The Plato Way

OUR PHILOSOPHY
Plato, the great philosopher, saw education as a life-long learning process, a vigorous and constant search for truth in a free democratic environment. Plato Academy embraces this idea, striving to provide children with a solid foundation for excellence through learning, development of the creative personality in each one of them, and especially the development of critical thinking.

HISTORY
Plato Academy was founded in 1952 as the Plato School by the Assumption Greek Orthodox community in Chicago. Initially rooted in the rich traditions of Hellenic education, the school aimed to provide an exceptional classical education. In 1999, it relocated to Niles and eventually moved to Des Plaines, where it continues to operate as an independent school. Despite these changes, Plato Academy remains committed to its founding principles, maintaining its legacy as a classical Hellenic institution with a strong focus on academic excellence and a strong emphasis on Philotimo! The school actively engages students, blending tradition with progressive student-centered education. Plato is recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), meaning the school’s educational program has been approved by ISBE.

OVERVIEW
Plato Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit school in Des Plaines, Illinois, serving students from preschool through 8th grade in the Chicagoland area since 1952. The school focuses on providing a strong foundation for academic excellence, creativity, and critical thinking. Plato Academy’s philosophy emphasizes holistic learning, where children gain a deeper understanding of subjects through hands-on experiences. Service learning is central, helping students acquire knowledge and skills from a young age. The school is deeply committed to supporting both local and global communities, instilling in students the importance of empathy, service, and social responsibility. Whether through community service projects, global awareness initiatives, or outreach to those in need, Plato Academy encourages students to actively engage in making a positive impact on the world. As a classical Hellenic institution, the school upholds its legacy of academic rigor and promotes Philotimo, a love for living an honorable life. Accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education, Plato Academy remains committed to its founding principles.

OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Challenging students to be their best selves while finding the genius in each.

Philotimo (Φιλότιμο)

Philotimo (Φιλότιμο) is a word that describes a way of life and a duty to do what’s right. It means a friend of honor, but it also implies dignity, pride, sacrifice and respect. It includes doing for others and expecting nothing in return; striving for a life of personal excellence as an obligation to one’s heritage and legacy.

At Plato Academy, Philotimo is fostered in every classroom. As a result, our school community is made up of students who honor and respect themselves and each other. They become aware of the larger community and the needs of others leading them to initiating service projects that make a difference in the world. Students gain the understanding that kindness as a way of life leads one to becoming a benevolent citizen.

VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXPJNDVfBgU

PRINCIPLES OF A PROGRESSIVE SCHOOL
(from the Progressive Education Network website)

Education must prepare students for active participation in a democratic society.
Education must focus on students’ social, emotional, academic, cognitive and physical development.
Education must nurture and support students’ natural curiosity and innate desire to learn. Education must foster internal motivation in students.
Education must be responsive to the developmental needs of students.
Education must foster respectful relationships between teachers and students.
Education must encourage the active participation of students in their learning, which arises from previous experience.
Progressive educators must play an active role in guiding the educational vision of our society.

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