High School Prep

Transitioning to High School.

Preparing for Success: High School Readiness at Pilgrim.

Taking the Next Step in the Academic Journey

Pilgrim’s commitment to excellence means we go above and beyond to ensure your child is prepared for high school. Our students have exceptional test scores and a remarkable 95% acceptance rate into prestigious and competitive high school programs.

Our 8th grade students scored an impressive 90% in Math and 94% in Reading on their Fall 2025 NWEA standardized tests!!

Through personalized meetings with our team of upper-grade teachers and the school principal, we assess each student's abilities, needs, and preferences. We make sure that your child is well-prepared for high school by providing them with crucial information about enrollment criteria and emphasizing the importance of attendance records, report cards, and extracurricular activities beginning in seventh grade.

Pilgrim’s High School Advisor, Mrs. Shannon Andreen, guides all eighth-grade students and their families through the lengthy and often complicated application and selection process. We’re proud to share that 95% of the Class of 2025 received a seat at their first-choice high school! In addition, ALL Pilgrim graduates received an offer from a selective enrollment program (International Baccalaureate or Scholars).

Not only does this speak to the talent and work ethic of our students, but it truly exemplifies the value of a Pilgrim education!

“Both of my children have been well prepared for the selective enrollment process for high school, and I am continually amazed when our 8th graders are able to "choose" their top choice high school year after year. Pilgrim focuses on the whole child, with social emotional support, and a commitment to making sure they are good citizens through service learning projects. The teachers care about their students' success and help each child meet their full potential.”

- Halley W., parent

High School Destinations

At Pilgrim Lutheran School, we uphold academic excellence, nurture a close-knit community, instill strong character, and foster a global perspective, shaping well-rounded individuals prepared for the future.

Selective High Schools

Jones College Prep
Lane Tech College Prep
Northside College Prep
Walter Payton College Prep
Whitney Young

Private or Parochial High Schools

Beacon Academy
Chicago Academy for the Arts
DePaul College Prep
Global Citizenship Experience Lab School
Loyola Academy
Lycee Francais De Chicago
Regina Dominican
Notre Dame College Prep

Preferred CPS Schools

Alcott College Prep
Amundsen IB
Chicago High School for the Arts
Lincoln Park
Mather High School
Ogden
Senn
Taft
Von Steuben
William Howard Taft IB

Charter Schools

Chicago International Charter School

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