School History

History and Milestones

Chicago West Side Christian School was founded more than 55 years ago when African-American families from two multiracial West Side churches sought a safe, Christ-centered education for their children. After being denied enrollment at a nearby school during a time of racial tension, these families stepped forward in faith and determination. In 1969, the Lawndale Christian Education Committee established Chicago West Side Christian School, beginning with just six students in a borrowed Catholic school building before moving to Lawndale Christian Reformed Church.

Over the decades, Chicago West Side Christian School has grown through the commitment of families, churches, and supporters who believed deeply in its mission. In 2004 the school opened the doors to its current home here at 1240 S. Pulaski, doubling its capacity to serve students. Since then, the school has expanded programs to better serve students, including a comprehensive special education and student support program. Today, the school continues to grow while remaining rooted in the mission that began more than 55 years ago

1960s: African American families from two multiracial West Side churches sought Christian education but were denied enrollment at a Cicero school due to safety concerns
1969–1970: The Lawndale Christian Education Committee incorporated Chicago West Side Christian School; classes began with six students in a Catholic school building before moving to Lawndale CRC at 1241 S. Pulaski.
Early 1980s: Faced closure unless a sprinkler system was installed; a $150,000 capital campaign funded renovations, affirming that the school was here to stay.
1990s–2004: With land purchased at city scavenger sales, the board planned expansion. A $3.2 million campaign led to the new school building at 1240 S. Pulaski, doubling capacity
2006: Parents, donors, Kaboom!, and Discover employees helped build a new playground; later enhancements included gardens, green space, and an outdoor student art gallery
2011–2012: The school achieved dual accreditation through Christian Schools International and AdvancED (now Cognia), and earned Illinois state recognition, boosting credibility and opportunities
2017–2024: Through the Invest in Kids Act, families received nearly $375,000 in scholarships during the first three years, making Christian education more accessible
2020: Hired a Director of Diverse Learners to launch a comprehensive support program. Today, 15% of students have an IEP or 504 Plan and receive services including one-on-one support, accommodations, and speech therapy

Recent Years: Significant facility upgrades included a new HVAC system, classroom renovations, a redesigned lunchroom/library for STEM and Fine Arts, outdoor classrooms, foundation repair, and a new gym roof