Catalyst Circle Rock

09/08/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: Your Voice. Your School. Your Vote.

There is a very pivotal election happening this November – the school board election! Catalyst Circle Rock has partnered with Noble Schools and other local schools and nonprofit organizations to host a Candidate Forum.

Join us Tuesday, September 29th, for an opportunity to hear directly from candidates running to represent CPS Districts 5A & 5B on the Board of Education. Doors open at 5:30 PM, with the candidate forum from 6:00–7:30 PM at Chicago Bulls College Prep (2040 W. Adams Street). Parents, families, scholars, educators, and community members are invited to learn where candidates stand on issues affecting CPS and make informed decisions before Election Day. Our schools are woven into the diverse fabric of CPS, making this election an important one for OUR communities. Live language translation and light refreshments will be available.

This is a strictly nonpartisan event! RSVP by September 25th to guarantee a seat. The RSVP link will close once we are at capacity.

09/08/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: Save the Date – Men Take Your Child to School Day

Calling all dads, grandfathers, brothers, uncles, mentors, and men of our community! Join us on September 16th at 7:00 a.m. for Men Bring Your Child to School Day! We invite you to come out and help us greet our scholars as they arrive for school. It is so important for our children to see the men in their lives and community show up and show out for them—celebrating them, encouraging them, and reminding them that they have a village supporting their success. We hope to see you there!

09/08/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: Nurses’ Corner - 📋Keep Health Records Updated!

If your child has asthma, we ask families to share updated information with our school nurses each year. This helps us keep everyone safe and ensures we have the most current details on file. Not sure what documentation you need to submit? No worries—reach out to our school health office anytime, and they'll walk you through exactly what's needed. We're here to help!

09/08/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: 🎉 Fun Friday at Circle Rock!

We celebrated a strong finish to our first full week of school with Fun Friday activities happening throughout the building! Scholars enjoyed some well-earned fun by working together on puzzles, spending time outside, and enjoying time with their classmates. It was a joyful way to close out a great week of learning, building routines, and strengthening our school community. 💚

09/08/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: 🎻 Discover the Music! Sistema Ravinia Orchestra 🎶

Our 4th and 5th grade scholars participated in an Orchestra Petting Zoo, where they had the opportunity to see, hear, and try out different instruments while learning more about our Sistema Ravinia Orchestra Program! Enrollment is now open for 4th–8th grade scholars interested in joining the orchestra. We encourage scholars to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to learn an instrument, develop their musical talents, and be part of our incredible orchestra community!

09/08/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: 📚 Getting Down to Business!

Last week was our first full week of school, and our scholars got right down to business with academics! Across the building, scholars were hard at work reading, writing, solving problems, collaborating, and building the skills they will need for a successful year. We are proud of the focus and effort we are already seeing and are excited to keep the momentum going!

09/08/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: You Are The Rock!

Ms. Russell is The Rock!

From Mrs. Knight: This person has been a steadfast rock for me since day 1. My first-year teaching, as I struggled to find my footing, she was my anchor and my buoy. She and Brother Eddy saw my potential and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. She also sees the potential in each student, while simultaneously holding them accountable for their area of growth. She is honest, transparent, highly motivating, and fiercely loyal. She is an unwavering mentor, officially and by nature. She can sense when my energy is off from across a room. And just her presence, brings me back to even. To this day, at the start of every year, I lean on her expertise to help navigate how to move with my new scholars. Just yesterday, she spent time with me after school checking cameras and giving me feedback, so I could think through next steps. I do not know what I would do without this person every day. Ms Russell, you are such an asset to this team and such an amazingly important person in my life. You deserve it all.

Mr. Wilson is The Rock!

From Mrs. Sanders: I am pleased to pass it on to someone who has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, integrity, trustworthiness, and a strong commitment to success-not only for our scholar’s but also in his interactions with colleagues. Mr. Wilson is intentional about ensuring that no one falls through the cracks. He maintains high expectations and challenges those around him to strive for excellence. He holds himself, his peers, and our scholars to high standard while also recognizing the importance of continuous growth and development. Mr. Wilson exemplifies one of our core principles: Respect for all person. From my first day, he has made my transition into this environment easier to navigate. He has been welcoming, supportive, and approachable, creating an environment where I feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance. His leadership, encouragement, and willingness to support others have made a meaningful impact during my first two weeks. For that reason, without a doubt, Mr. Wilson has earned the rock!

09/04/2026

WORD AROUND CATALYST: KNOW YOUR DISTRICT. USE YOUR VOTE.

The CPS School Board election will take place as part of the November 3, 2026 general election.

Before Election Day, take a few minutes to:
• Find your CPS School Board district
• Learn about the candidates
• Understand what's on your ballot
• Make a plan to vote

You don't have to wait until November to get informed. Start by visiting this link. https://www.cps.edu/about/chicago-board-of-education/member-map/

09/03/2026

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: 🎉Congratulations, Mr. Myers!🎉

Catalyst Circle Rock is incredibly proud to celebrate our Director of Scholar Engagement & Enrichment, Mr. Myers, who has been selected as one of the newest Surge Institute Fellows!

Mr. Myers is a member of “CHI27,” the largest cohort in Surge Institute history, bringing together 31 mission-driven education leaders who are committed to creating lasting impact in their communities and beyond. The Surge Fellowship is a signature leadership program that empowers mission-driven leaders of color in education through connection, development, and community – equipping them to lead boldly and transform the communities they serve.

And this honor is especially meaningful for our CCR family! 💚 Mr. Myers follows in the footsteps of CCR Principal Ms. J-Dunn, his former teacher and a 2024 Surge Fellow. Talk about a full-circle moment! ✨

Congratulations, Mr. Myers! Your leadership, commitment, and heart for scholars continue to inspire us. Your CCR family is so proud of you! 💚💛🐾

09/01/2026

***** NOW ENROLLING *****
Catalyst Circle Rock still has a few spots remaining in the primary grades (Kdg-2nd grade). Contact us today for more information about giving your little one the best academic start!

WORD AROUND THE ROCK: Now Enrolling for the 2026–2027 School Year!

Catalyst Circle Rock is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year. We invite families who are looking for a joyful, rigorous school community that celebrates culture, leadership, and academic excellence to apply. Please help us spread the word and encourage interested families to visit our website to learn more and apply at catalystschools.org.