GLA Admission FAQs
What grades does GLA serve?
GLA is a free, college preparatory elementary charter school serving families on the Southeast side of Chicago. GLA will offer grades Kindergarten through 8th grade for the 2023-24 school year.
How do I submit an application?
The 2023-24 Application is now open. Visit https://glachicago.schoolmint.net/signin to apply.
If I have more than one child do I need to fill out multiple applications?
Yes, an application will need to be filled out for each child.
How old does my child need to be to start Kindergarten?
All Kindergarten applicants must be 5 years old by 12/31/2023*.
*Families interested in applying to Kindergarten whose students’ birthdays are between 9/2/2018-12/31/2018 and are currently attending a certified Pre-K program can apply for Early Admission to Kindergarten! Read about our Early Admission eligibility process and criteria here, and if your student qualifies, submit an application here.
How are students selected to be admitted?
In 2023-24, Great Lakes Academy will hold lotteries for Kindergarten through 8th Grade students
What is a lottery?
All applicants will be entered into the lottery via an online lottery system called Schoolmint. Each grade-level lottery will be randomized via the SchoolMint website.
When will I know the results of the lottery?
The lottery will take place on Thursday, April 20, 2023. Parents / Guardians will be notified of results via text and email following the lottery.
How will I be notified of the results of the lottery?
Parents / Guardians will be notified of results via text and email following the lottery.
Is my child automatically enrolled if they are selected in the lottery?
No, your child is not automatically enrolled at Great Lakes Academy if selected in the lottery. Parents/Guardians are required to indicate to GLA if they are accepting the seat. Families who are accepting their seat must attend registration, complete all enrollment paperwork, and submit an activity fee of $90 to fully enroll their child. Fee waivers are available.
In addition, if we are unable to reach families and do not get an affirmative response that the family is accepting the seat by May 4, 2023 4:00 pm (after at least three phone calls, one text, and one email), we will consider that seat released.
What documents do I need to complete registration?
· Parent photo identification
· 2 proofs of residency (for example a water bill, electric bill, lease, etc.)
· Student’s birth certificate
· Copy of a current physical exam and shot records
· $90 non-refundable activity fee
· The most recent report card is required for 1st-8th graders.
· If applicable: a copy of your child’s IEP or 504 plan
What happens if my child is not selected in the lottery?
If your child is not selected for admission during the lottery, then your child will be placed on a waitlist.
As seats become available, we will offer open seats to waitlisted students in the order they are available. Parents / Guardians of waitlisted students who are offered an open seat will have a five business day window to both accept and enroll their child at GLA.
What is sibling preference?
GLA’s preference is to keep families together; therefore, per Illinois charter law, admissions priority will be given to applicants who are siblings of current GLA students.
How long is the school day?
Our school day runs from 7:45 am to 3:15 pm. GLA has dismissal at 1:45 pm every Friday.
What if I have additional questions regarding the admissions process?
If you have any questions or concerns regarding admissions, you may contact our Front Office at 773-530-3040.