As we step into a brand-new school year, we’re filled with excitement, hope, and deep gratitude for the journey ahead. This year, we’re anchored by belonging, consistency, and coherence—guiding principles that will shape every classroom, hallway, and school community across our network.
At Distinctive Schools, we believe that all means all—every learner deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated. We are committed to nurturing learner agency, empowering students to take ownership of their growth and voice, and building thriving communities where students, staff, and families feel a strong sense of connection and purpose.
Summer Preparations for the Coming School Year!
All summer long, our schools have continued to plan and prepare for the upcoming year. From professional development to refinished floors, our schools and leaders are excited to kick off the year very soon! While preparations took place inside school, our teams were also all around the city this summer! Our Community School Coordinators and other staff have been busy tabling and promoting our incredible schools. Did you see us at the Woodson Library Branch, the National Night Out, or anywhere else this summer? Tag us on Instagram or Facebook!
And if you’re headed to the Bud Billiken Parade & Festival this Saturday, stop by table #73, just east of the parade route and off of Ellsworth Drive to say hi and grab some swag!
Are You Ready for Back-to-School?
This week, we welcomed over 80 incredible new educators to the Distinctive Schools team during our annual New Teacher Institute (NTI)! Designed to build strong relationships and spark collaboration, NTI immersed new team members in the heart of the Distinctive Schools way—centered on belonging, excellence, and joyful learning.
Through a week of connection, learning, and shared purpose, our new team members will leave NTI prepared for the school year ahead and ready to partner with students and families in a journey where all learners thrive. We’re thrilled to have them on board—this year is already off to an inspiring start!
See you next week!: The CICS Loomis Back-to-School event will be Friday, August 15, from 1pm–4pm, at our campus! See your friends, meet your teachers, and join us for fun before our first day of school on Monday, August 18!
Still looking for your family’s inspiring start to the school year? We have a few seats available for this coming school year! Learn more, apply, and tour CICS Loomis today!
Ride the Bus!
Did you know that CICS Loomis offers bus transportation? This service is designed to support our families and ensure a smooth, joyful start and end to each school day!
How to Apply: Seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. All interested families must complete the Bus Transportation Interest Form as soon as possible. Please name all children on the form.
Important: Completing the interest form does not guarantee a spot on the bus, as space is limited. You must be an enrolled CICS Loomis student to qualify.
Bus Stops: For efficiency, our bus routes will utilize centralized depot stops for pick-up and drop-off, rather than door-to-door service.
Next Steps: After you submit the form, a team member will reach out to confirm your interest, discuss any individual needs, and provide further details if a seat is granted (including bus route information and a permission slip).
Have any additional questions? Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions for more information or reach out to our team: lms.enroll@distinctiveschools.org.