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Online School for Chicago Families | Forest Trail Academy
If you’re a Chicago parent weighing your options, you already know the math doesn’t add up: a seat at Latin School or Francis Parker runs 5,000–5,000 a year, CPS schools are stretched thin, and if your kid plays club hockey or trains at a performing arts conservatory, a fixed bell schedule can feel like a daily battle. Forest Trail Academy gives your family a fully accredited K–12 education that works around your life — not the other way around.
Why Chicago Families Choose Forest Trail Academy
Chicago private school tuition is among the steepest in the country. The University of Chicago Lab School, Francis Parker, and Latin School all sit above 0,000 a year — and that’s before activity fees, transportation, and uniforms. CPS enrollment data tells its own story: overcrowded classrooms, inconsistent staffing, and long wait lists for selective-enrollment programs like Jones College Prep or Northside Prep. If you live on the North Shore in Evanston, Wilmette, or Lake Forest, you may be adding a 45–60 minute commute on top of everything else. FTA eliminates that equation entirely. Your child learns at home — or anywhere with a connection — through a structured, self-paced curriculum that doesn’t sacrifice rigor for convenience.
Chicago’s Latino families in Pilsen, Little Village, and Humboldt Park face a different set of priorities. Many parents want their children earning a US-recognized diploma — the kind that opens doors to University of Illinois Chicago, Loyola, DePaul, and beyond — without navigating under-resourced neighborhood schools. FTA’s English-language curriculum is clear, well-supported, and fully accredited, so the credentials your child earns here carry real weight with Illinois colleges and universities. And for Northshore families whose student athletes or young musicians train at odd hours with AAU programs, club teams, or the Midwest Young Artists Conservatory, FTA’s schedule-free model means your child can get coursework done at 6am before the ice or 9pm after rehearsal — no permission slips required.
What You Get with FTA
- Cognia Accreditation: Your FTA diploma is recognized by University of Illinois Chicago, Loyola, DePaul, Northwestern and all US public and private universities.
- No Fixed Class Times: Study at 6am before training, after your shift, on weekends — whatever fits your Chicago lifestyle.
- Open Enrollment: Start any week of the year. No waiting for September or next semester.
- One School Through Every Change: PCS moves, relocations, and family changes don’t disrupt your child’s education at FTA.
How to Get Started from Chicago
- Call or Submit an Inquiry: Reach our admissions team at 800-890-6269 — they know the Chicago area and can answer local questions.
- Submit Previous Transcripts: FTA evaluates credits from any Chicago-area school.
- Start Learning: Coursework begins within days. No waiting.
Questions About Online School in Chicago?
Q: Is FTA’s diploma recognized by Illinois universities?
A: Yes — our Cognia-accredited diploma is accepted by University of Illinois Chicago, Loyola, DePaul, Northwestern, all Illinois public universities, and 1,000+ colleges nationwide.
Q: Can we start mid-year from Chicago?
A: Yes — open enrollment means you can start any week.
Q: How does online proctoring work for Chicago students?
A: Fully remote, webcam-based. No testing center needed anywhere in Chicago.
Part of the Illinois FTA Community
Chicago families are part of Forest Trail Academy’s broader Illinois community. Learn more about FTA for Illinois students here →
Forest Trail Academy | 2101 Vista Parkway, Suite 226, West Palm Beach, FL 33411 | 800-890-6269 | Florida DOE School Code 3970
FTA Programs Available to You
Forest Trail Academy offers the complete K-12 curriculum to students in your area. All programs are 100% online, self-paced, and open for enrollment year-round.
Elementary School (Kindergarten-Grade 5)
Accredited elementary curriculum covering reading, math, science, and social studies. Students progress at their own pace with certified teacher support.
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
FTA middle school prepares students for high school with rigorous core subjects and academic counseling on a flexible schedule.
High School (Grades 9-12)
Our Cognia-accredited high school diploma program includes all graduation requirements plus AP courses and college-prep guidance. Recognized by 1,000+ universities worldwide.
Homeschool Programs
FTA homeschool support gives families the academic structure, certified teachers, and official transcripts that colleges require.
Tuition and Enrollment
Tuition from $255.75/month. Open enrollment year-round. Contact admissions to start today.
