Dewey Elementary School has 330 students and 74 employees, with an average class size of 20. Of Dewey’s 30 teachers, 65% hold a master’s degree or higher. Its student body is diverse, including 140 White students, 50 Black students, 77 Hispanic students, 30 Asian students and 45 disabled students, as of 2024.

The mural in Dewey’s hallway reflects the school’s diversity and values. Painted by the 2022 graduating fifth-graders to commemorate their time at Dewey, it features a heart supported by a tree trunk, with the school’s name across the heart and branches extending outward. Words on the branches represent the values the school embraces. When the artwork was unveiled, students appreciated that it was bilingual.

“Making the mural was really fun, and just being there and making a mark was pretty cool,” said previous student and current freshman Samuel Bray.

There are 16 languages spoken at Dewey, and the school incorporates these languages into students’ learning. There are six two-way immersion classrooms in which students are educated in languages other than English.

In addition to these immersion classrooms, the school holds events such as its Lunar New Year celebration and culture festival. Dewey also offers after-school programs, like art club. The club makes an effort to collaborate with local restaurants and businesses, connecting students with other members of the Evanston community. 

These programs and events help foster a sense of belonging and engagement for all students at Dewey