Learning That Engages Mind and Spirit
Faith and reason are inseparable parts of a well-rounded education at Northside Catholic Academy. Our curriculum integrates thoughtful academic inquiry with faith, inviting students to explore the created world with wonder, awe, and curiosity. From Preschool through 8th Grade, students are challenged to think critically, solve problems, and grow into confident, capable learners—developing a genuine love of learning in a supportive, faith-centered environment.
Learning by Doing
Across all grade levels, NCA emphasizes experiential and project-based learning. Through our new, state-of-the-art Wildcat Workshop, STEM challenges, service projects, and field trips throughout Chicago, students apply what they learn in meaningful, real-world contexts.
Our Technology, Art, Music, and Physical Education programs enrich the core curriculum while fostering creativity, collaboration, and cognitive growth from preschool through middle school. Throughout the year, students participate in concerts, visual shows, presentations, and—in 8th grade—a class play based on a work by Shakespeare.
Academic Outcomes that Matter
NCA students consistently demonstrate strong academic performance.
- 90% of students test proficient or above grade level in reading
- More than 80% test proficient or above grade level in math
Our graduates go on to attend a wide range of Chicago’s top high schools — selective enrollment, Catholic, and independent — well prepared academically and personally.
Personal Technology Policy
NCA is adopting a tiered approach to personal technology at school this year:
- Pre-K: No screens
- K–5: Low Tech
- 6–8: Discerning Tech
Under this policy, cell phones and smart watches of any kind may not be on a student's person during the school day or at school events, including dances. Phones and watches may be kept, powered off, in a student's backpack or locker. Students who prefer not to keep a device in their backpack or locker may turn it in each morning to the front office, where it will be kept locked up until dismissal. We appreciate your partnership as we make this adjustment together.
Stay in touch during the day
Every classroom is equipped with a phone, and students who need to reach a parent during the school day can use a classroom phone or the front office phone. Parents can also reach their child at any time by calling the front office — we will always get a message to your student.
Why we're doing this
This shift reflects a growing nationwide trend among schools. Several studies now show that simply having a phone within reach — even powered off and even if a student isn't actively using it — measurably reduces focus and attention. As educators, one of our core jobs is to help students build their capacity for sustained attention, and we believe removing phones from students' hands and pockets during the school day is an important step toward that goal.