My granddaughter attends this school. This is her first year. We had the opportunity to attend her…read moreChristmas program, which was very organized and well done. we also like the way they stress independent thinking.

We sent our sons there from P3 through 8th grade. The school was a great place for my two Black…read moreboys and they both really thrived there. I really appreciated that the school met them where they were at and built from there. I can say that of nearly every teacher they had during their 11 years at Ancona. The community is very engaged and feels like a small village in a big city. The results have been great as both of my sons have done great in HS, socially and academically, building on the foundation Ancona gave them.

I'm confused.... Nothing but positive reviews on this site. As of 4/10/2026 the head baseball coach…read morecancelled practice to attend the Cubs game. In the meantime, his players held and organized practice on the same day. NOTE: this coach has a high round draft pick and several committed D1 players on his team. They certainly needed a commitment from their coach. If 1 of his players missed practice to attend the Cubs game, there would be severe consequences. Do as I say not as I do! So much for being a "role model". Buyer beware with the Mt. Carmel baseball program.

Great School. This school has amazing teachers and the athletics are amazing. Everyone I know has…read moremade a lot of new friends here and have made a real brother hood with everyone in the school.

I sought out a school for my autistic child, and upon receiving a call for further details, I was…read moreinformed that they are focusing on students who can express themselves and are performing above a high grade level. Given that they position themselves as a therapeutic institution, I believe they should be more inclusive in their admissions process. Based on this experience, I cannot recommend this school.

The O-School has been life-changing for my son and our family. My son is Autistic and gifted, and…read morethey do a wonderful job meeting both his social-emotional and academic needs. Public school was not working, but he has been successful at the O-School, and we are so thankful for that.

After 5:00 summer series Wednesday wine down:I recently visited this Little Black Pearl, and I have…read moreto say the energy when I walked in was great. I was surrounded by such positive, welcoming people of all ages. Throughout the night, we sang karaoke, played cards, shot pool and listened to good music. What really stood out to me was how safe, inclusive, and comfortable the environment felt. Everyone was so kind and genuine. But what truly touched my heart was how the community embraced my brother, who is special needs. There was no judgment only acceptance, laughter, and open arms. For the first time in a long time, I didn't feel like I had to be on guard, watching to make sure he was being treated with respect because everyone just welcomed. It was a relaxing night filled with connection and joy. I would absolutely come back and recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, warm, and safe space. Thank you for such an unforgettable expeience.

The organization for which I work recently held an event at Little Black Pearl (LBP). The support…read moreand service we received was beyond stellar! LBP provided the space, catered the food (via their onsite cafe, Carver 47), connected us to amazing balloon and floral vendors, and provided other accoutrements (e.g., tables and chairs, table coverings, a stage, sound and tech support, package management). LBP's one-stop shop especially helpful given that our planning team resided outside of Chicago. There is so much to applaud from the experience: the warm and inviting space exuded elegance; the feast was as beautiful as it was delicious; and the LBP team's interactions with us (from planning to completion) was the epitome of grace and hospitality. They accommodated every request and did so with an exceptional level of excellence. When we asked that the menu include a vegetarian and Halal dish, they ensured guests had multiple options. When we requested assistance erecting our banner, they took on the task of assembling the entire structure, even machine washing and drying it when they noticed a stain. Compared to other spaces we considered (and have used in the past) across the city, LBP's offerings and support stood head and shoulders above and their love was palpable in their attention to details.That they have a heart-centered mission and work in support of youth and community was tasty icing on an already amazing cake. Thank you, Little Black Pearl team, for making our event a world-class experience!