Dr. Jorge Prieto Math and Science Academy functions as a vital educational hub within the Belmont Cragin neighborhood of Chicago. Established as part of the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) District 299, this institution serves a diverse student population from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade. The school is recognized not only for its specialized focus on STEM disciplines—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—but also for its commitment to bilingual excellence and student leadership. Located at 2231 N. Central Ave, the academy represents a modern approach to urban education, blending rigorous academic standards with a supportive, community-focused environment.

What defines the educational mission of Prieto Academy?

The mission of Dr. Jorge Prieto Math and Science Academy centers on the development of "young scholars who actively inquire and participate in a changing global society." This is achieved through a three-pronged approach: academic rigor, social-emotional growth, and cultural inclusivity. As a designated "Dual Language and Leader in Me" school, the academy focuses on nurturing bilingual leaders. This dual emphasis ensures that students are not only proficient in two languages but also equipped with the interpersonal skills necessary to lead in professional and civic life.

The academy serves as a fitting memorial to the legacy of its namesake, focusing on community health and empowerment through education. By fostering an environment where inquiry is encouraged, the school prepares students for the transition to high school and eventually to collegiate environments, emphasizing the "Superstar Scholar" mindset across all grade levels.

The STEM Framework: Mathematics and Science Excellence

As a math and science academy, the curriculum at Prieto is designed to challenge students to think like practitioners in these fields. The school utilizes evidence-based programs that move beyond rote memorization toward deep, conceptual understanding.

Mathematics through Problem Solving

The academy implements Eureka Math, a curriculum known for its logical progression and focus on the "why" behind mathematical operations. Teachers utilize the "Teaching Math Through Problem Solving" methodology. In practice, this means students spend less time on repetitive drills and more time grappling with complex, real-world problems. For example, in an 8th-grade classroom, students might explore algebraic concepts not just through equations, but by modeling physical phenomena. This approach builds resilience and critical thinking, as students must defend their solutions and understand multiple pathways to an answer.

The Skyline Science Curriculum

Science instruction at Prieto follows the Skyline Science curriculum, which aligns with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The focus is on scientific inquiry—encouraging students to observe, hypothesize, experiment, and conclude. The facility itself supports this mission with dedicated, high-specification science classrooms. Middle school scholars engage in life sciences, physical sciences, and earth sciences, often utilizing digital tools and lab equipment that mirror what they will encounter in advanced high school settings.

Bilingual Excellence and the Dual Language Program

One of the most distinctive features of Dr. Jorge Prieto Math and Science Academy is its Dual Language program. This program is designed to address a common challenge in bilingual education: the loss of native language proficiency as students transition to English-only instruction.

The academy’s team recognized that for bilingual scholars, maintaining Spanish is essential for cognitive development, family communication, and future career competitiveness. The program aims to graduate students who are biliterate—capable of reading, writing, and speaking fluently in both English and Spanish.

To enhance this, the school has integrated community-driven prototypes where parents participate in the instructional culture. By inviting Spanish-speaking parents to lead cultural and language lessons, the school bridges the gap between home and classroom, ensuring that the Spanish language is valued as a prestigious academic asset rather than just a transitional tool.

Implementing the Leader in Me Philosophy

Beyond academics, Prieto Academy is a "Leader in Me" school. This framework, based on Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, is integrated into the daily fabric of school life. The goal is to empower students with the leadership and life skills needed to thrive in the 21st century.

At Prieto, leadership is not reserved for a select few; it is seen as a potential within every student. Scholars learn to:

  • Be Proactive: Taking responsibility for their actions and education.
  • Begin with the End in Mind: Setting clear academic and personal goals.
  • Put First Things First: Prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively.
  • Think Win-Win: Seeking mutually beneficial solutions in social conflicts.

This culture is visible in the "Principal’s Corner" and various student-led initiatives, where scholars are encouraged to take ownership of school culture and community service projects.

Architectural Innovation and Sustainability

The physical environment of Dr. Jorge Prieto Math and Science Academy is a testament to the belief that school design impacts learning outcomes. Opened in 2009, the 106,000-square-foot facility was designed by STL Architects as a three-story, L-shaped prototypical school.

LEED Silver Certification

The building was constructed with a strong emphasis on sustainability, achieving LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification. Key sustainable features include:

  • Green Roof: Approximately 25% of the roof is covered in vegetation, which helps manage stormwater runoff, provides insulation, and reduces the urban heat island effect.
  • Natural Lighting: The design maximizes natural light in classrooms, which has been shown to improve student mood and concentration.
  • Specialized Facilities: The building includes dedicated spaces for art, music, and computer science, alongside a modern library and a gymnasium designed to serve both the school and the community.

The school is also strategically located adjacent to Hanson Stadium, providing students with access to significant athletic facilities, and features parking for over 220 vehicles to accommodate staff and community events.

Teacher Expertise and the Human Element

The strength of Prieto Academy lies heavily in its faculty. Many teachers at the academy are not only subject matter experts but also deeply invested in the Chicago community. The diverse backgrounds of the staff bring a wealth of "real-world" experience into the classroom.

For instance, the science department features educators with advanced fellowships, such as those from Michigan State University focusing on STEM leadership. These teachers bring cutting-edge pedagogical techniques to their middle school scholars. Similarly, the English Language Arts (ELA) and Social Studies teachers often hold multiple endorsements in bilingual education and reading, allowing them to provide a multi-disciplinary approach to literacy.

Teachers at Prieto are also active in seeking external support for their students. The faculty has successfully funded nearly 200 projects through platforms like DonorsChoose, bringing additional resources like specialized lab kits, classroom libraries, and technology directly to the students. This proactive stance demonstrates a commitment to equity and excellence that defines the professional culture at the academy.

Extracurricular and Summer Programs

Learning at Prieto Academy extends beyond the standard school year. The school has historically offered programs such as the LSA summer camps. these camps focus on high-interest areas including:

  • Engineering and Flight: Introducing students to the principles of aerodynamics and structural design.
  • Biology: Exploring local ecosystems and laboratory techniques.
  • Arts and Math Integration: Showing how mathematical patterns manifest in visual and performing arts.

These programs provide a safe and enriching environment for students to explore interests that may lead to future careers in STEM fields.

Summary: The Value of a Prieto Education

Dr. Jorge Prieto Math and Science Academy represents a successful model of how a neighborhood school can provide specialized, high-quality instruction tailored to its community's needs. By combining a rigorous STEM curriculum with a robust Dual Language program and a leadership-focused culture, the school prepares its scholars for more than just the next grade level—it prepares them for a global society.

The sustainable, state-of-the-art facility provides the physical infrastructure necessary for modern learning, while the dedicated faculty provides the intellectual and emotional support students need to succeed. For families in the Belmont Cragin area, Prieto Academy offers a comprehensive educational experience that honors cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of academic achievement.

FAQ about Dr. Jorge Prieto Math and Science Academy

What grades does Dr. Jorge Prieto Math and Science Academy serve? The academy serves students from Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) through 8th grade.

Is the school a public or charter school? It is a public school within the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) district (District 299).

What is the "Leader in Me" program? It is a whole-school transformation model that empowers students with leadership and life skills based on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

How does the Dual Language program work? The program provides instruction in both English and Spanish, aiming to help students become fully biliterate and bilingual while maintaining their cultural identity.

What are the school's facilities like? The school is a LEED Silver-certified building featuring specialized science labs, art and music rooms, a green roof, a library, and a gymnasium.

How can parents get involved? Prieto encourages active parent participation through the Local School Council (LSC) and specific classroom initiatives where parents can share their cultural strengths and expertise.