Please scroll down on this page as we attempt to answer many questions or to refer you to other places you can find the answer.

What is a Global Citizen (GC)?  Why is the idea worth living?

There are many definitions of and opinions about “global citizenship.” Our blog, GCE Voices (coming soon), is a platform for extended dialogue.  Please participate and share your ideas and questions.  For now, let’s begin with the following thoughts about GCs:

  • GCs understand that they are part of something much larger — many things in fact — families, friends, neighborhoods, cities, nations, races, religions, human evolution, collective gain and suffering…
  • GCs develop perspectives that are both micro and macro — they see things that are real and present, like the stores and strangers on their way to GCE, and the fact that stores exist and require currency as part of a financial system that has developed over time…
  • GCs consciously and actively develop certain values, attributes, and skills — compassion, empathy, understanding, patience, listening, kindness, thirst for learning, interest in the experiences of others…
  • GCs are civically engaged — they learn about themselves and the world and pursue ways to make the world a better place, to give more than they take…
  • GCs learn about the limits of human existence — carrying capacity, ecological balance, human potential, and they discover their place in this delicate balance of striving to push the boundaries without jeopardizing individual or collective health…
  • GCs learn how to learn, to make connections across time, history, and culture…

What is the GCE Community Fabric?

The Community Fabric is a visual representation of the many components of GCE that we weave together.  Each component is essential.  Each requires attention and planning.  Each one is worth explaining in detail, but not here.  Please email if you want to explore the fabric in greater detail.

Who is the ideal student for GCE Chicago High School?

Much more information can be found on the GCE Admissions page.  Almost all of the students accepted annually enter Year 1 (9th grade equivalent).  We will make a handful of exceptions for students in Years 2-4.   The expectation is that each individual is curious, determined, open, and has a love of learning.  The ideal student is part of a FAMILY that wants to learn and grow together.  This is not a utopian idea.  We anticipate typical family drama but the intention at all stages is that we are a community of learners.

Does the GCE provide scholarships?

As mentioned on the GCE Admissions page, scholarships are available.  Roughly 60% of GCE students receive scholarship dollars.  Please email us to learn more.

What is the expectation of parents/guardians?

The first thing to remember is that GCE is for FAMILIES, not just for students.  Families come in all shapes and sizes these days, and parents/guardians span the spectrum as well.  With regard to specific parent/guardian involvement it might be fair to repeat our expectations of students: curious, determined, open, and with a love of learning.  We ask parents to embrace their roles as active members of the GCE community.  We ask that they engage in discussions, that they participate in blogs, that they share their networks so that their children and other GCE students can gain meaningful exposures.  For more engaging information about parent programs, please see the “Parent/Guardian” section of our blog: GCE Voices (coming soon).

Where is the GCE located?

GCE Headquarters are located at the Day School Community Center: 800 W Buena, Chicago, IL 60613.  We hold classes in both the mansion and the Coach House.  Administrative offices are on the second floor of the coach house.  Drop-off and pick-up parking is available on Buena for the times when CTA, foot, or bicycle transportation is insufficient.

What are GCE’s hours?

Student hours are 9:00 am-3:30 pm if they participate in health/wellness activities elsewhere.  GCE health/wellness programming runs from 3:30 until 5pm, Monday-Thursday.

What does a “day in the life” of a GCE student look like?

Please see the following: Weekly Schedule.

What is the class size?

Class sizes typically range from 8 to 12 students.

What is GCE’s approach to safety on and off campus? Are students allowed to leave the premises without an adult?

GCE is only an “open campus” if parents give written permission on behalf of their children.  Our “open campus” policy is consistent with the curriculum expectations and accountability components best expressed in the Cultural Awareness section of the GCE Curriculum Guide. Students learn safe and savvy urban orienteering skills and we trust that they will be responsible ambassadors of their families and of GCE when off premises.

Does everyone start as a Freshmen  or does GCE enroll transfer students as well?

GCE enrolls transfer students as well as rising incoming freshmen.  Please email us if this applies to you.

How are students evaluated (grades or written evaluations)?

The GCE Team emphasizes and values consistent and meaningful student feedback in a range of forms (writing conference, peer edits, discussion, self-evaluation, etc).  In addition, all GCE Learning Units are aligned with and exceed Illinois State Standards.  And yes, GCE gives grades that reflect this thorough evaluation process.

We hope you will follow the link to learn more about our evaluation process.

If we have NOT answered your questions or if you have additional questions to submit, please email us directly.  Thank you.