You Belong Here

CICS Ralph Ellison Academy

Home of the Lions

Our CICS Ralph Ellison Academy campus is committed to providing students with a rigorous college preparatory education that fosters the intellectual skills, cultural competence, self-belief, and community engagement essential for success in school, college, the workplace, and life.

Named after the renowned African American writer and educator Ralph Ellison, who gained international acclaim with his groundbreaking novel Invisible Man, our school embodies his transformative insights into race, identity, and the American experience. Since opening in August 2006, Ralph Ellison Academy has distinguished itself through its dedication to cultivating a vibrant community of learners.

Our educators work collaboratively with students to support their academic, social, and personal development, ensuring each individual thrives.

Home of 
the Lions

Welcome to CICS Northtown Academy, the world at home. As the most diverse charter school in Chicago, our vibrant community is shaped by a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and backgrounds. Through rigorous academics, partnership opportunities, and a wide array of student clubs and initiatives, we empower every student to excel, find their voice, and truly belong. As a college-preparatory school, we are unwavering in our commitment to academic excellence, ensuring that every student is equipped for success in college and beyond.

Our Impact on Student Success

Student to Teacher Ratio

0 :1

High School Graduation Rate

0 %

College Admittance

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News & Announcements

Student Supply list for 2025-2026 School Year

Prepare for Success!!! Show up to school and class every day and on time!

Title I Parent Meeting

At this meeting, we will review and distribute the documents listed below. We will also ask for your opinions on using Title I Parent Involvement funds.

JKL Members Hit the Ice at Blackhawks Practice Center

There is Still Time to Become an Ellison Lion

Members of JKL - 'Just Keep Living' Explore, Learn, and Grow outside the walls of a classroom!!

JUNETEENTH - HBCU Real Talk

Real Talk is a career and college exploration initiative designed to connect Black students and families with Black professionals and representatives from colleges and access organizations across the country.

News & Announcements

Student Supply list for 2025-2026 School Year

Prepare for Success!!! Show up to school and class every day and on time!

Title I Parent Meeting

At this meeting, we will review and distribute the documents listed below. We will also ask for your opinions on using Title I Parent Involvement funds.

JKL Members Hit the Ice at Blackhawks Practice Center

There is Still Time to Become an Ellison Lion

Members of JKL - 'Just Keep Living' Explore, Learn, and Grow outside the walls of a classroom!!

JUNETEENTH - HBCU Real Talk

Student Services

Quick Links

Alumni Spotlight

Alante Ward

Class of 2011

Our preparatory period was some of the strongest academic building I’ve ever had—it taught me how to think on my feet, and think out of the box.

Most of all, it was the personal interactions and developments that set me up for college. The time that teachers took to help us outside of their academic schedules was so helpful. I think you can appreciate college more if you’ve gone through that high school journey and you come fully prepared.

Alumni Spotlight

Anthony Driver

Class of 2011

I was not just learning academically, but growing as a person, growing in character.

Ralph Ellison was the kind of nurturing environment with an open-door policy for students to talk to teachers. The test prep at CICS Ralph Ellison was also very helpful—especially with my ACT scores. I came in at a 19, and left with a 27. That preparation was a huge boost for getting into college.