Each day, 300 students–supported by a teacher-to-student ratio of 14 to 1–attend Lincolnwood Elementary School, where the motto is “Where Every Child is a Superstar!” Students have the option to begin their day with a healthy, school-provided breakfast, setting the stage for meaningful and engaging learning experiences.
Meeting once a week before school for seven weeks, students grades two through five can also participate in the Readers Theatre program. In this program, students recreate stories without props, costumes or memorization, focusing instead on bringing text to life through expressive voices, facial expressions and movement. It offers a supportive, growth-oriented environment that students love.
“Readers Theatre offers a chance for kids to get out in the morning and be with their classmates and perform together,” said Michael Dice, the director of the program.
The school’s Readers Theatre program has exploded in popularity since Principal Laura Pinsof arrived for the 2022–23 school year. Pinsof embraced reopening the school to parents and volunteer initiatives.
“Coming out of COVID and remote learning, there just seemed to be an absence of enrichment opportunities at our schools,” said Dice.
Students have plenty of opportunities to explore new interests and activities. Third graders invented a conga line bit, and last year’s fifth graders performed 10-minute pieces from “The Wild Robot.”
“It’s the highlight of the year to pile into the library and see how excited the kids are [to come together and perform],” said Dice. “It’s 10 minutes, but it’s the world to them.”
Lincolnwood also offers computer coding segments in their STEM classes, sports including football, basketball and track and field, art club and chorus.
The STEP (Structured Teaching Education Program) serves students who need specialized support, particularly students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The Lincolnwood PTA aims to involve all families in a districtwide effort to strengthen community and engagement without screens. Families are encouraged to contribute at whatever level they can to help maintain programs that support all students, including academic programs, extracurricular activities and community events.
