Pilgrim Lutheran School
Pilgrim Lutheran School offers a dynamic educational setting where students excel academically, spiritually, and socially. Emphasizing academic achievement, character development, and a supportive community, Pilgrim offers a well-rounded curriculum that inspires critical thinking, dedicated teachers, and a range of “specials” courses including drama, music, visual arts, and Spanish instruction at all grade levels.
Northcenter Chamber staff met with John Murphy, the principal of Pilgrim Lutheran, to learn more about the school, its programs, and what sets it apart from other options on the north side of Chicago. In his response, he highlighted 4 ways in which Pilgrim stands out:
Achievement
As the principal of Pilgrim Lutheran School, I’m always thinking about one question: what are the parents of our students paying for? The first thing I think of in response to that question is the academic achievements of our students. On average, Pilgrim students score 10 points higher in reading and 15 points higher in math on standardized testing than students in public school. These markers are shown to set students up for success in high school, and 95% of our students are accepted into their #1 high school of choice. In fact, our 2024 graduating class all received offers from selective enrollment programs.
Affordability
With a tuition of approximately $10,000 per year for 1st through 8th grade students, Pilgrim is significantly more affordable than other neighborhood private schools. We also offer a multiple-child discount, a Pilgrim Church membership discount, and generous financial aid packages.
School Environment
Pilgrim’s inclusive and nurturing school environment is one area that stands out the most. Our average teacher/student ratio is 1:12, compared to 1:17 for CPS students. By the time they graduate, a Pilgrim student will have gotten to know every teacher at our school. And conversely, teachers learn each student’s talents, interests, challenges, and goals. This sense of interconnectedness is a priority for us, and it extends beyond the classroom. Once a child is enrolled at Pilgrim, their family becomes part of our community. We host a number of social events per year, including our annual gala, family picnics, and holiday parties. In general, parents are very involved and invested in our school.
Continued Growth
We’re continually planning how to best meet the needs of our students, and ensure that we’re preparing them to not only succeed, but also to eventually make positive contributions to society. Pilgrim recently introduced a new drama and musical program through Creative Root, which is part of the Theatre School of DePaul University. We’ve also expanded our Service Learning program. Our students actively engage in projects with community partners - like The Night Ministry, the Friendship Center, Feed My Starving Children, and Cornerstone Community Outreach at every grade level which helps them grow personally as well as academically. In addition, we’re growing our Green Team, which allows students to be involved in environmental initiatives both at school and within the wider community - and our Student Council gives upper grade students the opportunity to develop leadership qualities and learn the functions and responsibilities of a representative government.
If you would like to learn more about Pilgrim Lutheran School, or if you would like to request a tour, visit their website!
