Catalyst Circle Rock Charter School
Catalyst Circle Rock is more than just a school; it is a vibrant, dynamic community committed to fostering the growth and development of the whole child. Located in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, we serve Kindergarten through 8th Grade scholars, providing an inclusive, culturally rich environment where each student feels valued, empowered, and ready to succeed.
At Catalyst Circle Rock, we understand that education is not just about academic achievement—it’s about preparing students to be well-rounded, confident individuals who will go on to become change agents for their communities and the world. Our mission is guided by the principle of “Teaching minds and touching hearts,” and we are intentional about how our school looks, feels, and sounds.
“When you find a place where you feel called to be and you realize you have the potential to change lives, it is immense and wonderful.”
Jessica Knight
Catalyst Circle Rock
5th Grade Teacher
We pride ourselves on creating a school culture where scholars celebrate who they are and take pride in their cultural heritage. We provide opportunities for students to explore both "windows" and "mirrors"—the opportunity to learn about themselves and the world around them. This approach allows our students to see their own experiences reflected in what they learn, while also broadening their understanding of others' perspectives.
Our school theme, “One Team, One Goal,” reflects our collective commitment to working together—staff, scholars, and families—to achieve excellence. At Catalyst Circle Rock, we treat our community like family, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued. We aim to develop leaders, thinkers, and innovators, and our work is rooted in the belief that when we come together as one team, we can accomplish anything.
As a Leader in Me school, we empower our scholars to take on leadership roles, not just in the classroom but in all aspects of their lives. We provide the tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to develop self-awareness, responsibility, and the ability to make positive contributions to their community.
Our rigorous academic curriculum is complemented by strong social-emotional learning programs and a focus on character development. We believe that academic success and personal growth go hand in hand, and our scholars are encouraged to embrace both their intellect and their unique identity.
We are proud to say that 100% of Catalyst Circle Rock graduates of high school age are enrolled and on track to graduate from high school. Our Graduate Support program is an essential component of our mission, ensuring that scholars not only have the academic tools but also the social-emotional tools they need to succeed in high school, college, and beyond.
At Catalyst Circle Rock, we don’t just teach—we nurture, support, and challenge our students to reach their fullest potential. We are dedicated to creating a school community that celebrates diversity, fosters pride, and provides the foundation for a lifetime of success. Together, we work to develop the whole child, ensuring that every scholar who walks through our doors leaves prepared to change the world.