
St. Matthias School
Catholic, Founded 1888
Updated July 2026
St. Matthias Elementary School is a Catholic, International Baccalaureate (IB) World, and National Blue Ribbon School serving students from PK3 through 8th grade in Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood. It is the only wall-to-wall Catholic IB elementary school in the city.
Teaching approach
The school is a Catholic institution dedicated to developing faith-centered, service-oriented, and compassionate global citizens. It emphasizes a rigorous, interdisciplinary inquiry-based approach to education, fostering a love of lifelong learning. The community values diversity and encourages active participation from students, parents, and staff to create a supportive, prayerful, and serving educational environment.
Programmes
The school offers a comprehensive academic program that includes a Little Wonders parents-and-tots class, a preschool program for 3 and 4-year-olds, and a curriculum for grades K-5. The middle school (grades 6-8) follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme. The curriculum is enriched by "specials" including music, art, physical education, technology, and world language instruction.
Student support
Learning support
St. Matthias provides diverse learner support and employs a dedicated Director of Inclusive Services. The school utilizes i-Ready testing to monitor student progress and offers Title I academic coaching and counseling services. Tutoring information is also available to support students' individual academic growth.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does St. Matthias School offer?
- St. Matthias School offers IB PYP and IB MYP.
- What accreditations does St. Matthias School hold?
- St. Matthias School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is St. Matthias School co-educational?
- St. Matthias School is a co-ed school.
- Where is St. Matthias School located?
- St. Matthias School is an international school in Chicago, United States.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
St. Matthias Elementary School prioritizes admissions for current students and their siblings, Queen of Apostles parishioners, and participants in the Little Wonders toddler classes. The school maintains a non-discriminatory admissions policy regarding race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Prospective middle school families are strongly encouraged to schedule a shadow day as part of the application process.
Calendar
The school operates on a standard academic calendar, with the 2026-2027 overview available for download. The school year includes various community events, such as playground playdates for preschool families and ice cream socials for incoming kindergarten students. Administrative office hours during the summer are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago, the campus features a school playground used for student activities and community events. The facility supports a range of academic and extracurricular needs, including dedicated spaces for technology, music, and art instruction. The school also provides an extended day program for students.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a variety of athletic programs and after-school enrichment opportunities. Students may participate in activities such as summer camps and various enrichment programs, though specific offerings are updated seasonally. Additionally, the school hosts community-focused groups like the SMS Mustang Club and Friends of St. Matthias.
- Mrs. Nicole PacholskiPrincipal
Mrs. Pacholski is in her first year as Principal at St. Matthias, though she has been part of the community for 16 years as a parent, educator, and administrator. She holds a M. Ed. and is a parent to three St. Matthias alumni and one current student.
- Ms. Christine BettermanAssistant Principal
- Ms. Emily MossDirector of Inclusive Services
- Ms. Jill HotekDirector of Marketing and Enrollment
- Mr. Mike MayerDirector of Operations
IB PYP