Arthur Dixon Elementary School
Dixon Elementary School is located in the Chatham Avalon community on Chicago's southside. Chatham is a unique community in that 12% of all residents are 65 or older and therefore there are fewer school-age children. As a result, approximately 45% of the school's population come from communities outside of Chatham whose schools may be overcrowded. Dixon school serves 750 African American students, grades Pre-K through 8th.
Since 1987, Dixon School has been a participant in the Department of Equal Educational Opportunities Program's Options for Knowledge Program with an involvement in Fine Arts. There is also a strong emphasis on science, math, technology and entrepreneurial education. Dixon students participate in a number of unique, creative, and exciting programs designed to increase their exposure to business and career options.
There is a strong commitment by staff to address the multiple intelligences of students by providing a variety of learning opportunities and utilizing multiple teaching strategies. Learning is integrated across the curriculum and disciplines to develop a sense of identity and self esteem through multicultural education.
Dixon School is affiliated with the MacArthur Foundation through Youth Guidance and The Comer School Development Program. As a Comer School, Dixon utilized a systems approach to school management, using mental health principles of child growth and development and relationships. The guiding principles of no-fault, consensus decision making and collaboration are utilized and all decisions are made in the best interests of children by Dixon parents, teachers, administrators and other stakeholders working together.
Through the Inquiry Initiative, Dixon is engaged in examining strategies to positively impact on: teaching and learning; students achievement and progress, and ways to involve the wider community in the learning process. This process is aligned with the staff's deep commitment and willingness to examine ourselves and participate in self-assessment.
In an effort to inform others Dixon School will develop a Digital School Portfolio.
For more information, please contact:
Joan D. Crisler, Principal
Arthur Dixon Elementary School
8306 S. St. Lawrence Avenue
Chicago, IL 60619
773-535-3834
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