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[-]Chicago moms - moving to Chicago from NYC at the end of August. Would like to send my dc to Ogden elementary. Would you be able to tell me in what area I need to look for an apt. to be zoned for this school? Thank you very much.
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On the left hand side is the link to the attendance area/neighborhood boundary. Pretty much the zone includes Streeterville and River North but you should check each address of buildings you're looking at to make sure they are in the Ogden neighborhood.
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OR: you can use this site http://schoollocator.cps.k12.il.us/ to check each indiviual address. After you hit accept on the next page lower left is a place to type in address and find you neighborhood/home school. I highly recommend checking this for every address and if you're close to signing a lease/contract call cps and re: verify the neighborhood school for you address as the boundaries do change and the cps websites are not always up to date.
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Why do you keep posting this over and over? You've been at it for weeks and people have helped you. Now do some work on the issue yourself.
[ Reply | More ]Thank you, but there may be more than one person moving to Chicago. This said, I had posted 3 months ago, when I still had no idea about schools. This is the only reason I posted again today. And I am doing research by myself, I have joined the npn parents org. but still needed advice on zoning. Apologies if my posts have bothered you.
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[-]Chicago moms - Moving to Chicago at the end of the summer. I know very little about the city, but would like to send dc to Ogden elementary. Would you be able to tell me in what area I need to look for an apartment? I know rents are less than in NYC, but do you think I may be able to find something in the $2000 range? Thanks a lot for any feedback
7 replies [ Reply | Watch | MoreIf you don't need fancy, look at 55 West Chestnut. It's an uncharming, very basic, and affordable high rise, parking in a garage below (get on a waiting list). Laundry in the basement, window unit ACs. I think it is Ogden district but triple check. Some high up apartments have views of the lake, but siren sounds really carry. Address may technically be gold coast, but there's an SRO hotel nearby, Chicago Ave is a major east-west, red line train very close. Newberry library also close, nice small park. Might be a good spot to live for a year while you figure out where you want to be. http://www.draperandkramer.com/gold_coast.php
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[-]If I make approximately $5000 per month, would I be able to make a decent living in Chicago? Single mom with one dc. Thank you. Also which neighborhoods should I consider to rent an apartment. May be moving by August...
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Yes you can. Neighborhoods are going to depend on how / where you are commuting and schools. I assume you will want public schools. The Chicago school scene is not nearly as insane as NYC in that there are some good public options, but you need to make sure you are moving within the neighborhood boundaries of the school you want.
[ Reply | More ]Thank you. Yes, I would be looking at public schools possibly (dc will be in elementary school) I have been looking at a map and perhaps I should be looking at the neighborhoods around magnificent mile? (where office will be) in NY I live currently on Upper East side, easy to walk to a lot of places, safe, stores around... was hoping to find a similar arrangement. Thanks again.
[ Reply | More ]You are going to have a harder time with walkability than in Manhattan. I would suggest trying apartments around Nettlehorst Elementary in Lakeview (you will have good bus options for Mag Mile, and good el and bus options for the loop), and there are grocery stores, bars, restaurants, the lake, etc. in easy walking distance. Another alternative is Blaine Elementary or Bell, although these areas are less walkable and public transportation is going to be more difficult. I would strongly recommend getting a zipcar membership if you have a driver's license to take care of weekly errands. Chicagoreader.com can give you a good idea of apartment options. The zip code you will want for Nettlehorst is 60657, but you'll need to confirm you are w...
[ Reply | More ]I think the Gold Coast and Old Town have a bunch of really outstanding magnet schools. You'd be near Lincoln Park Zoo and Lake Michigan (the lakefront is spectacular in spring-fall (winter sucks)). I used to live there, but when I was single. It's less expensive than NYC, but the quality of apartments/architecture is pretty great.
[ Reply | More ]lincoln park has at least one great elementary (can't remember name) and is just north of that part of michigan. very short bus ride. i don't know the public schools in gold coast area, but you can find reasonable rentals there. right now there are a lot of people looking to rent condos they can't sell. also, in re listing, there's some overlap between what's called gold coast, and what's river north. there are nice buildings along clark and dearborn, just north of chicago avenue. not needing a garage will save you money.
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They have a site similar to UB but you pay a small fee. Wish that i could remember the name. It is what you need-a wealth of info. It will come to me and I will post back.
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Excuse me? I beg to differ. I make just over that before taxes, am a single mom w/ 1 dc and believe me w/ car payment, rent, childcare we are NOT living very, very, very well. You can live like that on 5k monthly if you are a 20 something single with no debt, that' must be what you are.
[ Reply | More ]I respect your viewpoint. My family and I make about 3000 after taxes and live well. But maybe that is just our own perspective? We have a small condo, a car, eat out once in a while and go to all the free things city life has to offer. We don't have any college debt and we are frugal. But it feels like we are living very well. If we made 5000 before taxes, making it more like 4000 after, it would feel, to us, like we were rich. I should make sure next time I indicate that my family feels like we are living well on what we make instead of blanket statements. Everyone has different ideas of what "well" is. Best to you!
[ Reply | More ]Wow, I'd just like to know how you do it. Me: 1500 rent, 60 electric, phone 65, cable 35, internet 30, child care anytime I step out of the house alone-$10 an hour, afterschool care at school 250 a month (cheap!)summer day camps 2k minimum (the cheapest!)car 314, car insurance 105, food 250 at least, student loan debt 350 After taxes and health insurance deductions take home pay is about 4200 a month No trips, run down furniture and 10 year old computer and TV.I guess child care is the difference.
[ Reply | More ]Just coming back to you. If you moved to a different neighborhood, you can find 2 bedroom apartments in Chicago in some neighborhoods for around a 1000. We live in north edgewater in a small 2 bed for that price. After school care can be had at the park district for about 150 for 3 months, a big savings there, as well as their summer camps: 6 weeks for under $400. That'd make some huge savings for you.
[ Reply | More ]Our budget: 1000 a month for a small 2 bedroom, our utilities are about the same as you, after school care $50 a month through park district, $0 student debt, car and car insurance together $300, food is a biggie for us $500 a month. Don't get me wrong, we count pennies like crazy, but we also use all the free and cheap things the city has to offer. $1500 in rent (for what I assume is a 2 bedroom) is a lot. You are way overpaying for rent and aftercare and summer camp. I hope your child's father is helping you out! Money is such a stressful thing I think.
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If you want to come close to your NYC experience, the neighborhoods pps have mentioned. If you want to economize, but still have quality of life, go further North to Andersonville or Edgewater. Lower rents, still can walk to places (including the beach,and restaurants) but it's not going to be as walkable as you are used to.
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try south loop too - that has a good neighborhood school. while there are great magnets in lakeview/lincoln park/old town, your child will have to apply via lottery and there is no guarantee that he/she will get into that school. whereas neighborhood your child is guaranteed a spot.
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[-]Chicago moms: have a dc who will go to first grade and should be moving to Chicago mid August... is Ogden a decent public school? I am looking to rent an apt near loop (Gold Coast or other neighborhood close by) don't know Chicago, but was told that would be the best option if I'm used to living in Manhattan and do not drive. Any advice welcome. Thank you
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[-]Chicago Moms: Anyone heard anything about Cardinal Bernardin Early Childhood Center? Was thinking of signing up for their parent/infant class but cannot find a lot of info on it.
4 replies [ Reply | Watch | MoreNot sure what you are looking for that isn't on their site (http://www.cbecc.org/). It is Montessori-based and people say they like it. We looked at it for preschool, but I thought the school seemed a little joyless at the tour. That may be my personal bias against Montessori, though.
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[-]What is the cost per hour of a babysitter in Chicago? Thank you.
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Thank you. What is the best way of finding a decent person, only through word of mouth or are there specific sites?
[ Reply | More ]I used a service called sittersavvy. It's $45 but she screens everyone and sends you unlimited resumes. I signed up once and have been using the same sitters the whole time. I know a lot of people who use sittercity or neighborhood parents network for sitters. Word of mouth is good if the parents are willing to "share." I've actually asked some friends for recs and they didn't provide.
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[-]Moving to Chicago in 2 months and clueless about the city... I have one dc who will be in first grade, and my office will be on Michigan Avenue. I was wondering if any mom could offer suggestions for neighborhoods - I am looking to rent. Also schools... or are there any guides to the city you would suggest buying? Thank you. P.S. moving from New York city.
17 replies [ Reply | Watch | MoreYou may want to consider joining the Neighborhood Parents Network. It's a similar resource to UB and it provides a school resource guide. We are not of elementary school-age yet, but you should look for neighborhood schools. I've heard good things about Blaine (neighborhood: Lakeview), Bell (Lincoln Square), Burley (also Lakeview) and Ogden (Gold Cost).
[ Reply | More ]I second the NPN recommendation. You have tons of rental options in the city. The West Loop and the South Loop are both good options with good public schools. And your commute to work would be very quick.
[ Reply | More ]OP- and are these 2 neighborhoods you mention nice during weekends also? I just would not want to end up in a place where it
[ Reply | More ]^^is mainly offices, business... was told gold coast is this sort of place and therefore may not be good with a 6yo dc. But not driving I do need to be close enough to work... Thanks
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West Loop has great parks and lots of restaurants. It is slightly industrial so it slows down a bit. The school is Skinner West. And a good new private there is Intercultural Montessori (dual language - Spanish, Japanese or Mandarin). South Loop is right on the lake, which is great. It is walking distance to he lakefront, Miracle Mile (aka Michigan), Shedd Aquarium, Grant Park, Art Institute, etc. There are plenty of luxury rentals. Dearborn Park is a great very family friendly spot in the South Loop. Both West Loop and South Loop are great. If you don't mind a bit of a commute from up North, people love Lincoln Park as well. It is more of a neighborhood feel. NPN can give you the lowdown on schools, and the previous poster listed a good sh...
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Another vote for Neighborhood Parents Network. It has been around for 30 years, has an on-line searchable directory to preschoolers and elementary schools. Super discussion board and you'll save yourself a lot of stress and running around if you post this question there. Good luck! Chicago is a wonderful city with so much to offer.
[ Reply | More ]Chicago has a fantastic public transportation system. Much cleaner and safer than NYC. We live in Lincoln Park and can be in the Loop within 30 minutes no problem. Downtown/Loop/Gold Coast are great, but not much of a community for an elementary school age child. For rental try: The Apartment People.
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Just got an email: The NPN website has been down most of today and is unfortunately still not available. It seems much of the Internet is struggling today due to widespread outage problems. We're working with our upstream providers to resolve this so we can be back online as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience.
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[-]Advice Please. We are moving to Chicago at the end of the summer from Manhattan. What is the most family-friendly area? I've heard Wrigleyville, but not sure. We will have a Kindergartner, a 3 year old and a newborn. We currently live on the Upper West Side. Also - what is the school situation like? Can you go to public? Or are only the privates good? What are the most popular elementary schools in the city? Does everyone have a car? We'd love an area with lots of kids and the ability to walk most places. Thanks in advance!
2 replies [ Reply | Watch | MoreJoin npnparents.org and post your question on the discussion board. Some publics are good, some are definitely not. Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Wrigleyville, Bucktown, Lincoln Square, Andersonville (among others) are all family friendly. Most people have a car, depending on where you live -- street parking is relatively easy to find, though a little harder in Lincoln Park.
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[-]I'm a soon to be single Mom in Chicago and am nervous about being able to afford child care. I can't send my child to one of those shady looking daycare centers without worrying that she will be neglected. Any suggestions ?
20 replies [ Reply | Watch | More"Soon to be single" as in you're single and pregnant? Or "soon to be single" as in you're getting divorced?
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NP: Any family in the area? Would you qualify for a childcare subsidy--how much do you make? And this is a long shot, but sometimes if you are a student or work at a university (usually a city/state university), you can get very inexpensive, quality daycare as a perk. Any chance this would be an option?
[ Reply | More ]No family in the area. I make 30000.00 annual. I think I would qualify for a childcare subsidy, how do I apply ? Do you have any more information ? I'm not a student nor do I work at a University. I'm a receptionist at a production company. I'll take any and all options that are available.
[ Reply | More ]I'm sorry, but I don't think you will qualify. I had db #1 when I was a grad student making 23K and I didn't qualify! You usually have to be under the poverty line, which is realllllly low. How pregnant are you? Could you apply for an admin post at a University with a good subsidized daycare, and just hope for the best--couldn't hurt! I think you are going to need to move to be by family (if they are supportive) or ask the dad to help you (which you should do no matter what). I am sorry there are no good answers. I used a part-time nanny, and my dh (who was also a student) cared for db during the day the rest of the time.
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Look and look until you find a good place. What is your budget? You definitely shouldn't send her to a place that you do not feel good about. If you can't afford a good center daycare or a nanny, you might look into a registered home daycare--we had our son in one of these (it was actually more than comparable center daycares, but many of them aren't), there were two teachers with masters in education, and it was fantastic. At work, many of my colleagues use a similar place. Ask all of your friends what they use, and zero in on the places that people rave about.
[ Reply | More ]See, here's where proper punctuation would really help. There's a big difference between "soon-to-be single-mom" and "soon-to-be-single mom."
[ Reply | More ]Which neighborhood do you live in? Home daycare costs are very specific to the area you live in. Always go with a licensed provider. You may qualify for government help to pay for costs of child care. You need to look for a provider who accepts these payments. - signed a home daycare owner in chicago
[ Reply | More ]I live in Andersonville. I'm applying for government help, how will I know which provider accepts these payments ? The obvious is to call and ask, thinking there may be a way to eliminate wasting time. Thanks!
[ Reply | More ]There might be some options for you if you are willing to travel a bit. It's going to be realllly tight on 30k that you mentioned above. Do you drive? You might look in uptown, or albany park. Andersonville and Lincoln Square have some home daycares, but they are typically 250 - 400 dollars a week for full time care. I believe that the program is called Action for kids? Here is the link to their program http://www.actforchildren.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Home You may need to call DCFS and ask for a list, or perhaps that website has a way to find providers that take it.
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[-]One more error trying to log onto NPN and I'm asking for my money back.
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[-]Chicago moms - have you heard of the restaurant MK Chicago? Thoughts for a fancy couple?
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[-]Chicago Moms: Private schools. British or Catherine Cook? Just looking for things to influence me either way, as we are trying to decide which one to send our ds to for preschool. I know already about the flat tuition vs fundraising aspect... looking for specific exp with teachers, classroom size, etc. We are also concerned about high tech education at CC. Is this an issue? Any and all feedback is really appreciated thx!
11 replies [ Reply | Watch | MoreMy child is not of school age, but I know many parents who are thrilled with both schools. The curriculum is different at British school because it's not a typical American curriculum. I'm sorry I cant be more helpful, but from what I do know, they are both terrific schools. Nice to see another Chicago mom here
[ Reply | More ]Nice to see you too ;). Thx for your feedback. We only applied to three schools and we were shocked to get into all of them (not Parker or Latin). At first we were really happy about the choices we didn't think we'd have, but now, we're wondering which one to choose! I'm glad to know that you have heard good things about both. Thanks for your reply!
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We are thrilled with British. We started in nursery with my older DD 4 years ago, and initially chose the school because she was starting to read, and because of the differentiation they will support that. She has thrived, loves school to the point of crying at the begining of summer vacation. Something they do makes these kids LOVE school and really love to learn. My younger DD started this year - completely different child. Just wants to sing and play and dress up. So that is what she does, and the teacher tells us she is her own child and to let her learn how she needs to learn. Teachers are amazing ( they pay all housing costs and are able to attract top UK teachers) Class size is 18-20 with 2 teachers. Specials are great - mus...
[ Reply | More ]Thank you SO much!! Sorry the last part of your message was cut off. I really am happy to hear this because I am leaning toward BSC. I truly appreciate the time you took to answer my question. The part about paying for housing really explains a lot. Thanks!!
[ Reply | More ]Sorry I got cut off! Was going to say that they have music ( music program is excellent, my first grader is reading music), PE and dance and French twice a week. Other parents are down to earth and friendly. We have really loved being there. Good luck with your decision! ( and remember that everyone does end up happy where they end up!)
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Another happy BSC parent. For us it was about the differentiation, which is real and pretty amazing. All of the teachers in a given stage ( i.e. preschool is a stage, K and 1st is a stage) meet weekly with the head of the lower school to discuss every child and review his/her work. They determine an individual plan for that child for the week including what they should read ( based on level and interest), group projects, appropriate homework ( including none if they think that child has had enough and needs a break). I think this is why the kids are all so engaged and are all achieving at such a high level. Really think there is something special here.
[ Reply | More ]Your comment is also very helpful! I'm glad that you and the former poster both pointed out the differentiation aspect. This is a great perk and it certainly isn't happening at the other schools (at least not that I'm aware of). We looked at a smaller school and they really pile on the homework (no matter the level or capability). This really concerned me, so thank you!!
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We faced the same decision and chose British School and are thrilled with the choice. It clearly was the right decision for us. The differentiation was a huge consideration. They really do a phenomenal job working with each child at their level for each subject (and it can differ across subjects), and also helping each child learn in the way that suits them best (visual learners, hands-on/tactile learners, oral learners, etc.). The feedback is extremely comprehensive - there are 7 parent/teacher conferences per year (you don't need to sign up, but nice to have the option), plus extensive written narrative reports twice a year. The teachers are truly amazing - warm, smart, nurturing . . . and they really do take the time to get to know ...
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[-]My second grader received in school suspension today for telling another student he was going to shoot him......I am mortified and scared out of my mind....help me please
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Your kid's school sucks. He's 7/8 years old! That's what they say. I mean, unless your kid actually has a gun and intends to shoot this kid, it's ridiculous.
[ Reply | More ]I think it's an appropriate response to teach him what is and what is not acceptable behavior. On your part, I'd be mortified but not scared out of my mind. It's TALK. He's an 8 year old boy. Teach him, but don't expect that he's really going to need to be institutionalized at this point.
[ Reply | More ]Thank you ....I am overreacting and am glad for the feedback-that's why I posted-but he's such a sweet boy (I know-Charlie Manson's mother said the same thing) that I'm wondering what is going on at school to make him have such violent outbursts....he jumps in our bed most nights....sometimes interrupting "things" ;)
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Cut back on the TV and the video games. This is obviously the parent's fault. But the school did over-react. Still, such are the times. Deal with it at home. I doubt it's a serious problem, it hardly ever is.
[ Reply | More ]NP: I don't think it's true that it is obviously the parent's fault. I used to know a kid who was obsessed with guns and warplay etc. He knew entire plots of violent movies and would go over them, blow by blow. It turned out that he had no tv in his home at all--had never seen these movies--and would just grill his friends for details and commit them to memory. Little boys pick up on our society's obsession with violence simply by leaving the house.
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4th grader brought a knife to school & threatened to use it. was finally kicked out after parents complained to administration (private school). there is a big differnce - little kids talk about cops & robbers etc - doesnt mean they are a threat. you r administration overreacted. public or private? (just curious)
[ Reply | More ]Bernadette? Is that you? Guess the hugs and "time in" isn't working anymore. Montessori isn't all its cracked up to be.
[ Reply | More ]With apologiues for the delayed response: I understand being mortified about the suspension, but I would not assume there is violent intent behind his language. It is alarming to hear a child speak this way, but after all, sometimes they are just repeating what they hear, or trying to gain control of their environment, or engaging in their little battles between good and evil. It is often metaphorical and not literal. All the same, you should talk to him about what shooting really means, the repercussions, the finality of a shooting death, etc. My 3-year-old told my 5-year-old recently that he was going to kill him when disputing ownership of a balloon. It was shocking, but moments later they were having a tea party with Curious Georg...
[ Reply | More ]What led your child to say this? If he is being mercilessly taunted and no adults are getting involved - things can take a very ugly turn. Not sure if this is your son's situation, but intense bullying can be very dangerous for the child being bullied AND for those who bully. I'd investigate thoroughly if this were my child.
[ Reply | More ]Wasn't concerned until you mentioned 'violent outbursts' Does he often get very angry and threaten violence? If his comment was made as part of play, I wouldn't be concerned, if he was angry at the classmate, then yes, I'd be concerned. Also don't understand your segue into the bit about jumping into your bed, interrupting things. Does he come into your bed every night? That's too much for a boy this age and there may be some things you need to explore with a therapist. As for interrupting 'things', that's why doors have locks.
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[-]Anyone else applying to privates in Chicago this year (JK 2011 entrance)? Would love to hear what other people are going through. We applied to 5 and are almost done. Yay!
6 replies [ Reply | Watch | MoreI live in chicago, north shore and thank god we have great great preschools and don't have to pay the big bucks. will be saving that for college.You must be shooting for private k-12, Parker or Latin. We will be going to New Trier. All set! Unless job transfer and then we start all over.
[ Reply | More ]Why worried? They are certainly more diverse than 25 years ago.I know they take scholarship kids,don't know how many.A friend's DB goes to Latin, friend is old money but totally unpretentious and SHE'S intimidated! Hey, where we live it can be intimidating also. Just find someone like yourself,I'm sure you will, and don't let it throw you. Would the commute be that bad? My DH drives sometimes, but usually takes Metro not too bad. I would call them good schools, not amazing. Nothing can beat the Cornflake program at Winnetka community House, that's amazing. and we're talking a pittance. Good luck, the kids do fine, wherever, we weigh everything waaaay to much.
[ Reply | More ]I went to Latin and send my kids to british school. Would never send my kids there, there is so much entitlement ( and quite frankly, the lower school is more about maintaining the donor base than anything else. The education really only gets good in middle school/high school.
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