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MCNAIR

4820 W WALTON St

Chicago, Illinois 60651

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School Overview

Each CPS school is a dynamic and vibrant learning community with so many different ways students can thrive. We’re so happy to share all the great things that make our school a great place to learn!

A Message from the Principal

A Message from the Principal

A Message from the Principal

Dear McNair Students, Families, and Community Members, I want to welcome you and your family to McNair School of Excellence. Whether you are returning to our halls or joining our school family for the very first time, we are thrilled to have you with us as we embark on a year filled with learning, growth, and discovery. Our school proudly carries the legacy of Dr. Ronald E. McNair, laser physicist, astronaut, and pioneer. Dr. McNair showed the world that with curiosity, discipline, and courage, there are no boundaries to what one can achieve. That same spirit forms the foundation of our mission here. We are dedicated to providing an inspiring and rigorous academic environment where every student is encouraged to think critically, explore passionately, and reach for their highest goals. Our educators and staff work tirelessly to build a safe, inclusive, and supportive culture where every child feels valued and empowered. However, true educational success is a partnership. We strive to have genuine relationships with our families. We deeply value the collaboration between home and school, and we invite our families and community members to stay engaged, participate in school activities, and maintain open communication with us throughout the school year. To our students: Bring your energy, your curiosity, and your best effort every single day. Support your classmates, try new things, and never be afraid to shoot for the stars. Thank you for your partnership, trust, and dedication to our school community. My door is always open, and I look forward to an extraordinary year of learning and achievement together. Warm regards, Dr. Benetrice Whitfield

State of the School

The State of the School address provides a robust community forum to reflect on the past year's progress, discuss future priorities, and align school goals with the District's five-year strategic plan, "Success 2029: Together We Rise."

  • Date: Monday, November 02, 2026
  • Time: 3 pm - 4 pm
  • Room: Multi-Purpose 111
  • Parking: Limited

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PK-8

School Grades

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330

# of Students

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District

Governance

Contact Usemail icon

773-534-8980
Phone

773-534-0668
Fax

Visit Website

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7:30 AM-2:30 PM
School Hours

7:20 AM
Earliest Dropoff

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Benetrice Leneice Whitfield
Principal

Samiena Singleton
Assistant Principal

Courtnie Nides
Special Education Administrator

School Menus

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Data About This School

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Effective Instruction

Data about student learning, achievement and classroom curriculum.

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Systems for Student Experience

Data about student progress, classroom support and the school environment.

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Connectedness & Wellbeing

Data about student attendance, health supports and access to enriching activities.

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Postsecondary Success

Data about student readiness for college, careers and life after graduation.

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Partnerships & Engagement

Data about how families, community and the school work together to support student learning.

Public Transit

Public Transit

CTA Bus

54, 57, 66, 70

CTA Train

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How We Partner for Continuous Improvement

District Investments

CPS is committed to providing the resources needed to provide a high-quality education for all our students. Strategic investments are equitably distributed to support school initiatives and priorities that drive student growth.

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Continuous Improvement Work Plan (CIWP)

This three-year strategic plan is prepared by each school’s CIWP team (school leadership, staff, parents, LSC members, community members, and others) to outline the school’s initiatives and priorities to improve student outcomes.

Continuous Improvement Work Plan (CIWP)

This three-year strategic plan is prepared by each school’s CIWP team (school leadership, staff, parents, LSC members, community members, and others) to outline the school’s initiatives and priorities to improve student outcomes.

View Plan

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