Academic Policies and Practices

Academic Excellence and Curriculum

At Thorp, we believe every student possesses unique gifts and talents. While the majority of our student body performs well above grade level, we offer specialized groupings to ensure every learner is appropriately challenged:

• Comprehensive Gifted Program: Typically serves students scoring above the 90th percentile on national standardized tests.

• Accelerated Program: Designed for students scoring above the 80th percentile.

• General Program: Tailored for students scoring above the 40th percentile.

Regardless of placement, our focus remains on meaningful, project-based learning and complex problem-solving. We view test scores as helpful benchmarks against national norms, but they are just one part of our commitment to academic growth. Student small groups may be based on ability or other strategies to ensure students are challenged at their academic level. Students are arranged in differentiated instructional groups for all subjects. Teacher-led groups will challenge students with activities where the teacher's guidance is necessary to extend and challenge student learning. Student-led groups will focus on the Roles, Rules, and Rubrics necessary for students to direct their own learning through inquiry-based learning and dialog. Independent groups focus on the individual progress of each student and may be aided by targeted instruction tailored to each student's instructional level. 

Curriculum at a Glance

We utilize high-quality, research-backed materials to foster a love of learning:

The Arts and Global Literacy

Our "Special Arts" programs are integral to a well-rounded education. Students participate in Music, Art, Library/Technology, Spanish, Health, and Physical Education.

A cornerstone of the Thorp experience is our Spanish program. Reflecting the diversity of Chicago, we provide Spanish instruction twice weekly to all students. We are proud to have one of the city's highest rates of biliteracy; many of our students earn the Seal of Biliteracy by 5th or 8th grade, demonstrating high-level proficiency in both verbal and written communication.

Innovation and Balance

We take a balanced approach to the digital age. To protect student originality and focus, we prioritize hand-written work and aim to reduce unnecessary screen time. Student cellphone use while in school is strictly prohibited. All communication with parents while students are in school should occur through the main office.

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the educational landscape; our current focus is on integrating these tools thoughtfully without compromising student creativity or authentic effort. The use of AI for educational purposes is centered around improving communication and instructional practices by refining and extending student supports.  AI will never replace a caring and invested teacher who prioritizes learning and caring about their students. 

Flexible Time and Socio-Emotional Growth

Each day includes "Flexible Time" dedicated to socio-emotional learning (SEL), academic support, and independent reading. We cultivate a culture of literacy through initiatives like our Book Fair and the Birthday Book Vending Machine.

Parent Tip: You can support your child’s growth by ensuring they always have a novel or story that excites them ready for their daily independent reading.

Developing Executive Function

To foster independence and strong "executive functioning" skills, we guide students in tracking their own progress by checking grades every Friday. We encourage parents to mirror this habit at home to build consistency and accountability.

Additional Policies and Instructional Practices can be found in our Student-Parent Handbook.