PreK-12 IB school in South Loop specializing in learning differences, ADD/ADHD support with small classes and inclusive community
Daystar Academy is a PreK-12th Grade International Baccalaureate World School in Chicago's South Loop that actively supports students with mild learning differences, ADD/ADHD, and other learning support needs. The school maintains small class sizes averaging 20 students, allowing teachers to provide individualized attention and differentiated instruction tailored to each learner's strengths and challenges.
The school offers dedicated Learning Difference Programs and ADD/ADHD support services as part of its curriculum. With a diverse, inclusive student body representing over 70 churches and 50 zip codes across Chicagoland, Daystar fosters a culturally-engaged community where students with varying learning profiles learn alongside peers. The faith-based environment emphasizes social-emotional growth alongside academic achievement, with robust extracurricular offerings including sports, arts, music, and clubs that allow all students to discover their interests and talents.
Daystar welcomes students PreK through 12th grade with rolling admissions and a 90% acceptance rate. Tuition ranges from $10,500–$14,900 for Pre-K, $16,200 for K-5, and $17,200 for grades 6-12. Tuition assistance is available for grades K-12, with 60% of the student body receiving financial aid. For more information about learning support services and admissions, contact the admissions director at (312) 791-0001 or visit daystaracademy.org.
At a Glance
TypeSchool with Special Program Emphasis
GradesPrekindergarten-12
Students301
Class Size20:1 ratio
Tuition$14,000
Fin. Aid60% receive aid
Est.1997
DeadlineNone / Rolling
Accreditation & Memberships
Cognia
Illinois Coalition of Nonpublic Schools, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School
School Information
| School Type | School with Special Program Emphasis |
| Year Founded | 1997 |
| Yearly Tuition Cost | $14,000 |
| Tuition Notes | Pre-K rates vary based upon program; PK ranges from $10,500 - $14,900. K-5 is $16,200. 6-12 is $17,200. Tuition assistance is available for grades K-12. |
| Total Students | 301 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 36 |
| Percent of Faculty with Advanced Degree | 20 |
| Average Class Size | 20 |
| Grades Offered | Prekindergarten-12 |
Admissions Information
| Admissions Director | Kristin Zandstra |
| Admission Deadline | None / Rolling |
| Acceptance Rate | 90 |
| Percent on Financial Aid | 60 |
Student Body Information
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 59 |
Academic Programs Information
Special Education Programs
Learning Difference ProgramsADD/ADHD Support
Learning Programs Supported
Mild Learning Differences
List of Courses Offered
Link to List of Courses
Sports and Extracurricular Information
| Sports | Basketball · Cross Country · Soccer · Track and Field · Volleyball |
| Clubs and Organizations | Club or Organization: · Model UN · Outdoor Club · Photography Club · Student Council · Yearbook · Arts and Music Programs: · Art · Musical Instruments · Recreational Athletic Programs: · Basketball |
Additional Information
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | Cognia · Illinois Coalition of Nonpublic Schools · International Baccalaureate (IB) World School |
| Religious Affiliations | Christian |
| School Calendar | daystaracademy.org/calendar |