FAQs

Diverse learners whose learning capacities are constrained in a traditional classroom, often due to anxiety, challenges with attention, or other unsupported neurodiverse needs. Read our story

Metro takes a whole-child, student-centered approach to education. With small pod-based learning groups, individualized instruction, integrated movement, and experiential learning opportunities, the school is designed to support not just academic growth, but also social, emotional, and personal development. The result is a learning environment where students are known, engaged, and empowered.

We believe a coordinated, team-based approach to teaching is important in helping our students realize their greatest potential, academically and social-emotionally. Individualized learning plans are created in conjunction with teachers, the school counselor and curriculum specialist, along with outside providers to ensure we are establishing attainable goals and implementing effective strategies. We conduct tri-annual benchmarking to evaluate student progress. Faculty communicate regularly throughout the day to support our students as needed. explore our academic approach

Individualized learning is at the core of the Metro model. Teachers design instruction that meets students where they are, both academically and socially, and adjust pacing and content as needed. In addition to small-group learning within pods, students also have access to 1:1 sessions that allow them to dive deeper into specific interests or receive targeted support.

Our highly-skilled faculty hail from multi-faceted backgrounds in both public and private schools as well as therapeutic settings. Metro faculty either hold a master’s degree or are in the process of pursuing an advanced degree. Our full-time social worker leads our social-emotional curriculum and we have trained ancillary staff available to support students when needed. We also have a full-time gym and art teacher as well as a librarian.

Professional development is critical in helping our faculty evolve and continue to meet the needs of our students. We attend conferences and workshops throughout the year as well as collaborate regularly with top educational, developmental and mental health professionals across Chicago and nationally to ensure Metro’s team is implementing effective learning strategies and tools to support each child academically, socially and emotionally on a daily basis.
Meet our Team

At Metropolitan Schoolhouse, therapeutic support is woven into the fabric of the school day. Our teachers are trained to incorporate social-emotional and regulatory strategies into daily learning, helping students build skills in real time as they navigate academic and social experiences.

In addition, social workers are part of the school community and play an active role in supporting students, monitoring progress, and collaborating with teachers to ensure each child is supported holistically. Students also participate in dedicated social-emotional learning (SEL) classes and curriculum to further develop skills such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal communication.

For families who choose to work with outside providers, we welcome those professionals into the school setting when appropriate, allowing for continuity of care without disrupting the student’s day. This integrated approach ensures that support feels natural, consistent, and responsive to each child’s needs.

We believe that a strong partnership between our faculty, families and outside providers is critical to our students’ success, and collaborate as needed to help establish attainable goals, implement strategies and foster areas of strength and growth. Outside providers are welcome to offer therapeutic services at school.

Each day is thoughtfully structured to balance academic learning, movement, and exploration. Students engage in core academic work, collaborative projects, and regular outdoor time, along with rotating experiences such as movement-based activities, and field-trips, and after-school clubs. The schedule is designed to keep students engaged while supporting focus, flexibility, and well-being.

Field trips are an integral part of the learning experience at Metro. Each year includes a major, multi-day trip, along with smaller overnight and day trips throughout the year. These experiences extend classroom learning into real-world contexts, helping students build independence, strengthen relationships, and engage more deeply with the subjects they study.

Metro is located at 2464 N. Clybourn in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. Metro’s multi-sensory environment was professionally designed to help students ready their bodies and minds for learning. Request a tour