Cambridge Lakes Charter School (CLCS) offers a personalized, hands-on education for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. From play-based early learning to interdisciplinary, experiential instruction, CLCS nurtures creativity, communication, and curiosity. With small class sizes and a focus on communication arts and STEAM, students receive the individual support they need to thrive academically and socially
What is a Charter School?
Charter schools offer families a choice in their children's education, operating independently of traditional public school district boundaries and assignments. Unlike district schools, charter schools must adhere to specific terms to maintain good standing but enjoy greater flexibility in internal operations and decision-making.
Our Unique Educational Programs and School Features
We are a K-12 tuition-free public school of choice for students inside the District 300 boundary. We offer an extended academic day, with school hours from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. With small classroom sizes, our educators are committed to helping every student grow and achieve their individual goals.
As part of our Kindergarten programming, incoming Kindergarten students will be assessed during the Summer Readiness Camp (KRC). This assessment is important for determining student placement and designing an enriching Kindergarten program, thereby ensuring the best possible start to their academic journey here at CLCS. This comprehensive, week-long camp is specifically developed to foster confidence and engagement, thereby preparing your child for a successful and positive start into their educational journey.
In addition to the foundational core curriculum, students engage with a diverse spectrum of specialized coursework, which encompasses Physical Education, Visual Arts, Music, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), and Spanish language acquisition. To further enhance their scholastic experience, middle school students are afforded the opportunity to select from a range of elective offerings, such as Digital Media, Business Marketing, and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
Our Academic Pathways
Grades K–8: Full In-Person Learning
Grades 9–12: Cambridge Lakes Academy (Blended E-Learning)
Please note: All high school students participate in our Cambridge Lakes Academy blended model, combining virtual instruction with in-person class time.
Seeking opportunities to enhance your academic experience? We offer a variety of enriching avenues for involvement.
Explore, Create, and Contribute:
Field Trips: Participate in educational excursions that extend learning beyond the classroom.
Fairs: Showcase academic and artistic endeavors in the annual Science Fair and Art Fair.
Windows on Learning: Present and share knowledge acquired on a specific subject with the school community.
Fundraisers: Support the school's objectives and facilitate the achievement of institutional goals.
School Dances: Attend organized social events for recreation and peer interaction.
Develop Leadership and Interests:
Student Council: Assume a leadership position to influence and improve school governance and student life.
Band and Choir: Join the music program to collaborate in vocal and instrumental performance.
Science Olympiad: Engage in challenging team competitions focused on problem-solving in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Anime Club: Explore Japanese animation and popular culture with fellow enthusiasts.
Athletics: Seventh and 8th-grade students are able to participate in a variety of sports (Volleyball, Cross Country, Soccer, Basketball, Cheerleading, Track, and more) throughout the year as part of the Mid-Northern Conference which consists of 11 teams. The Cross Country and Track teams both are a part of the Illinois Elementary School Association and provide qualifying athletes postseason opportunities to run at Sectional and State meets. Fifth and 6th-grade students are able to compete in a variety of sports with other schools.
Establish a New Club: Should an existing option not align with your interests, you are encouraged to collaborate with peers to propose and launch a new organization based on your shared pursuits. We strongly encourage your participation.
Testing and Assessments
Student Learning and Assessment
We utilize the iReady Assessment for students in grades K-8 for both mathematics and reading, allowing us to effectively monitor academic growth. Additionally, students in grades 3 through 8 participate in the mandated state tests, the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR) and the Illinois Science Assessment (ISA).
Personalized Learning
Our educational approach is founded on mastery-based learning, prioritizing the continuous growth of every student across all subject areas.
Personalized Learning Plans (PLPs): A unique PLP is developed and regularly reviewed for each student. This plan establishes specific academic goals for the year.
QUAD: Every day, a dedicated 25-minute session called QUAD—representing Questioning, Understanding, Assess & Analyze, and Discovery—is held. QUAD time facilitates one-on-one meetings with a student's QUAD mentor, group Social Emotional Learning (SEL) activities, progress monitoring, and both small and large group extension and enrichment activities.
Accelerated Opportunities
The Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) is a self-paced, individualized virtual program that serves as an alternative track for high-performing students. ALP students in grades 3–8 have access to gifted and talented courses. Eligibility for these courses requires a qualifying MAP score and a teacher recommendation.
Parent Involvement and Volunteering Opportunities
Families have various opportunities to get involved at school. You can join your student on field trips and participate in selected classroom events. We also welcome volunteers for lunchroom supervision, traffic duty during drop-off and pick-up, library assistance, and other areas.
Additionally, families are encouraged to attend school-wide events like the Book Fair, Harvest Festival, and Fun Fair.
Parents interested in helping to plan and coordinate fundraising events are strongly encouraged to join the Coyote Parent Council (CPC). The CPC is a parent-run organization dedicated to uniting our school community to support our students, teachers, and families.
