ISBE grants Jen School’s request to admit female students

July 12, 2017– Maryville’s Jen School, which provides specialized academic and vocational education, and social emotional learning, will begin accepting female students in the fall of 2017. The school’s request to go coed was granted by the Illinois State Board of Education this week.

“This is an opportunity to offer our unique program to young women,” said Jen School Principal Anne Craig.

Unlike all other specialized education programs in the region, Jen’s program will be gender specific for academics and physical education classes. Programs will be integrated for vocational training, Chicago Area Alternative Education League sports, and all-school activities.

Female students in grades nine through 12 are eligible. The Jen School admits male students grades five through 12. The Jen School, which opened its doors in 2007, uses diverse teaching methods, technology and innovative curriculums to help students achieve academic and vocational success.

The Jen School has been named a School of Excellence by the National Association of Special Education Teachers for four years in a row. This distinction is given to a select number of private special education schools that meet rigorous professional criteria and have demonstrated exceptional achievement in the field of special education.

“The success of our students is due in large part to our dedicated Jen School staff,” said Maryville Executive Director Sister Catherine M. Ryan, O.S.F.  “We have a team of professionals at the Jen School who are deeply committed to the students and determined to help them succeed.”