Alpha Chicago is open and enrolling.
Join us for an info session, and see firsthand why Alpha is ranked among the best private schools thanks to its groundbreaking learning model.
When choosing a school, nothing matters more than hearing from families just like yours.
These Alpha parents share how their children gained confidence, learned faster, and rediscovered their love of school.
In one evening, you’ll see how Alpha kids learn twice as fast, meet guides, and talk with parents whose kids are already thriving. Walk away knowing whether Alpha is the right fit for your child.
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Alpha Chicago
Brian began his education career with Teach for America after Wesleyan University. He earned master’s degrees from Fuller Theological Seminary and Washington University in St. Louis, as well as a Ph.D. in sociocultural anthropology. Brian spent 25 years at Wheaton College, where he chaired the Anthropology, Sociology and Urban Studies Department and earned the Senior Scholarship Achievement Award. He has written several books and presented research at universities including Boston, Cambridge, and Chicago. He is also a musician and improv performer who teaches and coaches in Chicagoland.
As the Associate Dean of Parents in Chicago, I look forward to building our community, thoughtfully forming our culture together, and developing deep partnerships with our families for the sake of our students and future generations who will have access to an Alpha School.
Edward Kang started his career in science, earning a Ph.D. in Molecular Neuroscience from Northwestern University, but realized he was more interested in getting young people excited about science than spending his career at the lab bench. That led him to Chicago Public Schools (CPS), where he became a science teacher and National Board Certified Teacher. Later, he founded The Laboratory Collective, a nationally recognized STEAM program focused on hands-on, creative learning, and shared their work at SXSW EDU, Falling Walls Engage in Berlin, and the United Nations’ International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Most recently, he has worked as a district STEAM specialist with CPS, helping schools rethink learning through project-based instruction, technology, and AI.
You don’t have to master it today. Just get 1% better than yesterday.
As a former Division I track and field athlete, I bring energy, resilience, and a healthy competitive spirit to my role as an L1 Guide at Alpha Chicago. Originally from New York, my diverse background spans science, communications, coaching, youth programming, and even au pairing abroad in Spain. My varied experiences ultimately led me back to what I love most: working with kids and helping them grow. Outside of Alpha, you can find me writing, traveling, creating art, staying active, or finding something completely new to try. Above all, I love creating spaces where kids feel challenged, encouraged, and excited to discover just how much they’re capable of.
I believe the strongest foundation for growth is relationship. When you take the time to truly know someone and build trust, mentorship and coaching become a natural extension of that connection.
Bridget Hillsman has built her career around helping people learn, grow, and take on challenges they may not have thought possible. With a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education and a master’s degree in Counseling, her experience spans special education, collegiate coaching, and education technology and financial technology startups. Most recently, she served as Director of Diverse Learning, leading programming and a team supporting students with diverse learning needs. Across classrooms, coaching, school leadership, and startups, Bridget developed a belief that drives her work: young people are capable of far more than adults often assume when given meaningful challenges, the right tools, and room to figure things out for themselves.
I want my students to know two things about me: I care deeply about who they are, and I’m going to expect a lot from them. Kids are capable of far more than we often ask of them, and I want to create opportunities for them to discover that for themselves.
Spencer is a life coach and educator who helps middle schoolers figure out who they are through hard, meaningful things. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from UVA in physics and philosophy, where he did particle physics research, mentored middle schoolers, and studied development in Morocco. He started at Alpha in Austin and is excited to bring Ikigai, curiosity, and real stakes to students in Chicago.
Every student is naturally creative, resourceful, and whole. I'll believe in your child before they believe in themselves, and I'll keep believing until they catch up.
Dr. Tasha Arnold is a dynamic educational leader with extensive experience in American and international schools across the US, Europe, and Asia. She has spent her career transforming schools, implementing innovative learning models, and fostering personalized educational experiences that empower students to reach their highest potential. She has taught at the Elementary, Middle, and High School levels, specializing in IB/AP Sciences and Learning Support across various curriculums (USA, UK, IB, and AP).
I joined Alpha because I believe in redefining education. Personalization, hands-on learning, and skill development are the pillars of a truly impactful education. Alpha’s approach aligns with my vision of ensuring every child thrives academically, socially, and emotionally in a way that is uniquely suited to them.
Carrington began her education journey with Teach For America and has 6+ years of experience across public, Waldorf, charter, and innovative school settings. Specializing in early childhood, she also has experience in special education and ABA. Before launching Alpha Chicago, she served as the K–1 Lead Guide at Alpha Austin.
I’ll make school joyful, challenging, and a little bit magical—creating experiences that help every student discover they’re capable of doing things they once thought impossible.
Looking for more stories to view and share?
A teacher-free AI school is coming to Chicago, with tuition at $55,000 a year – Chicago Tribune
Chicago Futurist: Rethinking School for Chicago Students – Landon’s Loop
