School Overview

Richards Career Academy (RCA)...where every Student is Known, Valued, and Inspired. RCA offers 2 award-winning Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs -- Culinary Arts and Business/Entrepreneurship. Due to the unique 4x4 Block schedule, students have an opportunity to earn 8 credits per school year and more options in their schedule for Early College coursework and opportunities. With more than 12 after-school Clubs, and 11 + Athletics Teams there is something for everyone at RCA! As 1 of 20 Sustainable Community Schools (SCS) in CPS, RCA embraces the SCS movement to create radical change and success for young people, their families, and the community. Thriving at RCA looks like living out the 6 Pillars of SCS: 1) Curricula that are culturally relevant, engaging, and challenging; 2) High Quality Teaching; 3) Wrap Around Supports; 4) Restorative Justice and Social-Emotional Learning Development; 5) Authentic Engagement of Parents, Family, & Community; 6) Inclusive School Leadership. Richards is the host site for the Back of the Yards Parent University where parents and families can access a wide variety of services and educational programs.