
October 19, 2022
At Distinctive Schools, we believe every student deserves a safe space for learning and self-expression. In October, we recognize National Bullying Prevention Month to highlight t...

October 6, 2022
CICS West Belden-
Thank you for taking the time to complete the YouthTruth Family Survey! Your responses will guide our efforts in creating positive and joyful learning environ...

September 19, 2022
At Distinctive Schools, we view your mental health and well-being as a priority for your success at our schools. In support of this, we have partnered with Care Solace and investe...


August 25, 2022
Did you see us on ABC 7 this week?
Diego Nuñez, Community School Coordinator and Colleen Collins, Principal of CICS West Belden were interviewed this week by ABC 7 ne...

August 17, 2022
Attention Distinctive families! Reminder that we offer FREE breakfast for every student, every day. School breakfast has many benefits including helping students stay full and foc...

August 3, 2022
Did you know that August is National Wellness Month? Check out this great article from CareSolace about incorporating wellness into your back-to-school routine! CareSolace says:...

July 1, 2022
At CICS West Belden, we build joyful classrooms, develop a sense of belonging, and provide growth opportunities for our students and staff alike. CICS West Belden is an amazing pl...

June 20, 2022
Summer is a wonderful time for students to continue their education at home by looking at the world through a lens of learning! We are excited to announce this year’s Anytime, Any...

June 20, 2022
Distinctive Schools is closed today in honor of Juneteenth. As an organization, we will honor the importance of this day in American history. In solidarity with our staff, familie...

June 17, 2022
Summer is just around the corner! As you start planning your summer activities, remember to allow yourself time to rest, restore, and reconnect.
Choose the outdoors. Spending ...

June 16, 2022
CONGRATULATIONS to all our 8th grade graduates! We are so proud of how far you have come in your educational journey and so excited to see the incredible things you will do next. ...

June 15, 2022
We have exciting news to share – we are making another incredible investment in our Distinctive family! Our HR/Talent and Finance team, with support and advocacy from our seni...

June 13, 2022
Have you seen DISTINCTIVE SCHOOLS on the CTA? Our bus ads are rolling, and there are posters on platforms! Our staff and families have had so much fun spotting DS all around Chica...

June 13, 2022
This spring, CICS West Belden was one of the recipients of a grant from the Lollapalooza Arts Education Fund ! Led by music teacher Ms. Chopp, this grant allowed for an incredible...

June 9, 2022
CICS West Belden celebrates TWENTY YEARS of operation this year! CICS West Belden is a neighborhood school that many call home and that is exactly what it is to our students, fami...

June 1, 2022
CICS West Belden Families-
This is a reminder that Right At School summer camp registration will open tonight at 6pm CST! The following link will not be active until 6:00pm, bu...

May 12, 2022
The month of May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Check out this article from out partners at Care Solace to learn more: In the month of Ma...

May 3, 2022
This is a very special week for all of us at Distinctive Schools, a favorite time to celebrate you during TEACHER & STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK! We are endlessly grateful our amazing ...
April 8, 2022
Spring break is here! We hope you have a wonderful break, and take some time to rest and recharge. Take a look at this short video from our partners at The Chicago Department o...