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A Historic Commitment to Education
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The School Grounds
 Oakton School was built in 1914 and is one of Evanston's oldest and most beautiful schools. On the interior walls are glazed tile inlays and vivid murals done in the 1930's by the WPA. Located on spacious wooded grounds in a neighborhood of single family and vintage apartment buildings, it is an ideal learning and sharing environment.
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 Commitment to students extends beyond the classroom. For example, teachers sponsor a Foreign Language Club in conjunction with Oakton Community College. Students may take either Spanish or French for a fee. In addition, teachers serve as coaches for flag football, basketball and running club.
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Oakton's Teachers
Adopting the motto, "Children First," represents a caring staff's commitment to its students, helping each realize his or her maximum potential. The faculty has received recognition for their contributions to education, including nominees and winners of the Most Effective Educator, Teacher of the Year, and Golden Apple Award. Staff members belong to District 65 curriculum committees and serve as master teachers in the District Cadre Program. Many have advanced degrees in Education and related studies. Support staff include full-time social worker, psychologist, speech-language clinician, learning resource specialist, and four reading specialists. 
An Innovative Curriculum
The University of Chicago Math Program, National-Louis University Reading Fluency Program, and Northwestern's Math Enrichment Program are all part of the curriculum of Oakton School. The concept of "block scheduling," allowing teachers to focus on core subjects for uninterrupted blocks of time has been adopted. A Reading Resource Center was created to develop and enhance reading skills at all levels. The staff fosters reading through daily library visits, reading labs, and reading incentive/award programs. As added enrichment, there is a Young Authors writing program and the Junior Great Books program, as well as Books and Breakfast, Battle of the Books and Comtemporary Classics events. Technology literacy is a priority with Macintosh computers standard equipment in each classroom and lesson plans which integrate technology.
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Character Counts
 Through teaching students the "Six Pillars of Character Counts": Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship, Oakton School fosters a safe and harmonious environment. This nationally recognized program emphasizes the development of good character in all students.
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 A Rich Exposure to the Arts
The Arts are an integral part of Oakton School's educational experience. The school is proud to have full time teachers in Art, Music and Library. Art covers the walls and performances such as Winterfest, Chorus, and Fine Arts Night occur throughout the year. Over the last few years, the school inaugurated an annual Artist-in-Residence program to bring an array of artists into the school. Students are also able to be members of the Ralph Raphael Dancers.
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Legend of Charlemagne Mural
Art done in the 1930's by artist's commissioned by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) adorns the corridors of Oakton School. It's enough to bring out the creativity in anyone.
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 Oakton School's Sundial
This 1936 stone carved sundial, also done by WPA artists, graces the grounds of Oakton School.
Extended-Day Child Care Program
The district program of before and after school child care is available on-site for families, for a fee. An experienced staff provides a safe and fun environment for school age children.
Parental Involvement
Parents are encouraged to participate in a wide array of activities, and as a result, they are an integral part of Oakton School. The School Improvement Team, PTA, and Parent Resource Teams are active groups to plan programs and monitor club activities, including One-on-One Tutoring. |
Chess Club
 Oakton School has had a very successful chess club and have been two-time state champions. These champions have gone on to Chute and Evanston Township High School and have further distinguished themselves. Evanston is known to produce great chess champions! Great beginnings can start at Oakton School.
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