CLEF Schools Prove Safe, In-Person Learning Can Be Done!

Our 22 schools have been open for safe, in-person learning since the school year began. Today is no different. Our students are safely learning, our teachers are safely teaching, and real education is happening daily. Since the CLEF network includes 22 schools, we have several pre-schools, elementary schools, middle schools and one high school in Chicago that we financial support. This year, CLEF gave over $890,000 in student scholarships and almost $500,000 in teacher salary support- making sure every child that wants a private education can afford one, and every teacher be financially comforted for their extreme dedication.

On February 3rd, while CPS and CTU were in negotiations about returning to the classroom, Our Saviour Lutheran Preschool, one of the many CLEF preschools, celebrated their 100th day of in-person learning. These children have flourished this year, and their continual education will set the stage for higher growth. To find an in-person CLEF school in your neighborhood, visit our Find-A-School page. 

The Chicagoland Lutheran Educational Foundation was formed over twenty-seven years ago with one simple goal in mind – to keep Chicago’s Lutheran schools open. During this pandemic, our goal has remained the same. Our children prosper under attentive, in-person learning. Therefore, our schools have followed all the CDC guidelines, put extra PPE in place, and adjusted schedules and classroom formation in order to serve our students. Our principals, teachers and administrative staff have gone above and beyond to provide superior education for individual needs. Low teacher-to-student ratios deliver individualized instruction and small class sizes craft a collaborative environment to support real-world learning and help students approach their studies with enthusiasm and curiosity. Each school serves its community, according to their unique needs, as deemed by the principal and staff. CLEF lives to serve others and provide scholarship support, resources, programs, and other services as the school asks.

CLEF’s mission is to empower urban Lutheran schools to deliver innovative, quality education in a Christian environment. While each school has its own identity, all are staffed by compassionate teachers and administrators dedicated to the success of their children. Thanks to the generous support of our Board of Directors, who cover the cost of CLEF’s operating expenses, 100 percent of every dollar funds programs and services that directly benefit our schools and the students they serve. If you would like to donate, please visit our Donate page.