Reggio Emilia Informed

Bilingualism

Healthy Habits

REGGIO EMILIA ITALIAN PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN IN CHICAGO

From preschool through elementary, our Reggio Emilia-inspired programs combine
Italian language immersion, hands-on learning, and nurturing relationships to help
every child grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy.

Text with the words 'A aula de classe do Bosco' in Portuguese, arranged with 'A aula de' in smaller font above larger 'CLASSE BOSCO', all on a black background.

Our first year class (3+)

Our preschool program introduces children to Italian through play, exploration, and comforting daily routines that encourage confidence, independence, and a love of learning.

Stylized text that reads 'Classe Finestra' with a black background.

Our second year class (4-5)

INDEPENDENCE & ROUTINE

Designed for pre-kindergarten learners,
Classe Finestre uses art, nature,
and collaborative projects to nurture
creativity, emotional awareness,
and kindergarten readiness.

EMOTIONAL AWARENESS & CREATIVITY

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Our Kindergarten (5+) and K1 blended class

Our 5+ bilingual program seamlessly weaves Italian and English into each day, strengthening critical thinking, academic readiness, and the skills to thrive in both American and Italian educational pathways.

BILINGUAL & FUTURE READINESS

STUDENT PROGRAMS

Illustration of children building and exploring science with the words 'Curiosity = Il Laporeatico Curioso' in large colorful letters, featuring a girl watering a flower and a boy climbing a ladder to reach a star.

Our afternoon program

Curiosity Lab is our mixed-age, child-led afternoon program that honors children's natural curiosity through a flexible, bilingual environment. Rooted in trust and self-direction, each day adapts to the group’s energy and interests, to support autonomy, collaboration, and meaningful social learning. Click to read more about our unique approach.

Text 'BREAKFAST CLUB' in large light blue letters with a pink shadow, with a decorative pink lace pattern beneath.

Our early morning program

The Breakfast Club is our new pre-care program starting the 2026-27 school year. From 7:30 to 8:30, children are offered a light breakfast and options of quiet activities in a peaceful environment. Classical music, book readings, and mandala coloring will be the softest way to start the day. Available as a drop-in or a full-year package.

Text on a black background that reads "Musica con Tommaso" in large, light blue letters with a red shadow.

Music classes during the school year

Musica con Tommaso is a cheerful introduction to sound, rhythm, and movement guided by Tommaso Moretti and grounded in the Gordon Method. Children explore music as a language through listening, vocal play, and body expression—laying the foundation for lifelong musicality. Click to learn more (dates to be announced).

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MISSION AND VISION

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Mission

At Scuola Italiana Enrico Fermi, we provide a Reggio Emilia–inspired education where creativity, inquiry, and cultural identity flourish. Our full-immersion Italian program nurtures bilingualism as a lifelong gift, while our curriculum integrates academic excellence with social-emotional growth, self-discovery, and healthy daily habits. We prepare children to become confident, curious, and compassionate citizens, ready to thrive in a global and multicultural world.

Cute black outline drawing of a puppy with a large head, floppy ears, and a curled tail, drawn with bold lines and a bright blue highlight on its body.

Vision

We envision Scuola Fermi as a model of bilingual, Reggio-inspired education in Chicago—where Italian language and culture meet innovation, community, and care. Guided by our three pillars—Reggio Emilia pedagogy, bilingualism, and healthy habits—we aspire to:

  • Honor each child’s individuality and potential.

  • Inspire exploration, creativity, and critical thinking.

  • Foster resilience, well-being, and a sense of belonging.

  • Strengthen cultural bridges between Italy, Chicago, and the world.

Our vision is to grow into a thriving institution that not only educates children but also supports families, enriches our community, and preserves the enduring legacy of Italian excellence in education.

Visit our Italian immersion school in Chicago

The best way to learn about Scuola Fermi is to experience it yourself.

During your visit, you’ll explore our classrooms, meet our team, and ask questions about our programs and admissions. If you can’t find a time slot that works for you, feel free to email us, and we will find a dedicated slot.

Our Italian Preschool and Kindergarten is located in Chicago, in the Wicker Park / Bucktown area at:

1510 N Claremont Avenue — Chicago 60622