Spring 2025- CPS SEES Gifted and Classical Results

[chicagoschooloptions]

CPS will release elementary school offers for any programs applied to via the GoCPS applications (SEES & Choice Programs) as follows:

• APRIL 11th, 2025 – Results Released
• MAY 2nd, 2025 – Accept/Decline Deadline
• MAY 19th, 2025 – Rolling Waitlist Process Opens
• 2 BUSINESS DAYS AFTER OFFER ISSUED – Waitlist Accept/Decline Deadline

Please feel free to post results to share. Applicants may be offered one Selective Enrollment ES offer and one Choice offer (if applicable). Their neighborhood school is always available for them to attend at any time.

Comment below about your child’s SEES Classical and/or Gifted results and include the grade applied to, your Tier (if applicable), point total or percentage, and what order the school was ranked on your application. If you applied to Choice (lottery) schools as well, please post HERE. Good luck!

Here are videos slidedeck on “Selections Process Explained”

Guide to Understanding Rankings & Cutoff Scores is HERE.  Cutoff scores are now posted for Classical and Gifted SEES programs. Tiers are only applicable for the entry year of a program (typically K for RGC & Classical or 7th for Academic Centers). Cut scores are HERE.

[KW]

Login is available at the apply.cps.edu website! This year’s website is harder to navigate than last year’s, but once you login, click on View at “Classical and Regional Gifted Center Programs 2025-26 Application” and then scroll all the way down to see your place at the schools you selected. Good luck everyone!

[HK]

How much do waitlists move for non-entry grades? My child is on the waitlist for a non-entry grade at McPherson. Does anyone have experience with those waitlists and willing to share a waitlist number and whether they got an offer?

[JS]

Last year my child was #12 on McPherson’s waitlist for 2nd grade. We got an offer by late July. I hope this helps.

[kA]

Did you accept an offer before then? What happens to your spots on the waitlist if you accept a choice offer?

[Bportmom]

Yes actually I tracked that. Last year my daughter was 19 for NTA 1st grade and got down to 8, and 54 at Pritzker and ended up at 40.

[kA]

The NTA movement is surprisingly high given they have 28 spots.

[Bportmom]

Yeah, my lesson from having a kid there is that kids move around for all sorts of reasons. To be with siblings,
To be closer to home, to the suburbs, they move out of state, etc. I think that’s true a lot of places, and I imagine NTA in particular has a lot of people who consider it their second or third choice and get in to preferred schools, so the list moves.

[kA]

It says #3 on my highest rank classical waitlist and #12 for RGC. I’m not quite sure what a tier waitlist is. What are my odds of getting into either?

[Lakshmi]

Last year, my daughter was #8 in Tier 3 for Decatur in Kindergarten, and it only moved to #3 in Tier 3 by the end of July. This year, she is on general waitlist #2 for Decatur and general waitlist #30 for Edison. Depending on the school you applied to and the demand for it, it is possible the waitlist does not move at all or moves very slowly, because kids who get into these top schools don’t want to give up their spot. #3 waitlist seems promising though. Sorry, I hope this helps.

[kA]

What did you end up doing if you don’t mind me asking? Did you apply to choice and if so did you accept an offer before the rolling waitlist?

[Lakshmi]

@kA We waited until the end of June to decide if we should continue waiting or send her to the neighborhood school, which is what we ended up doing because the waitlist did not move. We enrolled her in extra math classes and work with her on reading at home now, because she is not being challenged enough at school. We applied to choice as well but did that as an after thought, so it was too late. Unfortunately, they CPS does provide any kind of timeline or guarantee for the waitlist. So you just need keep your options open and have a plan B. :/

[AT]

Is there a scoring rubric again this year? One of my kids actually had the point total for RGC, but the other one did not have a total for the Classical. And also, I’d be interested in the cut scores.

[Lakshmi]

I think this is the cut scores, they are calling in Point total now.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RUmvrTbe7j4gK3fEhrB8zWGL10aK4U9a/view

[AT]

Thanks!

[Amy]

How does the general waitlist work for grades 1 and above? are all the students ahead of us really on the waitlist? I have heard that a lot of students that are already in classical or RGC will take the test every year for practice, so do these kids list other schools to see how they do?

[Lakshmi]

I’d like to know about this too. My daughter is #2 in Decatur and General waitlist #30 in Edison for Grade 1. I know a few families who are in classical/RGC already and they take the test every year like you said to see where they stand. If they get into a better school, they take it.

[ChiDadAttorney]

Which Grade did she test for? What are her Verbal/Math scores?

[Lakshmi]

@ChiDadAttorney My daughter tested for Grade 1. Her scores are

Classical
Math: Percentile — 99; Score – 157
Reading: Percentile – 99; Score – 154
Point total – 300/300

RGC
Non-Verbal Score — 124
Verbal Score — 120
Composite Score — 125
Point total – 212.5/300

[one_more_time]

Kindergarten, T4, offered SN. There will be a spot at Sheridan opening up.

Good luck everyone!

[RossEntrance]

We got into Skinner North Kindergarten. Tier 4. 242.5/300 on Classical and 245/300 on Gifted. Skinner was our top choice.

[Chicago Parent]

Tier 1, tested for K at 4 years, 8 months and offered SW (1st choice). Good luck everyone.

[Chicago Parent]

apologies, meant tier 4

[leafy]

Anyone know how to interpret the results? Last year there was chart that showed you what the scores meant. Esp RGC scores

[Applying Parent]

Rubrics are here: https://www.cps.edu/gocps/resources/elementary-school-resources/#a_scoring-rubrics

[Jill]

My child applied to 3 regional gifted programs. We did not receive an offer but it says we are “general waitlist” for each of these programs and it tells us the waitlist number for each school. We only applied for RGC, not anything else, but waitlist says “general.” Does that mean we are that waitlist number for the RGC program at each school or does “general waitlist” mean something different? My understanding is that if her score wasn’t high enough to be considered that the response would have been “not offered” but the terminology “general waitlist” is confusing.

[Bportmom]

That means you’re on the waitlist for the RGC program and there are no tier considerations (you must not be an entry level). Your kids score qualified them for the waitlist, otherwise as you say, it would say Admin declined.

[Jill]

Sorry, one other thing to note: This is for 4th grade entry to RGC (oddly enough, the cutoff scores listed are only specified for kindergarten, so I’m not even sure how to interpret her score). I also have not been able to locate the scores from last year–we used to be able to see the history. Any insights on where to get her prior scores?

[HK]

My understanding is that for non-entry years, tiers no longer count, so that’s why it says general waitlist.

[HK]

Sorry, just to add – I don’t think they give cutoff scores for non-entry years, either (but I could be wrong on this!) I can see my child’s scores from last year if I log in to the old schoolmint site where the application was last year. Hope this is helpful!

[Bportmom]

For my son’s entry, into 3rd grade, his composure score was a 134. He got in off the waitlist. I think the K scores run about 10 points higher than the non-K scores because they’re scored on a different metric but don’t quote me on that.

[SA]

We are #4 on Tier Waitlist (Tier 4) for Beaubien RGC for 1st grade (entry year). Wondering if we stand any kind of chance but assuming we likely don’t? And can anyone help explain how the tiers work with waitlists?

[ChiMama]

There were at least some tier 4 off the waitlist last year at Beaubien for 1st grade. No idea how many.

[SA]

Thanks for the insight!

[evagreen]

We received an offer from Beaubian for 1st grade, tier 4. Will decline the offer so at list one spot will be free soon. Good luck.

[SB]

28 on wait-list at Lane, Tier 4, RGC point total: 257.5, academic center: 557.5

[Vin]

My kiddo is number 2 on waitlist at Pritzker gifted program for second grade. What are the chances of her getting in? Does anyone have any similar experience and got in?

[Bportmom]

Very high. The rising first grade list moved 15 points last summer.

[Sarah]

Was this for non entry level grade? My daughter is a rising second grader.

[Bportmom]

Yes, 1st isn’t an entry grade. I assume older grade waitlists move less but 2 is still good odds.

[Vin]

Thanks. Was that for Pritzker? I’m hoping she is able to get in 🤞

[LSmom]

Chances may be good depending on class movement. Currently kiddo is in 2nd grade at Pritzker. We had 2 kids leave last year and 4 new students join this year.

[WTmom]

Our daughter received an offer for Pritzker’s gifted program for kindergarten, but we recently saw comments from another parent who pulled their child after two years in the gifted program due to problems at the school. Wondering if anyone here could share thoughts on their experience at Pritzker, good or bad?

[HP]

Our oldest was offered Pritzker for PreK shortly after the pandemic hit. We ended up withdrawing, mainly for logistical reasons, but also because we were very unimpressed by the school’s communication. I distinctly remember asking what options there were for working parents given the 9am start time and being treated like this was an absurd question. It eventually became clear that before care programming was up in the air due to the pandemic, which is understandable, but I’m not sure why I had to be chastised for asking about it. I also went to their open house this fall and found it absolutely chaotic. It was by far the least impressive school tour I’ve ever experienced. I’m acquainted with a few families and their feedback (bad for diverse learners, poor communication) has reinforced my perception that it’s probably not the best option out there.

We’re located about the same distance from Morton as we are from Pritzker and were really impressed after their tour, so although it’s less established and in a less desirable area, we felt it was a stronger choice. We also ended up getting offered Morton, so I may be biased, but I would recommend giving them a look if you have misgivings about Pritzker. Given their lower cut score, it could be a possible alternative option if you’re up for trying the waitlist.

[EC]

We are considering Morton for our rising 2nd grader but are interested in the community factor. Have you found that the parents are involved and kids see each other outside of school? I know it varies from class to class but wasn’t sure how spread out people are throughout the city. We have heard great things about the principal and were impressed on our tour but community is an important factor for us.

[HP]

Our offer is for Kinder, so not a lot of insight on the community yet unfortunately, but I agree that the principal seems great, as does the RGC coordinator. I appreciate that their program seems to be coherent and intentional, and I love that one of their specials is “genius hour”. I think I am concerned that other families may be basing their decisions on school reputations without giving the school a good look, as I know from the class sizes they shared during their fall tour that they have not filled all their seats in the past. We are going to wait until after the 4/23 open house to accept, as right now our main fear is what if they end up with a class size of 10? 15? Our child is very social. But as I see others in our circle tending to be more interested in Pritzker/Bell or SW/SN (even through I hear complaints about Pritzker and SW), now that we have a Morton offer, I am hoping others will give the program a look and see what we see so that we end up being able to be a part of a growing, viable program.

To go back to your original question, since that went on a tangent, the RGC coordinator did address the community aspect some on the fall tour we took. The way they put it is that they have seen a divide between the way RGC parents want to engage vs the neighborhood families, but the RGC parent involvement is strong, and the school is actively working to bridge the gap and build a more connected and engaged school community. They seem to have a lot of activities and events if you look at their calendar, which seems encouraging.

[eastvillagemom]

We have been at Pritzker for years. The first couple years after the pandemic were pretty bad, both in terms of administrative and classroom communications. This year is so much better. I think it’s teacher specific and the PTO is also back together and organized, which is making a huge difference.

[HNL]

My child started in the RGC program at Pritzker in fourth grade this year, and the experience has been fantastic. I have heard similar complaints from parents about poor communication by the admin, but so far we haven’t had any complaints. My kid has really thrived here in a way that has made me believe this is the right school for him. The fourth grade teacher is absolutely amazing and very supportive of neurodiverse kids. There is also before school care available now although it is quite expensive compared to the program that was available at our neighborhood school.

[Momomom]

Can you please share the prices for before and after care?

[HNL]

Here’s the pricing from the provider: https://apollo-pritzker.jumbula.com/

[Momomom]

Thank you!

[Jamie]

We are #6, tier 2 wait-listed for gifted kinder at pritzer- guessing we don’t have a chance?

[Bportmom]

I think that’s a good number TBH.

[Edison]

My child got an offer from Edison, she will be grade 4, currently at Bell. So 2 spots will be available for 4th grade at Bell coming year: my child’s, and a classmate relocating to a different state

[BMom]

Is it okay to know why you choose to go to Edison not staying at Bell?

[Edison]

Bell is a great school, especially parents are a gem! We chose to switch only because Edison is closer to our home, it will be walking distance, we wouldn’t have to drive her to school anymore. My child and I both love Bell so much!

[Karla]

Hi my daughter received an offer at Edison for kinder. Would you mind sharing a bit about your experience at Edison? We really love our neighborhood school but we obviously have to accept the offer at Edison. We’d be crazy not to right? Thanks!

[Edison]

And her brother already goes to Edison, so for our family logistics wise it would be easier. Thats the only reason

[Confounded Dad]

Hi There,

Can someone explain how CPS determines the composite score?

RGC Non-Verbal Score — 128

RGC Verbal Score — 132

RGC Composite Score — 132

Thanks,

Confounded Dad

[Edison]

This year’s scoring system confused me too. I asked chatGPT, it was able to explain well. Just as an idea, try asking chatgpt! Hope it helps! 🙂

[Sarah]

Hi does anyone have any experience with Pritzker gifted program? Thanks

[KW]

I do. What grade are you going into?

[Sarah]

She’s going into second grade.

[LSmom]

We’re currently in 2nd grade at Pritzker.

[Sarah]

Hello, does anyone know how much the waitlist moves for Bell? Daughter currently # 13 on waitlist for second grade.

[KW]

Last year’s Bell’s rising 2nd grade class had only 1 open spot.

[Chimom323]

Does anyone know for kindergarten entry when the tiers are no longer taken into consideration for the waitlist?

Right now with the waitlists, I’m guessing my position means that that # of people in my tier would need to turn down an offer.

But at some point they combine all those waitlists and just make it all one list, right?

[ChiDadAttorney]

Is your waitlist for General or Tiered? What’s your# and which school?

[KW]

I don’t think so. The tiered waitlist lasts throughout the whole waitlist process for kindergarten.

[Applying Parent]

They used to do this in previous years, but no longer do. You will remain on the waitlist for your specific tier throughout the waitlist process.

[Teane]

Hello. We are #5-6 WL for Bell and Edison 3rd grade entry with composite RGC score 141. Does anyone have an idea if something may happen for us this summer?

[KW]

In my opinion, there is a small chance. Last year for Edison’s 2nd grade, I think someone at #6 or 7 was offered a spot near the end of the summer.

[HNL]

Last year, we applied for Bell RGC, second grade, and the waitlist only moved about five spots. It was unclear how many of those were kids just dropping from the waitlist compared to actual acceptances.

[KW]

Last year’s rising 2nd grade Bell RGC class had only 1 open spot. I think Edison had 3-4 spots open up. My guess is those on the Bell waitlist took Edison spots (or other school spots, or declined for other reasons).

[Billy]

For kindergarten, it says Bell had 28 offers out of 747 applicants last year. I’m guess if you’re not in the top 3 wait-list, you’re not getting in.

[Teane]

I am asking for non-entry grade, not K.

[Sixthgrader]

I got in to Decatur, my first choice. 298.5/300.

[ChiDadAttorney]

Wow! That’s one genius child. Congratulations!

[Luis]

my son tested for fourth grade,, he is tier 2 with a 253/300 score, im wondering why he wouldnt be offered a seat at Skinner North, anybody know how to make sense of the numbers?

[ML parent]

I could be wrong but you need an almost perfect score to get a seat at SN depending on your tier.

[Applying Parent]

Tier is only considered at the entry year. Since you’re applying to 4th grade, Tier doesn’t matter. There are usually very few spots open at SN if you are applying to any grade 1-6, so the score required for an offer is often 99/99 or close to it

[Danijela]

Tier is only a factor for Kindergarten entry.

[Mia]

My kid is #1 waitlist for Tier 4 Skinner West, kindergarten. I know they have very few spots, is there still some chance to get the offer?
Thank you!

[AT]

Last year my son was #8 Tier 4, and when the rolling waitlist opened up, he dropped to #6. So there’s a chance!

[AT]

(He was in the skinner west waitlist)

[Mia]

Thank you for the information!

[Mia]

Our score is reading 96% math 99%, classical 226.3/300

[JL219]

My son is listed at #9, tier 2, for POE classical. Has anyone had any experience with the tier waitlist vs. general waitlist? Do the RGC’s and Classical schools both have general and tier list? Thanks

[AT]

My kid got 99% on both math and reading for classical for non entry year (rising first grader.) He is waitlisted #10 for Skinner West. Has anyone seen movement on the skinner west non-entry year waitlists in the past?

[ML parent]

Skinner west has only 1 classical class per grade. A spot would need to open up in this years K class for another student to enter at 1st grade level.

This happened this year twice in my daughter’s 1st grade class. Two kids dropped out of the program end of K opening up two spots.

They should let parents know how many spots are available after K so you know how to rank schools. Applying to skinner west after K makes no sense of a spot isn’t available.

[AT]

It makes sense if you don’t know whether a spot will open up when you apply in the fall.

[Momomom]

Do you mind sharing the reading/math scores? (I think may different scores may map to 99 percentile.)

[AT]

Hi – sure— his math was 157 and his reading was 154. His classical point total was 300/300. I don’t know the scoring rubric used to get the points, but it’s nice this year that they just told us and we don’t have to do the math! Both were 99th percentile. So I’m thinking getting into skinner classical is not going to happen. But I will put in a plug for Morton RGC – it’s an excellent program. My 5 y.o. Is thriving. We might move my 8 y.o. From skinner classical to Morton RGC.

[Momomom]

Thank you! Those are the exact same score as my daughter. She got a Pritzker RGC offer, but wondering what waitlist number she would be at SW classical. I guess you answered my question!

[AT]

My older soon is at Skinner West classical, however he got accepted into Morton RGC. His brother is in Morton RGC, but got waitlisted for Skinner west classical (non entry year.)

My older son is desperate not to leave his friends. The issue is that Morton RGC is a better run, higher quality school. And they’d both be in the same school.

Any thoughts on detrimental effects on elementary school children changing schools at that age? I know there’s no perfect answer, but looking for perspectives.

[HNL]

I think it really depends on your kid! Mine moved from his neighborhood school to Pritzker RGC for fourth grade this school year. At first he was a little resistant to the idea of change but he had very few actual friends at his previous school and he was constantly bored in class. So the change was relatively easy for him. I can imagine the transition being much tougher if your child has deeper social connections though. Good luck! It’s a tough decision.

[Confuzzled]

Hi there. First year applying for Regional Gifted Center for 1st grade. So confused by how these numbers add up. We’re far down on waitlist. I see on the tiers points pdf that you have to score above 150 to even be waitlisted. Our kid’s scores are listed below. So is it the 172 that counts for her? Cause if it was the Composite one listed she wouldn’t have even gotten a waitlist, right? Just no idea how to evaluate this.

Scores for School Year 2025-26
RGC Verbal Score – 115
RGC Non-Verbal Score – 104
RGC Composite Score – 109

Point Calculations for School
Year 2025-26
RGC Point Total – 172.5/300

We also totally misunderstood the RGC application process and only applied to the school she’s only attending for their RGC. So is it too late to see if this score could have got her into another school?

[ChiMama]

Yes, It’s the 172 that is the comparison. Only Keller and Beaubien have first grade entry so only those scores will show for the cut-off score in the PDFs. For Non-entry years it just depends on how many seats open up and the school likely doesn’t know that yet but typically only a few and high scores. yes you can add to the waitlist of other programs when the rolling waitlists open.

[Confuzzled]

Thanks for your help!

[LSmom]

Rising 3 grader with a classical score 99/99 and 1st on waitlist for Skinner North. Thoughts on whether there will be movement or do other factors go into changes to rankings? Any current parents of 2nd or 3rd graders at SN that have some insight to school/program/classroom environment? Is the environment super competitive and every student for themselves or generally do the kids all get along?

[eastvillagemom]

Does a 99/99 add up to 299/300? I’m new to these scores. My kid got 99/97 and composite 297/300. High on SN wait-list (we aren’t taking it even if offered). I’d assumed a kid needed 99/99 to get in, especially non entry years, but 297 also seems really high?

[HP]

99/99 is 300 for 1st-8th Classical (99/98 is 298.5). There is a rubric on the GoCPS website, but I can’t link it because it’s being flagged as spam.

[Momomom]

Do you know if they distinguish within 99/99 by exact scores?

[AT]

I think they do. My kid has 99/99 with 300/300 points. But he’s #10 on skinner west waitlist. So they must?

[LSmom]

I’m not 100% sure, but I think they do. For example, 300/300 is the max score that they can get, but the actual classical math and classical reading score they achieve can be higher than 150.

My guess is that if a lot of kids got 300/300 (99%/99%), then they get an offer/waitlist number based on their actual scores.

[Lakshmi]

I think they do too. My daughter tested for first grade and her scores are 99/99 percentile with 300/300 points and her score is 157 – Math and 154 – Reading. She got no offers, but we are waitlisted #2 at Decatur and #5 at both Skinners.

[Joy Brown]

I saw an application for a 2nd round of SEES Classical, RGC and Academic testing planned for 2025-26. Am I seeing things??

[bportmom]

They do a second round but your kid had to not have taken any test in the fall to be eligible to take the spring tests.

[Irina]

Hello! We are #2 and #4 for 3 RGCs going to 7th grade next year. Don’t want to get to excited. Anyone know anything about 7th grade waiting list? Thank you!

[Irina]

Where do you see that?

[Lamom]

You’re very likely to get in, lots of movement in 7th because of AC acceptances.

[Bportmom]

There will be many, many openings for 7th grade. Last year at NTA all but 4 kids left for academic centers.

[Tim]

My son is applying for K, got #5 for Skinner West and #8 for skinner North and #7 for Decatur. Is there any chance he would get in? Really confused by this. Thank you!

[Chitown]

Hey tim, what tier are you?

[JC]

Hi Tim – would you mind sharing SN and the classical score? I’m hoping to add my son to the rolling waitlist and will give me an indication on where son MAY end up on the waitlist.

[Tim]

My son got 99% on reading and 95% on Math. Hopefully it helps you.

[JC]

Thank you very much for responding. Could you also kindly share the classical composite score out of 300? It will give us a better indication since that determines that waitlist ranking.

[Tim]

We are in Tier4. I checked his score should be good enough to get in all schools if we were in Tier3…lol

[Tim]

We are in Tier4. I don’t know how many kids could get out of the waitlists every year on average… but this year seems harder.

[AT]

For Skinner West, my some was going into kinder. He went from #8 to #6.

[Mia]

Hi Tim,
My kid is tier4 #1 for SW and #2 for Decatur. We are going to remove SW since Decatur is our top choice. Good luck to both of us!

[Tim]

I think I see his ranking got moved 1 place upfront for SW. good luck for all of us!

[evagreen]

I believe SN tier 4 WL moved up 10 spots last year for K entry. So I believe you will get a good chance to SN this year.

[Chitown]

Hey Eva- can I ask how you know that? Thank you!

[Tim]

Hopefully this year works the same way, but I heard they changed something…

[JC]

Hello families – congratulations to those who were offered spots at schools of their choice.

Question – I am trying to understand from folks if tiers play a role in rolling waitlist offers for SEES school, kindergarten admission?

[KW]

Yes, tiers still play a role in waitlist offers. So if someone from Tier 3 declines their offer, then that spot will be offered to the next person in the Tier 3 waitlist, even if the Tier 4 Waitlist #1 student has a better score.

[CoffeeCalmsMom]

We’re Tier 4 for Kindergarten and were offered a spot at Decatur. We won’t be accepting it, so a spot will be opening up!

[RossEntrance]

Why not, ooc?

[CoffeeCalmsMom]

It’s a great school, but we’ve decided it’s not the right fit for our family. Much earlier start time and it would double our current school commute. We also have a younger child who will test in a few years, so we’re inclined to stay at our current private for the sake of logistics and long-term balance.

[HeadacheDad]

Curious if you decline the offer, will people on the tier 4 waitlist move up one spot? Does that update once rolling waitlist starts?

[CoffeeCalmsMom]

There’s no option for us to decline, only to accept, so we’re just waiting for it to expire on May 2nd. I don’t think it will necessarily move up one spot, since families may change their minds or reject current offers to join another school’s waitlist. If another family with a higher score joins the same waitlist, your spot might also move back. I expect the waitlist numbers to shift significantly on May 19, once families finalize their decisions and spots begin to move.

[ABCparent]

That is how I understand it. A tier 4 declined spot opens up a spot on the tier 4 waitlist

[SEES Goals]

Does it feel like more kids took the test this year? My son keeps doing better every year on both the Classical and RGC tests. However, every year we’re placed further back from the finish line. This year he’s applying to enter 4th grade.

[Bportmom]

I don’t think so. It gets harder and harder to get in as the kids age because there are fewer and fewer openings because kids are already occupying those spots and are less likely to leave. A composite score of 145 will get you in anywhere for K, but might not be good enough for 4th. It’s tough.

[Sees goals]

While it does get harder as the kids age, they also wouldn’t get offers until May 19th at the earliest. So it’s not like current students in sees programs are in front of him minus those who took the test to see where they scored. In any case, don’t they open up 3 more slots in 4th grade in addition to those who leave? I read that someone on these boards was waitlisted 17th for a good rgc for 2nd grade and got an offer in July.

[Sees goals]

Ok. I think I figured it out why these waitlist numbers seem off. Previously parents were only allowed to pick three schools initially. This year we could rank upto 5 schools. Obviously more people in each pool which could also mean more movement if families aren’t as committed due to logistics or for some other reason.

[Applying Parent]

???

You’ve always been able to apply for up to 6 Classical/RCG programs and 6 ACs. 5 is the max for PreK programs. 3 is the max for the RGC-ELs (the Spanish gifted programs)

[Sees goals]

I’m talking about in the 1st round.

[Applying Parent]

The maximum number of programs one can apply to in each category, which is in effect in both the initial round and during the rolling waitlist:

– 20 Choice
– 6 Academic Centers
– 6 Classical/Regional Gifted Center programs
– 3 Regional Gifted Centers for English Learners

Where are you getting your numbers?

[Sees goals]

In the old system (used last year), in the initial first round a parent could up to 3 schools. Once the 1 round closed and then the second round opened, then you were able to add three more schools. This new system lets you pick up to 5 schools in the first round.

[Cpsmom2034]

Question we had our son take the test as prep for the academic center test. How close in comparison is it? Is it more close to classical or RGC?

[Momomom]

That is really not a great use of everyone’s time and resources, is it?

[Applying Parent]

The Academic Center admissions exam literally is the RGC test. As in, if you apply to both RGCs and Academic Centers for 7th grade, you will only take one test.

[Bportmom]

The RGC test *is* the AC test, AFAIK.

[Cpsmom2034]

Got it. I was curious on how it compares.

[Momomom]

Our daughter (K->1) got offer Pritzker, even though we ranked Skinner West higher and her classical scores (154 99%, 157 99%, 300/300) are higher RGC scores (147, 267.5/300). Is there any way to check what waitlist number she would be at SW without declining Pritzker first? She’s currently in SW neighborhood so it would be easier if she can get into SW classical.

By the way, she tested for K as a pandemic baby who didn’t talk to adult strangers, and the scores are night and day (29-40 point improvements in each of the categories). I have long thought that using a 1-on-1 interview for K is bonkers. Since they read them the questions during the group 1st grade testanyway, why can’t they use a paper test for incoming K as well, or at least give that as an option?

[Amy]

Amazing job to your daughter!

If you don’t mind me asking, what test prep did you do for her – for both the classical and RGC exams? Thx!

[Momomom]

No test prep. We do of course do a lot of educational activities with her, e.g. math and reading books, games, and puzzles (sight word bingo was a fun one), but no test prep classes. Her aptitude hasn’t changed within that year, and her knowledge has grown in a way that is consistent with getting a year older, but her scores are completely different. This is a failure in the way the test was administered.

[Applying Parent]

Arguably the only solution to children having different scores in different years is to eliminate selective enrollment schools entirely. When you test on the scale that CPS does, there will always be variability in results for some participants.

This isn’t even abnormal. The same child can get a D on one math test and a perfect score on the next. (This happened to my primary-aged child this year. We studied the same amount for both tests.)

Testing is imperfect and there is absolutely no way to make it perfect.

[Momomom]

I agree there is no way to make it perfect. But a standardized achievement/aptitude test should not have a variance of 40 points between administrations that were not reported as invalid. This is very different from a school test which is not standardized. Obviously without statistics of the outcomes we have no idea whether she was just an extreme outlier or the test was poorly designed/administered. One also cannot rule out tester bias in the 1-on-1. A paper test is cheaper than a 1-on-1 interview, is less prone to bias, and allows greater access, so I’m not sure why that isn’t offered at least as an option for K.

[kameda]

Thank you for the anecdote. I have always had the same thoughts about the 1 on 1 interview for K but I wouldn’t have known otherwise (my very reserved child tested for K this year).

Do you mind sharing if you thought your child’s scores from last year were not reflective of her abilities, and is that what prompted you to retest this year (especially w/o extra prep)?

[Citymom13]

I saw the same variance with my son (now in 1st grade). He score so low going into K that he wasn’t even waitlisted for RGC. Took the test the following year and his RGC raw score (I don’t understand this years score out of 300) increased 33 points and he got into an RGC program. My 4 year old, who seems slightly smarter, also scored too low to be waitlisted. Hopefully she has the same increase next year and can get in for 1st grade and this issue for my kids is 1-on-1 with a person vs a paper test.

[evagreen]

Same question here. I have a RGC offer so I can’t see the potential WL ranking of my kid on other schools such as SN, SW or Bell, Edison. The only way for me is that I know two other kids WL ranking and they happen to have similar scores with my kid (but still not accurate).

[AT]

If this helps – my son is in K going to 1st. He had 99th and 99th percentile for reason and math and I think they were like yours – 154 and 157 (can’t remember that par specifically.) he is currently #10 on the skinner west wait list.

[Confused mom]

Hello – first time navigating the CPS system for my kids (entering 2nd and K).

My 2nd grader was offered a spot at NTA but my younger kid is currently waitlisted for SN, SW, Decater and NTA with waitlist numbers ranging 9-12, tier 4). Does he have a chance getting into any school? We would ideally send both kids to the same school (NTA) if at all possible.

[Bportmom]

I’d say you have the best odds at NTA. The list moves.

[Confused mom]

Thank you. Both kids seemed to have done much better on their classical exam than RGC, so was somewhat surprised that it was the RGC school that my older one got an offer to and my younger one seemingly has the best shot at getting in… it looks like that is also a function of how popular / competitive the schools are

[JC]

Hello Confused mom – could you kindly share the SN waitlist number, reading & math percentile and composite classical score for your child applying entering KG? my child did not get a waitlist number hence trying to gauge my child’s chances should I enroll him in waitlist. Your input would be very helpful to our family. Thank you

[AAS_Mom]

@bportmom – I am a bport mom too:) You seem like you might know a bit about NTA, and there is very little online about it. Can you share the good, the bad and the ugly (if you have it)? I am trying to decide if we stay the course in our Montessori program, switch to RGC at NTA OR decline and see if we get an offer from RGC at Pritzker.

[Sloopmom]

We have been very happy at NTA (currently 1st grade but started in PreK). Admin is very responsive and the parents are involved. The class work seems challenging and my son loves going to school. My favorite part is all the different after school activities available from standard aftercare, chess team, swim team and multiple sports (most sports start in older grades though). It looks like they are having an open house in April 22 at 9am. https://www.ntacourage.org/apps/news/article/2057266

[Chitown]

Would you mind sharing your specific waitlist numbers for each school? Thank you.

[Chitown]

Would you mind sharing your specific waitlist numbers for each school? Thank you.

[Sloopmom]

Confused Mom- Feel free to message me if you want more insight into NTA. My son is currently in 1st grade so would be in the same class as your rising 2nd grader if you take the spot.

[Addie78]

I am navigating CPS admission for the first time. My daughter is #33 waitlisted for McPherson. Are there any chances at all? We are applying for K.

[Bportmom]

Tbh, I doubt it. In the 30s is hard.

[Addie78]

That’s what I thought. Do you know if we accept offer from a non-selective enrollment school then are we removed from all SE schools waitlists too?

[Bportmom]

I’m not 100% sure but if you accept a choice offer, I believe you will need to re-add yourself to the SE waitlists but you can still be on them even if you’ve accepted a choice offer. And if you’re kicked off the waitlist and re-add yourself, it’s not a crisis because the waitlist order is a function of test score.

[Applying Parent]

Accepting a choice offer doesn’t impact your current waitlists at all. Accepting a SE offer doesn’t either, actually, though it will prevent you from joining SE waitlists. It’s *receiving* a SE offer that will kick you off other SE waitlists.

[Primom]

What are the chances of waiting number 4 with tier 3 to get a spot in Decatur??

[Chimom323]

I’d say pretty good. Good luck

[Ma-Gang]

Just a heads up that when we respond with where our littles were admitted you typically list: tier, classical reading percentile, classical math percentile, rgc composite; and what school you were offered or list all the waitlisted school along with the waitlist number

I.e.
Tier 4, reading 99, math 99, rgc 150 waitlisted SN #25

This is really helpful for the greater community as we all navigate this journey together.

[guest]

Good morning everyone,
Thank you so much for all the information, it’s been very helpful, especially since this is the first time navigating through this process. Can anyone give information or experiences with having a child in National Teachers Academy?

[Applying Parent]

Given that they post entry year cut scores now, this seems most helpful for non-entry grades, where tier is irrelevant.

[evagreen]

I have a question about the WL ranking. One of my close friend’s kid has exactly same classical scores with my kid. (And we know another kid also has the same score). But the first kids rank almost #30 on SN and another kids is #15. We are all tier 4. The same thing happened on the two kids last year. Same score but ranking is very different. I’m curious how they decide the WL ranking when kids are at the same score? The only possibility I can tell here is girls ranking higher than the boy?

[Applying Parent]

They include tiebreakers on the rubric. For K Classical, it’s:

1. Math standard score
2. Reading standard score
3. Lottery

For 1st-8th Classical it’s:

1. Math + Reading standard score
2. Math standard score
3. Reading standard score
4. Lottery

[AT]

Does sibling preference matter at all?

[Applying Parent]

No, there’s only sibling preference for choice programs, not for selective.

[evagreen]

But based on our experience last year for K entrance, the other kid had higher math score, and their total scores were the same, but my kid ranked much higher than the other kid on WL. Unless it’s totally lottery? Not sure how much other thing would be considered for tiebreakers. Such as month of born? Gender? Sibling? (We do have an older sibling in the same school, not sure it was actually considered or not). We have a RGC offer so I can’t know the WL ranking of my kid now. It’s a tough situation that whether I should accept the RGC offer? (even if I turn off the RGC offer we may get accepted to another RGC immediately as my kid got a relatively high score on RGC test this year) Or should I wait for the possibility of getting into the same classical school with my older one? That’s why I’m so curious of the WL ranking for tiebreakers.

[ABCparent]

I would not turn it down unless the school is completely no longer feasible. I was in a similar situation 2 years ago. I wanted an RGC but got a classical offer and almost turned it down but I’m glad I didn’t

[evagreen]

Thanks for your advice. Yes, logistic is a main concern for us but still feasible.

[LSmom]

While the percentile and total points may be the same, my guess is that the child’s individual reading and math score differs slightly.

[evagreen]

It was so funny. Their individual score is completely the same, just math and reading are opposite. The same situation last year. They are best friends and we both feel it is really cute coincidence.

[AAS_Mom]

Anyone have a sense for how much the wait list moves at Pritzker?
We have an offer from NTA RGC for Kindergarten (242.5/300). Seems like that is above the cut score for our Tier (3) at Pritzker, but the middle of the pack for Pritzker overall. Does anyone have a sense if that seems very unlikely or probable that we might get an offer for Pritzker. We based our SEES list purely off distance, but the more I look into it I think Pritzker might be significantly better.

Also anyone have any feedback on the RGC program at NTA? There seems to be very little info.

[LB]

New to the process. Can someone help me understand when waitlist offers start going out to families? Like anytime now as the lists move(specially if you are #1/2 on the wait list) or only after the 5/2 deadline do waitlist offers get made?

[Vin]

I have the same question. Hoping someone with experience with this can answer

[2kids2cats2manybooks2count]

Tier 3
classical reading percentile: 66
classical math percentile: 79
rgc composite: 148
RGC pt total: 270/300
Classical pt total: 172.5/300

K entry, Bell offer (1st choice so no other WL to share)

In case there are parents wondering how tests at the age of 4 might point to their kid’s strengths, we did no prep, no effort to study or boost reading/math performance, just wanted to get a baseline, an idea of his brain as it’s developing. I found it interesting, that our results illustrate the difference between testing achievement for specific reading/math skills and testing critical thinking, reasoning, & problem solving.

[guest]

My daughter is #8 waitlisted tier 4 for K at bronzeville. Does she have a chance? Or should I start looking for private?

[Author]

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