Prairie Crossing Charter School in Grayslake

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	9/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Illinois Assessment of Readiness data from Illinois State Board of Education, and using 2025 Illinois Science Assessment data from Illinois State Board of Education.
Student Growth	7/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student growth data from Illinois State Board of Education.

Posted: August 28, 2026

I would strongly encourage any parent considering PCCS, especially a parent of a child with an IEP, ADHD, sensory needs, or behavioral challenges, to look beyond the campus and environmental philosophy and ask very specific questions about supervision, student behavior, special education data, and what happens when supports are not working. In our experience, serious concerns were often met with vague answers, slow processes, and repeated redirection to meetings instead of clear information about what was actually being done. We also had real concerns about inadequate supervision and students behaving in ways that were openly disrespectful and disruptive toward teachers. What concerned us most was how much effort it took to get basic answers about data collection, progress monitoring, and intervention effectiveness while our child continued to struggle. There are caring individual teachers at PCCS, but the systems around them did not inspire confidence, and I would urge prospective families to ask hard questions before enrolling.

Posted: March 4, 2026

I am a former student: do not send your child here if they are disabled. They treated me horribly and punished me for showing benign neurological symptoms due to my disorder and stress by suspending me for a week when they were aware of the fact that I had a rare brain disorder.

They also made my life a nightmare when my grandfather died, my father left, my mom got divorced, and found out that I was moving in the span of two months.

Posted: March 4, 2026

Posted: December 2, 2025

There are many issues that need to be covered, however the biggest concern is the uncleanliness, my student and their class has experienced copious amounts of mouse poop in places such as the microwave, silverware drawer, lockers, on top of projects, and even in their shoes and personal items. Sometimes mice can be hard to keep out but it is getting to a point of hazard. When the towels that are used to clean the tables, that kids eat there lunches on, are being covered in mouse poop every night you its getting to a point where a change needs to be made.

Posted: October 27, 2020

We have been extremely happy with our choice to enter the lottery to get into PCCS. All three of our children have attended and are thriving here. With the accelerated math and advanced ELA classes along with the focus on environmental stewardship, leadership and community outreach we have been very happy with their education. During remote learning due to COVID-19 we have been floored by the lengths the school has gone to keep the students engaged and on track academically.

Posted: October 27, 2020

The teachers go above and beyond to ensure the students are engaged and learning. They are some of the most inspired and enthusiastic teachers I have ever met.

Posted: October 27, 2020

Along with a focus on environmental stewardship, the school also fosters cooperation and partnership between students. There are also student-led groups that encourage inclusion and compassion.

Posted: October 27, 2020

The administration has an open door policy with parents and really partners with parents to make the best environment possible for students.

Posted: October 27, 2020

Posted: February 2, 2019

Great ,because I go to this school now.

Posted: February 2, 2019

Posted: October 23, 2018

I have 1 child at this school and I LOVE the way the school incorporates nature and the importance of caring for our planet into learning lessons.

Posted: October 23, 2018

Posted: October 15, 2018

I have had three children at PCCS, and I cannot recommend it highly enough! The environmental education focus is so dynamic and impactful.

Posted: October 15, 2018

Posted: April 30, 2018

Prairie Crossing Charter School is truly a special place. The students have the opportunity for endless learning in and outside of the classroom. I attribute a large portion of my children's thirst of knowledge to PCCS. The teachers are engaged, attentive and supportive. I believe the environmental focus approach to learning, offers the children a healthy view of the the importance of our changing climate.The K-8 atmosphere, high academic standards and unique approach to learning is what made PCCS a clear and easy choice for our family.

Posted: April 19, 2018

So far we have had a very positive experience at the school. There is a lot of support for the kids from the teachers and support staff.

Posted: April 19, 2018

So far so good. My family is happy we made the move!

Posted: April 19, 2018

Homework is relevant to current in-class lessons

Posted: April 19, 2018

Teachers are more generally professional and competent than in other schools I've seen

Posted: April 19, 2018

Not always supportive of teachers, but generally acceptable

Posted: January 24, 2018

Prairie Crossing is a great school for learning everything you need to know outside the box!

Posted: November 6, 2017

The school discourages students with any IEP other than speech pathology or minor issues from attending. They don't want to have the expense of spec Ed students reduce their profitability.

Posted: November 6, 2017

Many MANY students have left because of unaddressed bullying. And physical abuse. If you are not a neighbor insider, you will be bullied by students AND staff.

Posted: November 6, 2017

We will be withdrawing our children at the end of the semester.

Posted: November 6, 2017

Homework is busywork, not effective for learning. Teachers follow a prescribed curriculum and do not accommodate individual learning styles and abilities.

Posted: November 6, 2017

Many teachers are parents of current students, and many live in the small subdivision where the majority of the students live.

Posted: November 6, 2017

Students reflect the way the leadership / teachers behave. If you don't live in the Prairie Crossing subdivision, and have elitist clothing, you are treated dismissively. Low-income students are definitely not welcome at this public school

Posted: November 6, 2017

Leadership has no educational background. The Executive Director is part-time and owns / runs his own business.

Posted: February 22, 2016

The students are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions. They also have a system in place for honoring good behavior.

Posted: February 22, 2016

My daughter attended Prairie Crossing from Kindergarten until mid-6th grade. Although no school is perfect, this school was the perfect setting for us. The most important aspects for me are maintaining & improving a student's academic & mental stability.

Posted: April 1, 2015

I am a student in 6th grade and I love this school. It has a amazing take on learning so that every student gets the help that they need. Prairie crossing has great friendly staff members who are very fun to work with. I am also challenged by this school and I want to get good grades. Finally are school features an outdoor classroom ( which means we learn outside and about the earth). I am grateful to be a prairie crossing student attending an amazing school.

Posted: April 1, 2015

I am in 6th grade and I really love this school. I have learned so much here at Prairie Crossing. I came here second grade and was welcomed into a happy community. On my first day, I made 7 friends. This school challenges me to get good grades. Tests are difficult but not overwhelming. Spanish is learning new words and not just staring into dictionary. Also, the staff members are helpful and friendly. One last thing, this school has a twist on the outdoor theme and we have spots where sit and write about what we see around us. If this closes because of woodland, I will not go there. I am proud to be a part of the Prairie Crossing community.

Posted: March 23, 2015

This school has a lottery system to get in poor or rich doesn't matter. If you have a child in a second child is put higher in priority to get in if a spot opens up. I have a child that is graduating with high honors from high school that went through here and his grades were hard to get A's so the academic environment is equivalent to woodland. He is also on an IEP and the school did accommodate his IEP by bringing in a aid for him. I have another child in high school also who is now in the highest math you can attend as a freshman he was two years ahead in math when we left woodland. PCCS was able to get him a advanced math along with 6 other students that allowed him to keep pace with this schedule. It has been my experience that most kids come out of PCCS more prepared for the high school work than those kids of woodland. They are doing it on less money and technology. This is a good school. The money travels with the student. How they are losing money on kids they are not educating is beyond me.

Posted: March 23, 2015

Exceptional learning environment for students with outstanding outcomes. State testing results are evident of the school's passion for learning.

Posted: February 16, 2015

I have attended PCCS for eight years. If you have written a review for PCCS and find only "rich" families can go here. Well then your wrong. And you gave Prairie Crossing no shot for you or your kid(s). To get into Prairie Crossing there is always a raffle. And your kids name goes on that waiting list. Once they get chosen automatically if they have siblings they will get in also. That's how my siblings got in. Prairie Crossing is a very environmental school that teaches kids so many great things a lot of other schools fail to do. Many students transfer from Woodland, Freemond or another school. But once they come to PCCS they will always be a PCCS student and they will never forget. How many times can you say I went outside and we wrote about the nature outside. Or we go out every single day? You can't because you can only experience this at Prairie Crossing. Yes, our school doesn't have a cafeteria and you have to pack your own lunches, and yes we don't have buses. But every school is different in its own unique way. And if other people can't see it then it's their problem not the schools. I love PCCS it feels like a home with all my friends and teachers. PCCS couldn't be better.

Posted: February 8, 2015

PCCS is accepting registrations for the 2015-2016 school year for all students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Students who live within Woodland District 50 or Fremont District 79 are eligible to attend PCCS, a free public school. Come to our Open House and learn more--Wednesday, February 18th at 7pm in the Comstock Building--1531 Jones Point Road in Grayslake. PCCS offers a personalized K-8 public school where children learn the value of education, community and the environment. Since 1999, Prairie Crossing Charter School has been providing an exceptional public school education to hundreds of families per year. With a maximum enrollment of 432 students in Kindergarten through 8th grade, we provide personalized attention that parents and students deserve and expect. Class sizes in each grade level are deliberately small. Students in all grade levels enjoy the instruction from a teacher and instructional assistant, ensuring the educational, social and emotional needs of every student are met.

Posted: November 10, 2014

I'm surprised and horrified with some of the reviews. I'm a parent, who recently moved to America from a foreign country. I think that the school has done everything they could to make the transition as easy as possible for my kid. I think the teachers are competent and actually care about the children. I have to agree, that it's a bit hard to find out about homework until you see a missing assignment in the Power School. My kid has never ever talked about bullying in her class, even though she speaks with an accent and might be a bit different, since she is a foreigner. It's true that the kids get tons of homework and have to work pretty hard. But I see that as the parents responsibility to make sure that they actually do it. You can't blame a teacher for that. I feel that the academic level is where it should be. I only have good things to say about the school and I hope that they will continue the great work many years from now.

Posted: October 29, 2014

PCCS is a great school compared to other schools in the other schools in the area. The only issue we see with this small school is that there is no way to know what is the expected homework and the due dates until you see an F grade in the Power School (web site) because it's missing Or late. By that time it's already late. As a result of NO advance communication from teacher to parent, the students suffer with bad grades. So be aware of some bad/lazy teachers at PCCS. This make PCCS an average school. So we quit.

Posted: January 28, 2014

I am the parent of a 4th grdr who has attended PCCS since K. In truth, I was already a supporter of the mission of the enviro focused curriculum, so this school is a great fit for us, but it's a wonderful alt for others too. It's not for everyone; kids here spend more time outdoors, getting dirty, journaling, going on extended trips, etc. than at other schools; please know what you are getting into before you decide to attend. Small schools will have the same problems any small environment has (think small town, workplace, etc.) but it also allows all of the benefits too; small class sizes, assistants in each class, feeling welcomed in classrooms-things that many parents say are missing in larger schools. Academics are still a high priority. Others try to argue this point but the results are not just in test scores (where PCCS excels) but also in the graduates it produces, most in AP classes at the top of their class in HS. Unique opportunities are given here to develop children into constructive thinkers. It's not perfect; no school is. It's smaller which means its warts seem larger in comparison but come see for yourself; it's not for everyone, but wonderful for those it serves.

Posted: May 26, 2013

Prairie Crossing is a mixed bag of good and bad. Some of the parents and spouses on the board chased away principals and some of the best teachers. There is is a new principal every years so if you don't like it wait a year it will change. The teachers are good but are underpaid. Many of the kids are cliqueish as are their parents. A friend who volunteered quit doing so because of parents wanted to micro manage everyone. It is always a danger when a volunteer thinks they own the place. this place has several parents that are famous for pecking at people. Over all, the education is far superior to Woodland, which does not have a gifted program either. It sends children who have been identified gifted out to night programs at other schools. Overall, the hands on experiences here and the special trips taken (often) for all grades makes this a superior education. This is proven in their scores on state tests. It shows again in high school as the PCC students regularly are chosen for Ap and honors classes over all others. Anyone in district can go there but there is always a wait list. It was worth the 2 year wait for us and we reccomend it over other grade schools in Illinois.

Posted: May 24, 2013

I attended PCCS from kindergarten to the middle of my sixth grade year. I currently attended a public high school 30 minutes from Grayslake and I have to say the academics At PCCS are a joke. I'm a fairly intelligent person and the school did nothing for anyone. We're essential taught to take standardized tests and following a hyper-environmental mindset. My math education was so poor and behind my current districts average I had a C- average my entire seventh grade year once I moved. I also was taught essential no grammar or sentence structure. Science is terrible because the school is too broke to afford and equipment. For Spanish-- a school requirement-- we are pretty much given a dictionary and told to translate words. Another concern of mine is the almost cult-like attitude. Kids who are different are shunned. If you have a view towards the "green lifestyle" that differs from teachers you're put down and told yo're wrong. Overall the education I received was awful and the staff really were not great at all.

Posted: November 21, 2012

I am a student at this school, let me just say they do bully a lot over here. starting from 5th grade and up. They focus to much on prairie and plants and all that, but they do not focus on math science or any like that. Our school does not have so much money and so they can not buy any science equipment. I currently go to this school and I would recommend to go somewhere like twin groves in buffalo grove or daniel wright in Lincolnshire.

Posted: June 24, 2012

Educational requirements are higher and that is why we chose this school.. the bullying is OUT OF CONTROL.. they have no policy nor course of action for this.. BEWARE... while your child will get more homework and have a higher expectation- it is not worth the hassle.. too many parents are afraid to stand up and take action because its like a cult.. no one wants to go against the adminstration but it is FAR worse than the bullying at Woodland - mainly because at PCCS they turn a blind eye and at Woodland they address the issues right away. Be very careful when looking into this school- much of what they say is smoke and mirrors.. Ask multiple parents and kids before enrolling...

Posted: January 6, 2012

i love this school so much better than any other stinking schools. they r really boring. not 2 b mean, just my option.

Posted: October 25, 2011

This website requires fifteen words. I had planned on just writing one. NIGHTMARE. But there are my fifteen words.

Posted: May 29, 2011

Some this these reviews are so obviously posted by people who pose as concerned parents but are clearly simply detractors that it's laughable. All schools have pluses and minuses. Our daughter has thrived at PCCS and we have been pleased at the quality of the teachers and the welcoming atmosphere. And give me a break - "our child is gifted and that is why he/she is disruptive"?? Wake up, Parent!

Posted: May 1, 2011

Our son was a struggling student at Woodland and this wonderful school took him to a level where he is now receiving above average grades. I would take negative comments on this site with a grain of salt, given the unionized area public school teachers are against the experimentation and out-of-the-box thinking employed by these charter schools. Kudos to PC for bringing the area a new brand of public school to our area, we are very lucky to have them in Grayslake.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Woodlake Apartments	Apartment Complex	Gurnee	IL	4.3 mi
2	Forest City Nimitz	Neighborhood/Subdivision	North Chicago	IL	7.1 mi
3	Forrestal Military Community	Neighborhood/Subdivision	North Chicago	IL	7.4 mi
4	Reserve at Eagle Ridge	Apartment Complex	Waukegan	IL	9.6 mi

#	Name	City	State	Overall Rating	Distance
1	Libertyville	Libertyville	IL		4.3 mi
2	Waukegan	Waukegan	IL		8.5 mi

Base	Distance
Great Lakes Naval Station	8 mi.
Coast Guard Chicago	39.5 mi.
General Mitchell ANGB Milwaukee	42.6 mi.
Coast Guard Milwaukee	46.5 mi.

Prairie Crossing Charter School

Grayslake, IL 60030

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Prairie Crossing Charter School

Grayslake, IL 60030

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