Intrinsic Schools was founded by a team of educators from Chicago Public Schools to create a new, excellent public school option for middle and high school students in Chicago.
We provide a strong academic foundation through challenging, grade-level instruction. Intrinsic students learn to think critically, solve problems, communicate clearly and reflect on their learning.
Because success in young adulthood also requires a strong sense of self, the ability to work well with others, and the tenacity to rebound from challenges, we explicitly teach and help students live out our EPIC values of Empathy, Perseverance, Identity and Curiosity.
Strong Instruction. We personalize instruction and encourage independence using “PODs.” PODs are our classrooms, but they are flexible and look different: Each POD has three team teachers and upwards of 60 students, who rotate between teacher-led instruction, independent and small-group work, and project-based learning – all based on the individual needs of each student.
Exposure & Opportunities. Intrinsic students learn to identify their interests, and how to link those interests with an individualized postsecondary pathway. Over time, students develop a deep sense of who they are and their emerging life’s purpose, and learn to tie today’s decisions with their postsecondary aspirations, academic planning, and short- and long-term goals.
