Intrinsic Schools
Higher EducationIllinois, United States51-200 Employees
Intrinsic Schools operates two public, tuition-free schools in Chicago that admit all students without entrance exams or other selective criteria. The model centers on collaboration, a strong sense of belonging, and pursuing individualized goals to prepare students for postsecondary success. It employs team teaching in POD classrooms and redefines the role of teachers, using technology to tailor instruction to each learner. Students develop critical thinking, communication, and reflection while engaging with EPIC Core Values—Empathy, Perseverance, Identity, and Curiosity. The organization emphasizes DEI, family participation, and collaboration with teachers, administrators, and researchers, alongside award-winning facilities and consistent senior leadership. A recent development is that for the 2024-25 school year, both Belmont and Downtown campuses earned GOLD status and the AP Access Award for equitable access to advanced coursework.