100%

of the Class of 2024 was accepted into at least one of their top 3 high school choices!

Every year, Catherine Cook graduates are accepted into the most competitive public and private high schools throughout the Chicagoland area and across the country.

Our students are sought after for their strong academic preparation and excellent character. From the time your child enrolls, the inquiry-based curriculum, social-emotional learning, and leadership opportunities offered at Catherine Cook provide a solid foundation for rigorous high school preparatory work and the personal skills needed for a successful future.

The high school placement process involves one-on-one counseling and an individualized approach to finding the right next step for each 8th Grade student. The goal is to find the school that is the right fit for each student's interests, ambitions, abilities, and values. There is no one "best school," but there is a school that is best for every student.

Support for the High School Placement Process

Catherine Cook begins to provide additional support and resources to navigate the high school placement process when students enter Middle School.

From testing to school visits to application submission, we are here for your family each step of the way. Our High School Placement Director is a dedicated resource for families and holds strong relationships with admission directors from the top high schools in Chicagoland and across the country. Here is a brief summary of what your family can expect during the process.

Placement Process by Grade

5th Grade

5th Grade is a year of transition, with intentional support for organizational and executive function skills.

Prepare for and take low-stakes standardized tests to serve as a benchmark
Teachers review test results and identify potential needs for classroom adjustments or interventions
Advisors and teachers set academic goals with students and provide progress reports

6th Grade

6th Grade is a year of consolidation. We help students organize themselves, demonstrate their learning and mastery, and get ready to perform at a high level.

Attend Catherine Cook High School Night to meet with more than 60 admission representatives from the top high schools around Chicagoland and across the country
Students again prepare for and take low-stakes standardized tests with teacher review and goal setting

7th Grade

In 7th Grade, students understand that their grades, test scores, and overall academic performance will create the best possibilities for a good high school fit.

Students again attend Catherine Cook High School Night and are provided time to research schools as they begin creating their list of preferred schools
Students again prepare for and take standardized tests; these tests may be considered during the high school admission process
In January, our High School Placement Director meets with 7th Grade parents and guardians to review the high school placement process, describe the types of high schools, and provide a timeline and resources to guide families through the next eighteen months
Families have access to private information sessions with high schools
From winter through summer, families receive 1:1 counseling sessions to establish interests, strengths, and challenges

8th Grade

8th Grade is a transformative year when students are challenged by curricular and field experiences that break down the walls of school, get them out of their comfort zones, and take them into the wider community. These experiences, along with the high school placement process, help students learn about themselves and begin to envision their lives in the world beyond Catherine Cook.

In September, families meet as a group to review the application process for each type of high school and develop a final list of preferred schools
The High School Placement Director makes sure all recommendations, transcripts, and applications are submitted and remains on call to respond to emerging questions, changes, and concerns
Students practice communication and interview skills; mock interviews are held with Cook community volunteers to practice introducing themselves, answering and asking questions, and thinking on their feet.
Families are invited to the Alumni High School Chat to learn from alumni currently attending a variety of high schools
Students shadow at high schools, attend open houses, and meet with admission directors
Students prepare for and take placement tests and complete admission essays
Families receive offers of admission and make their final selection

The Last Five Years

High School Placement

The process is a powerful learning experience, and students emerge from it with a whole new set of skills and competencies. This intentional programming and support results in a high school placement record of which we are extremely proud. Our students have great choices, and our alumni have established a strong reputation for Catherine Cook at schools all over Chicagoland and beyond.