We couldn't be happier with our experience at Pilgrim Lutheran School! As a parent, finding the right school for your children is one of the most important decisions you make, and we truly hit the jackpot here. What sets this school apart is the intimate learning environment with small class sizes that allow teachers to give each child the individual attention they deserve. The faculty is exceptional – genuinely caring educators who go above and beyond to nurture not just academic growth but the whole child. You can feel the love and dedication in every interaction. The after-school care has been a lifesaver for our family, providing a seamless extension of the school day with engaging activities that keep the kids happy and occupied. Academically, the school delivers outstanding results – their track record for high school placement speaks for itself, with students consistently getting into their top-choice schools. But what matters most to us is seeing our children excited to go to school every morning. They've found their place in a safe, supportive community where learning is fun and friendships flourish. The peace of mind knowing our kids are thriving in such a positive environment is priceless. If you're looking for a school that combines academic excellence with genuine care and creates an atmosphere where children can truly shine, look no further. We're grateful every day that we found this gem!

I cannot say enough good things about Pilgrim Lutheran. My son was there from PreK 4 through 8th grade graduation and my daughter from PreK3 through 6th grade. My son got into his first choice high school - Walter Payton, and my daughter got into Lane Academic Center. This school not only helped my kids excel academically - but as kind, well-rounded humans. The small class sizes and social justice focus meant a lot to our family. This school and its larger community was the village that helped us raise our kids. Truly the best kept secret on the Northside of Chicago.

Our family has been a part of Pilgrim Lutheran School since 2016, when our oldest started kindergarten—and we’ve never looked back. Now with children in 4th and 8th grades, I can say with confidence that this small, welcoming PK–8 school in Chicago has truly become an extended family to us. Pilgrim offers a nurturing environment where kids are known and supported. The small class sizes allow for meaningful individual attention, and we've been especially grateful for standout teachers like Mrs. Barclay in the younger grades and Mrs. Andreen in the upper grades. Both have gone above and beyond to help our children grow as learners and as kind, thoughtful people. Mr. Murphy, our new principal, has been a game changer for the school. He brings contagious energy, engages families directly, and throws himself into supporting fundraising efforts and events. The afterschool program, led by the warm and welcoming Mrs. Calderone, is another bright spot—it’s always felt easy to leave our kids in her care. My children have loved being challenged in class and have developed a real love for reading. Their friendships have been another important and joyful part of their experience. Although Pilgrim is a Lutheran school, it's welcoming to all beliefs and backgrounds. I always recommend it to other families without hesitation. If you're considering enrolling, do it—and get involved! Join the PTL, attend events, and get ready to become part of something special.

Pilgrim has been a central part of our family's life for many years. Our children began in preschool and continued through 8th grade, forming lasting friendships with classmates who started with them early on and others who joined along the way. From the beginning, the preschool and kindergarten programs emphasized emotional development, creative exploration, and learning through play rather than rigid academics. This foundation gave our boys the confidence and curiosity to grow as learners. In middle school, the academic support and individualized attention really stood out. With guidance from experienced teachers—especially the 8th grade teacher, who understands the selective enrollment process inside and out—both of our sons were accepted into competitive high schools. Our time at Pilgrim has been a truly wonderful experience. We’re grateful for the community, the dedicated staff, and the lifelong impact it's had on our children. We hope it will be just as meaningful for your family.

Pilgrim is a nurturing and positive environment where my kids saw academic growth and so many opportunities to dabble in sports/electives that might’ve otherwise been off the table. The small class sizes allowed for educators to help us hone my kids’ strengths and better support them through their struggles. I have two kids who are neurodivergent, and moving from an overcrowded and often chaotic atmosphere of their previous school to the calmer and more attentive space of Pilgrim was so helpful. Can’t recommend this school enough!