit School Band, choir, drama and dinner.  Some programs have age restrictions.

 

Does Talcott have Pre-Kindergarten?

Yes, Talcott has State Pre-K for all.  The program will be half-day  for the 2009-2010 school year.  There are additional application requirements for State Pre-K.

 

What  is a Museum Academy?

Talcott is partnered with the Field Museum, Art Institute and National Museum of Mexican Fine Arts to provide special learning opportunities to our children.  Students routinely visit the museums on learning trips and use these institutions as their classrooms.  Museums support inquiry-based learning and the Illinois state learning standards.

 

What are the Fine Arts at Talcott?

Talcott is a Fine Arts Magnet-Cluster School.  Talcott is one of a few Chicago Schools to  have three full-time fine arts teachers.  Students in grades Kindergarten thru 8^th  receive visual arts, music and theater.

 

What is Dual Language?

Dual language is a form of education in which students are taught literacy and content in English and Spanish.  At Talcott, the dual language program aims for bilingualism (the ability to speak fluently in two languages), biliteracy (the ability to read and write in two languages), academic achievement equal to that of students in non-dual language programs, and cross-cultural competence.

What other programs does Talcott have?

Talcott is fully departmentalized in Grades 6 through eight. That means in each academic area, math science, language arts and social studies, Talcott has  teachers with full content-area endorsements.  Students change classes by subject.  Talcott offers High School level algebra for eligible 8^th graders too.

 

Does Talcott have recess?

No.  However, learning occurs outside sometimes when the weather is nice.  Children have the opportunity to participate in athletics and recreation afterschool.

 

Why are Talcott’s teachers amazing?

Talcott’s teachers display a high commitment to professional development.  Nine teachers have achieved National Board Certification.  This is the most by any Elementary School in Chicago.  Many other teachers are working on National Board Certification.  Fifteen teachers are working on additional endorsements or a graduate degree.  Talcott’s staff is committed to supporting all students diverse learning needs.

 

How can parents be involved?

Parents are encouraged to volunteer or participate in committees such as the Parent Advisory Committee, Bilingual Advisory Committee and Local School Council.

Teachers provide opportunities for parent volunteerism too.

 

 

How can I get more information?

Please call the Main Office at 773 534-7130.  School applications are available.

©2008 Talcott Fine Arts and Museum Academy

Questions or Comments? Contact us with your feedback.