Burr Ridge’s premier private school, Vine Academy, is designed for curious and capable learners in grades K-12. We provide a personalized educational experience, embracing students with diverse learning profiles and abilities. Many of our students are gifted or twice-exceptional (gifted with learning differences such as dyslexia or executive functioning challenges.) Our smaller, supportive environment is ideal for students who experience anxiety in traditional schools; Vine’s unique structure promotes well-being and a positive outlook on learning! We are also well-suited for certain students with ADHD, as our calm atmosphere fosters sustained focus and a greater sense of achievement. At Vine Academy, we prioritize the development of executive functioning across all subjects. Our daily project-based class, Projected Learning, focuses on essential skills like organization, breaking projects into manageable steps, and meeting deadlines. Students learn these skills through exciting, hands-on projects, all within a framework that encourages personal growth and responsibility.

With about 130 students, we believe our smaller school size is a major strength. Fewer students means teachers are able to build close relationships, offer meaningful attention, and effectively target instruction. Teachers use proven strategies like integrated curriculum, multi-age grouping, and regular assessments to foster engagement and achievement. Vine students are held to high expectations while being seen as individuals with unique strengths and needs. One of the cornerstones of Vine Academy is our commitment to being homework-free. We believe that children should begin the practice of a balanced life now by having time to relax, connect with family and friends, and fully participate in extracurricular activities. Regular skill practice is built into our curriculum so it doesn’t fall on the shoulders of parents; the only nightly requirement is twenty to thirty minutes of reading, an activity shown to have real educational benefits. Vine’s high school program offers a high-rigor, low-stress environment.

High school students build meaningful relationships with their peers and teachers due to our intentional cultivation of a culture of kindness paired with a no-cell-phone policy. This approach stands in strong contrast to the traditional high school experience. Our high school alumni have gone on to achieve great success, attending top universities and programs such as the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign, Manhattan School of Music, Loyola University, Lake Forest College, Illinois Wesleyan, Oxford University, DePaul University, and more.

At Vine Academy, we’re more than just a school – we’re a place where students are empowered to reach their fullest potential.

For more information, visit vineacademy.com