Willows Academy Hosts Fall Open House November 4

Willows Academy in Des Plaines continues to soar as it celebrates nearly 45 years of educating female leaders. The college-preparatory school for girls in grades 6 through 12, will host its annual fall open house on Sunday, Nov. 4 from 12 to 2pm.

"The event will give prospective students, and their families, a snapshot of what a Willows education is all about," said Kathy Ferry, director of admissions. "Our unique family atmosphere is something that needs to be experienced first hand."

Current students and parent ambassadors will guide visitors through the school, pointing out places of interest such as the art studios, the chapel, and the auditorium. Prospective students will have the chance to participate in science experiments and talk one-on-one with parents, students, club leaders, and student council representatives. They will even have an opportunity to hear the Willows Academy Chamber Choir, which has performed in New York and Rome, as well as most recently at the Augustana College Choral Festival.

"The tour is designed with strategic stops along the way, to explain a Willows custom, tradition, or point of interest," Ferry said. "For instance, tours will pass through the lunchroom to learn about our lunch program and see the mural painted on the wall by one of our alumna."

Established in 1974, Willows Academy has been solely focused on the education of female leaders from day one. Students benefit from a one-to-one advising program, top-notch visual and performing arts, and winning Eagle athletics. The all-honors and AP curriculum in high school prepares students for college and beyond; with recent graduates attending MIT, Notre Dame, University of Illinois, Northwestern, Villanova, and St. Louis University.

"At Willows I developed confidence and a strong work ethic which has served me well in the field of engineering," said Mary Morgan, a graduate from the class of '07. "The core curriculum trained me to think critically and proved to be ample preparation for Northwestern University courses."

Strong academics isn't the only focus at Willows. The school works at educating the whole person - guiding the students to grow academically, personally, culturally and spiritually. This is achieved through the small class sizes, low student-to-teach ratio and personalized attention through the advising program. Students leave Willows with solid academic tools, a love for freedom and truth, and life long friends.

"At Willows random girls become close classmates, then close classmates become great friends, and great friends become sisters for life," said a current 7th grade student. "Willows is a place where any girl can feel right at home."

For more information contact Kathy Ferry, director of admissions, at 847.824.6900 ext 208 or via email at ferry@willowsacademy.org. Those interested in attending the open house can RSVP on the Willows website: www.willowsacademy.org or just stop in.