The Academy of Arts and Letters is a District 13 public school for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The diverse school features a very strong arts program, small class sizes and emphasis on strong critical thinking skills. Students are admitted to the elementary school (K-5) by lottery and to the middle school (6-8) by a selection process involving interviews and submitted work. The school emphasizes community ties, with frequent field trips and community engagement projects. Parents always are encouraged to be involved. Classes skew towards small group work and open discussions rather than test preparation. It features an inclusive, collaborative special education program. The school supports a variety of clubs, including arts programs and athletic activities.