Greetings, AIM Family– 

Dr. Mae Jemison once said, “Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” Art in Motion, the school, is more than just a school; it is a philosophy that says that things can be - and should be - different for students, for families, for community. That the imaginings of society do not dictate who we are or who we are destined to be. Now, this posture is difficult for many because so many have bought into the identity that is assumed of them, but we work at AIM to deconstruct those assumptions and to hack academically, artistically and socio-emotionally the greater world created for members of our AIM Family.

We are providing AIM Campus Expansion Progress tours; connecting with granting organizations and partners; receiving visits from folks like Joakim Noah through his community engagement work (thanks, Mr. Curry and Mr. Steele!); running robust AIM Studio (after school) programs; smashing High School Academic Approach data & Middle School testing – all to break cycles, shift tides and move the needle on an opportunity our students deserve. Thank you for being a part of the magic; thank you for seeing through the weeds into the light. You are valued; your children are valued; together, we are AIM. 

–Kara May, AIM Director of Partnerships & Creative Development     

“Own your magic, walk in your purpose, and rock your truth.” 

— Beverly Bond

Common toured the expansion space! Check out his reaction in this video:

*The information below was shared with families on March 22, 2023.

Dear Art In Motion Family – 

We hope this letter finds you well. We are reaching out to provide an update on our expansion project. Earlier this month we were excited to see the rooftop units installed (see here on social media if you missed it!) – we’re making great progress and have so much to look forward to. While we expected to occupy the expansion this semester, due to construction delays beyond our control, including a concrete strike and supply shortage, we will not move in before the end of this school year. We are on target to be under one roof for the 2023-24 school year! 

We understand this news is disappointing, as we were all looking forward to enjoying the new space. We share your disappointment, and we want you to know that we are doing everything we can to ensure the project moves forward as smoothly and quickly as possible. Despite the delay, we are committed to finishing this school year strong and providing our students with the best possible educational experience.  

TAKE A TOUR: In exciting news – we are able to provide group tours of the expansion space for students, staff, and families! The first round of tours have started; in fact, there are two being held on Thursday, March 30 at 3:45pm & 4:15pm! If you’re interested in touring the space, please sign up for the Thursday, March 30 tour here! And don’t worry if you miss this round – more opportunities will be shared after Spring Break! 

We will start the 2023-24 school year in our new space, and we cannot wait to welcome you to it! Thank you for your understanding and support – we appreciate your patience. 

Sincerely,

Erin Lanoue, Chief Operating Officer for Distinctive Schools in partnership with Dion Steele, Principal of Art In Motion

Greetings Families, 

As we close out the 3rd Quarter, and take a much needed spring break, I am excited about how hard our students have been working. They have made tremendous gains on their last interim assessment at all grade levels. Last week the Middle Schoolers completed the annual IAR exam with a great sense of urgency.  

The week after we return from break, on the 12th of April, our Juniors will take the SAT. On the 18th of April, our 9th and 10th graders will take the mandatory Spring PSAT. Finally on the 26th of April, our 8th and 11th graders will take the ISA exam to test their knowledge in the sciences. 

This will conclude our major mandatory exam period for this school year, although our students will take their final school based interim exam to measure their growth throughout the year. I know that this level of preparation via exams can seem overwhelming but this is how we measure our instructional effectiveness; by our students' annual growth.  Thank you for your patience and concern.

Have a great Spring Break!

Sincerely,

Dion Steele, Principal of Art In Motion

The time is here! AIM Recruitment is in full swing and we are ready to welcome Accepted Families to AIM for our Accepted Family Open Houses! Our Accepted Family On-Site Open Houses will be held March 29th and April 13th at 6:00pm. 

We will also host a Virtual Accepted Family Open House April 11th at 5:00pm. If you would like to tour the Expansion Space and see our progress tomorrow, click here – however, there will be additional opportunities provided for family tours! We are in a great position to be able to show what we’ve been up to and what’s coming! Finally, as we progress towards the upcoming 2023-2024 school year, registration dates will be announced for returning as well as new students. 

Should you have any questions please feel free to email Ms. Rivers.

• My CHI. My Future.

The city is offering a variety of opportunities for youth during spring break through My CHI. My Future. Students can join a day of service with the Chicago Park District, attend a Chicago Public Library arts event, or build on their coding skills with Code Your Dreams. Young Chicagoans can also apply for summer jobs through One Summer Chicago and the Chicago Park District.

• Spring Forward Teen Bash on Saturday, April 8: My Chi. My Future. and the Chicago Park District are hosting a spring break party for Chicago residents ages 13-24. This event will take place from 1:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 8, at the Aon Ballroom in Navy Pier and will include musical guests, food, raffles, and information about summer job opportunities. Advance registration is required to take part in this bash. Click here to register and view this flyer for more details.

• Chicago Park District Summer Jobs