Each week TheMash travels to a different high school across the city. Nominate your school to be next at themash@tribune.com
Notable facts
Chicago Academy is two schools in one. One half is a high school and the other half is an elementary school that goes by the same name. Categorized as a “small school” Chicago Academy focuses on giving students a more intimate and personalized learning environment. The high school also was the first CPS school to install a synthetic turf field, which was added in 2007.
What’s a hot trend at your school?
The “C” hat (many students wear it), as well as preppy clothes, baggy pants, rock wear and name-brand clothes. Many girls carry huge handbags.
Biggest event of the school year
Homecoming, along with the pep rally
Favorite after-school hangouts
The field, the mall (known as the HIP), softball practice — or any sports practice after school. Many students also go to a friend’s home after school or to nearby fast-food businesses, such as Dunkin’ Donuts.
Best cafeteria food
Pizza, salads (though some students say
none of the food is good.)
School traditions
A BBQ pep rally for the football team, as well as Chicago Academy’s own version of “Taste of Chicago,” where many students bring in their own ethnic food to share with everyone.
Top sports
Football , baseball, basketball and girls volleyball.
Full name: Chicago Academy high school
Enrollment: about 500
Founded: 2004
Mascot: Cougars
Colors: blue and gray
Rival school: Steinmetz
Location:
3400 N. Austin Blvd.
Neighborhood: Portage Park
One thing that makes my school stand out is …
“Our Cougar pride.”
Terrance Levy, sophomore
“Our grades! And our good students.”
Kath Infante
Junior
“I think my school stands out because it’s a small school and even though others don’t think it’s great, I think it is because we share campus with a grammar school.”
Dominique Solano, sophomore
