Chicago Gifted Community Center upcoming events

Crafternoon (April 10, 2026)

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Let nature inspire art! Create different crafts, which are suitable for people of all abilities.

For more information, please email southzoneprogram@cookcountyil.gov or call 708-771-9632.

Lyric Opera of Chicago: Mary Poppins in Concert Live to Film (April 10, 2026)

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Get ready for high-energy fun as Disney’s five-time Academy Award®-winning film comes to life on the big screen! Meet Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews), a magical English nanny who flies out of the breezy London skies and into the home of two mischievous children and the hearts of their family. With the help of a carefree chimney sweep Bert (Dick Van Dyke), the spirited nanny turns chores into games and every day into a “Jolly Holiday.” Featuring favorites like “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” and the unforgettable “Super-cali-fragil-istic-expi-ali-docious” – you’ll hear the Sherman Brothers’ complete score performed live in all of its splendor.

Running Time: 2 hours and 55 minutes, including 1 intermission
Location: Lyric Opera House

Tickets here

Woodworking with Invasives (April 11, 2026)

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Repurpose common European buckthorn into something new. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up. Ages 10-16 w/ adult. Registration required.

To register or for more information, please email northzoneprogram@cookcountyil.gov or call 773-758-8899

Fox River Valley Math Circle (April 11, 2026)

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 15:10:00 GMT

Our math circle is a program for elementary school students that fosters a love for mathematics through engaging, hands-on problem-solving and interactive activities. Unlike traditional classrooms, math circles encourage creative thinking, collaboration, and exploration of mathematical concepts in a fun and challenging environment. Each month, we'll dive into a new game or work together on a fascinating puzzle, all focused on exploring and finding joy in math, patterns, and concepts. Grownups can even participate in their own puzzle-solving activities in a separate room, making it a stimulating experience for the whole family.

Discovery Day at Vanguard: An Innovation Celebration (April 11, 2026)

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Step inside and see how we learn! Discovery Day is a high-energy, interactive open house designed for prospective families, community leaders, and alumni to experience the "Vanguard difference" firsthand.

This event is a celebration of our three pillars: Intellectual Challenges, Social and Emotional Growth, and Creative Opportunities. During your visit, you can see the innovative layout of our school, designed specifically to foster collaboration and high-level thinking. Our learning spaces will be transformed into discovery zones where you can explore our Student Product Showcase. Using our unique "Vanguard Bucks" system, you’ll have the chance to "shop" and "invest" in the innovation of our young thinkers—from regional American projects to creative 3D-printed designs—while learning about their process through interactive displays and discovery QR codes.

Highlights of the Event:

Tours & Exploration: Walk through our unique school layout and see how our environment supports a personalized, gifted-centered education.
Alumni Mentorship: We are thrilled to welcome back our alumni as "Lead Investors" to reconnect and mentor the next generation of Vanguard students.
Community Impact: Meet our school leadership and local community leaders to learn how our curriculum prepares students for real-world leadership and success.
Support the Mission: Participate in our Silent Auction to support our Financial Sustainability Fund and ensure the future of our innovative programs.
Fun for All: Enjoy interactive games, engaging student work, and door prizes for everyone in attendance!

Whether you are looking for a new school home or want to celebrate local educational excellence, we invite you to join us for an afternoon of discovery.

More information here

Lyric Opera of Chicago: Mary Poppins in Concert Live to Film (April 11, 2026)

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Running Time: 2 hours and 55 minutes, including 1 intermission
Location: Lyric Opera House

Tickets here

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (April 12, 2026)

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Please join us for an information session about our unique full-time gifted junior kindergarten through 12th grade school admissions process and curriculum, our enrichment program, and to meet and network with other gifted families in the area as well as to understand school options and advocacy. RSVP by emailing admissions@mage.education.

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

April 12
May 3
June 7
July 19
August 2
September 6
October 4
November 8
December 6

The Secret Wildlife of Barrington: A Trail Camera Deep Dive (April 12, 2026)

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Experience the hidden lives of local wildlife through trail camera footage and expert insights! Join us on a fact-filled visual journey, unveiling the surprising variety of creatures thriving right in our own backyards. Motion-activated trail cams capture animals and behaviors rarely seen, from playful flying squirrels and clever foxes to delicate newborn fawns, mysterious owls, industrious beavers, and much more.

More information and registration here.

Strengthening Executive Functioning Skills and Buildng Independence in Children (April 14, 2026)

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Executive functioning skills — the brain-based internal skills that drive focus, planning, self-regulation, working memory, and follow-through — develop differently and often slowly in children with ADHD. This can result in disorganization, inconsistent effort, missing assignments, emotional outbursts, and heavy dependence on adult prompts and reminders.

In this practical, strategy-packed webinar, ADHD & executive function specialist Michael McLeod will break down why executive function challenges show up in daily life and academics — and how educators and parents can build true independence by strengthening a child’s internal skills that drive performance. Attendees will learn how common problems (messy backpacks, “I forgot,” not starting work, rushing, shutting down, low frustration tolerance) connect to specific executive function skill gaps, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, working memory, planning, and self-evaluation.

Michael will also share actionable, real-world methods to reduce reliance on prompts and accommodations, while increasing student engagement and ownership, using concrete classroom examples, guided “prediction” strategies, and simple structures that support follow-through. Participants will leave with a clear roadmap and usable tools that help students move beyond “getting by” and toward long-term independence at school and at home.

In this webinar, you will learn:

About the brain-based reasons behind executive function delays in ADHD and how this impacts academics and daily functioning
To identify the internal executive function skills driving performance and what specific struggles reveal about skill gaps
How to increase engagement and participation and focusing less on dependence on prompts and reminders
How to use practical strategies to strengthen working memory, self-regulation, planning, and follow-through in real time
How to shift from accommodations alone to skills-based independence—without power struggles or shame

NAGC Webinar: Building Brain Capital and 21st Century Skills For Our Gifted Learners (April 15, 2026)

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:00:00 GMT

$30 members, $40 nonmembers

Building the leaders of tomorrow begins by knowing how the brain, art, and social connection are intertwined in a unique symphony of creative development. Join us for an interactive 90-minute, jovial session that will teach you the latest methodologies, backed by neuroscience, to develop creativity, brain health, and other essential life skills for our leaders navigating ambiguous times.

More information and registration here.

Executive Functioning Facilitated Discussion Group (April 15, 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

An expert-led small group that fosters supportive conversations and provides personalized practical strategies that truly matter to you and your family.

More information and registration here

Perennial Math HS Spring Fling Team event (grades 9-12) (April 16, 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Students grades 9-12 are invited to our High School Virtual Face-Off on APRIL 16th. This virtual tournament is 1 hour in our WebEx tournament room for TEAMS made up of 5 or less members. Teams see each other and the host and log in answers like a ciphering round. Our host will direct teams to select from categories on the gameboard. Teams enter answers on our live scoring site. The first correct response will select the next category. Points are based on how quick you answer. All questions are 3 minutes or less. The cost is $50 per team to participate.

More information and registration here

JKC Young Scholar Application Workshop Webinar (April 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Join CTD's Manager of Community Outreach, Tammie Stewart, for an overview of the Jack Kent Cooke Young Scholars Scholarship and application. The workshop will review the application itself and the process to apply. We will answer questions about the scholarship program, the application sections (parent section, student section, recommendations, essay, etc.). The goal is to help families prepare to complete and submit an on-time application.

Open to any interested parent or educator. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Join us by filling out the registration form!

Perennial Math Math Showers (grades 3-8) (April 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Let it Rain some Math -grades 3-8 across the U.S. are invited to our Math Showers Virtual Tournament on April 18, 2026. Check the schedule below for time. This is a virtual face off for 1 hour in our WebEx Tournament room for individual student awards only. Our host will direct participants to select from categories on our gameboard. Students enter answers on our live scoring site. We will select students that are correct to choose the next category. Points are based on how quick you answer. All questions are 3 minutes or less. Winners will be invite to our National Championships in May.

Grades 3-4 10:30 AM
Grades 5-6 12:00 PM
Grades 7-8 1:30 PM

More information and registration here

Yes, Chef! Youth Culinary Class (Ages 6–11) (April 20, 2026)

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Step right up! In this fun-filled culinary class, young chefs explore the exciting world of street food and carnival favorites. From hand-held snacks to sweet, over-the-top treats, kids will learn to make fun and flavorful dishes inspired by food trucks and carnival classics. Think corn dogs, funnel cakes, Mexican street corn, and more – kids no longer have to wait all year to enjoy their favorite carnival food. Led by Rachel Gibson who has cooked for some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment – from Michael Jordan to Taylor Swift, and countless others in between! Three days: April 20-22

Learn more about Youth Culinary Classes

Financial Aid Application Completion Workshop (April 22, 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 22:00:00 GMT

In this workshop students will be able to complete their financial aid application with the assistance of an ISACorps member. For more information, see the ISACorps events website.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (April 22, 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

While conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees, we will begin with the topic of giftedness and autism with Dr. Matt Zakreski: It's Not Like Sheldon: When Giftedness and Autism Spectrum Disorder Interact

National Math Stars Family Information Sessions (April 23, 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Join one of our monthly information sessions to learn about the program, understand the admissions process, and ask questions of our team.

See Family Information Sessions at the bottom of the Apply to be a National Math Star page for registration links.

College Application Process Presentation (April 23, 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 22:00:00 GMT

This presentation informs students about the college application process, including common components of applications, the Illinois Direct Admission program, timeline and logistics of the application process, and basic financial aid information. For more information, see the ISACorps events website.

Frogs (April 24, 2026)

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Learn how to recognize frog calls.

Registration is required. For more information, please email call 708-839-6897

SENGconnect: Games for Gifted Grandchildren (April 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

This SENG connect session explores how we can reduce screen time in both young children and school aged children. As grandparents, parents and caregivers in this busy world we can engage in activities that foster development. Key themes include gross motor, fine motor and sensory activities. Participants will learn a few games and activities to try out as well.

*NOTE: Registration closes April 21, 2026*

"Calvin Can't Fly" ASL Film Screening (April 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Calvin is one unusual starling! While his siblings and cousins learn to fly, this rare bird lets his imagination soar while reading about pirates, dinosaurs, and other fascinating things. The other birds call him "geeky beaky," but Calvin just ruffles his feathers and buries his beak in a book. Yet, when it comes time to migrate, poor Calvin suddenly realizes he can't fly! His sisters, brothers, and cousins carry him into the air. But on their way south, the winds blow hard, the trees bend, and the air starts to smell strange. It's a hurricane, and only Calvin can save the day—because he has read all about it!

This screening will feature a live storyteller and an ASL interpreter.

More information here.

Wild About Play (April 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Unleash your wild side while creating paper mache enrichment items for our ambassador animals.

For more information, please email call 708-839-6897

When Writing Feels Hard: Science-Based Strategies for Managing Emotions in 2e Writers (April 27, 2026)

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Learn science-backed strategies to help 2e students manage the big emotions that make writing feel so hard.

More information and registration here

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (April 28, 2026)

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

April 28
May 12
May 19
June 2
June 9
September 8
October 20
November 17

Author Spotlight: On Writing Beloved Characters and Powerful Portrayals of Resilience with Jason Reynolds (April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Join us in conversation with bestselling author Jason Reynolds as we discuss his latest work, Coach, the fifth–and last–entry in the highly popular Track series. Following the immersive stories of Ghost, Lu, Patina, and Sunny, it’s finally time for Coach to shine in his own book as we discover: Who was Coach before he became an inspiring leader?

More information here.

Constructive Geometry (April 30, 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Grades 3-5. This hands-on STEM program will focus on geometry, geometric shapes, and the creation of two and three-dimensional figures utilizing a multi-sensory approach with a variety of materials, including glow sticks.

More information here.

Perennial Math HS Cinco de Matho Team event (grades 9-12) (May 01, 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Students grades 9-12 are invited to our High School Virtual Face-Off on May 1, 2026. This virtual tournament is 1 hour in our WebEx tournament room for TEAMS made up of 5 or less members. Teams see each other and the host and log in answers like a ciphering round. Our host will direct teams to select from categories on the gameboard. Teams enter answers on our live scoring site. The first correct response will select the next category. Points are based on how quick you answer. All questions are 3 minutes or less. The cost is $50 per team to participate.

More information and registration here

Julia Robinson Math Festival (May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 05:12:00 GMT

This festival is open to the public and the games and activities are for all ages.

The Julia Robinson Mathematics Festival helps students build confidence, joy, and a sense of belonging around math by hosting Math Festivals.

Encouraging Play

Math doesn't need to be scary, hard, or boring. Play gives students the opportunity to take charge of their learning, grow from their mistakes, and have fun at the same time.

Building Confidence

Show kids how to harness their own creativity with open-ended activities. Students will succeed early, engage deeply, and build up to more challenges — increasing their confidence in math.

Including Everyone

Competition in math can hurt learning, especially for underrepresented students. But working as a team allows kids to empower each other and let all voices be heard.

Major Taylor Trail Bike Ride (May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Pedal with us on a 16-mile roundtrip ride, with flexible turning points for riders of all levels.

For more information, please email southzoneprogram@cookcountyil.gov or call 708-771-9632.

Fox River Valley Math Circle (May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 15:10:00 GMT

Mythical Forest Series: Toadstools (May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Examine the realities and mythology of nature in fantasy. Ages 8 & up.

For more information, please call 708-839-6897.

Charlotte's Web (May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Grades K-5. This is a special, 60-minute touring theatrical version of the beloved literary classic, Charlotte's Web, adapted from E.B. White's novel by Joseph Robinette. A beautiful, knowing play that explores change, friendship, and the enduring impact of kindness, presented by Three Brothers Theatre.

More information here.

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (May 03, 2026)

Sun, 03 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

May 3
June 7
July 19
August 2
September 6
October 4
November 8
December 6

CGCC Family Game Night at The Parched Pug (May 03, 2026)

Sun, 03 May 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Come meet with other parents and kids to talk and play games during our monthly Family Game Night! Games are free on Sundays and choose any of the games from 200+ board game library. Join us at The Parched Pug in Libertyville for food, drinks, and games while the parents connect, and the kids enjoy time together playing games.

Please register so that we can reserve adequate space for the group. This event is "free" as everyone will pay their own bill at the end of the evening. There are no drop offs and a parent or guardian must accompany their child during the length of the event. If your plans change after registration, please kindly respond to the confirmation email so we can adjust our arrangements.

Please note that by attending this event, you confirm that you will assume all the risk to yourself and your family related to coronavirus.

The Parched Pug: An Upscale Gastropub & Gamery in Libertyville, IL

Curiosity, Connection, and Confidence: A New Path to Motivation for 2e Kids (May 04, 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Learn why motivation breaks down for 2e learners and how connection-first, brain-based strategies can unlock activation and engagement.

More information and RSVP here

SENG: Thriving in the Real World While Honoring Your Giftedness (May 05, 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 23:30:00 GMT

When entering the “real world,” where giftedness is often undervalued, individuals may feel discouraged, anxious, or depressed – convinced they cannot succeed in a culture of mediocrity, competition, and superficiality. Yet, some thrive spectacularly without losing integrity.

Drawing on a case study, Dr. Grobman will explore how to reacquaint yourself with early passion and big dreams; how to reconnect with an ambitious drive that you were told was beyond your reach or you felt was unnecessary because things came too easily.

*NOTE: Registration closes May 1, 2026*

Curiosity, Connection, and Confidence: A New Path to Motivation for 2e Kids (May 05, 2026)

Wed, 06 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT

This talk introduces a connection-first model of motivation rooted in co-regulation, curiosity, and collaborative problem-solving.

More information and registration here.

MAGE Professional Open House & Coffee (May 07, 2026)

Thu, 07 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

We're excited to extend a warm welcome to Professional Educators and Providers at our Open House Coffee event. Come and learn more about our mission and the services we offer, network, and get a primer on gifted education. Here are the details:

Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026

⏰ Time: 10AM-11:30 AM

Location: 900 North Franklin Street, Ste 200., Chicago IL 60642. (Just a few blocks from the 90/94 at Orleans and the Chicago Brown Line Stop.)

☕ Coffee and sandwiches will be provided to keep you energized as you explore our school and connect with fellow professionals.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to network, learn, and be a part of our growing community. We look forward to meeting you!

#MAGECommunity #OpenHouseCoffee #EducatorsAndProviders

2e Parent Support Groups with PHP (May 07, 2026)

Fri, 08 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT

REEL partners with Parents Helping Parents to offer a bi-monthly support group for parents of twice-exceptional children. Join us to ask questions and share answers.

More information and registration here

Lake County Symphony Orchestra: Roots and Resonance (May 08, 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The Lake County Symphony Orchestra closes its 2025–26 season with a program that spans folk traditions, jazz flair, and Romantic symphonic depth. Percy Grainger’s Green Bushes opens the evening with lively folk-inspired energy, followed by Artie Shaw’s swinging Clarinet Concerto, a tour de force for soloist and orchestra. After intermission, the orchestra performs Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8.

More information and tickets here

Bird Day Walk & Big Sit (May 09, 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Spot birds on a guided walk or sit from a fixed location. Binoculars available for loan. All birding levels welcome.

Bird Day Walk: 8-10am
Big Sit: 10am-noon

For questions or more information, please visit fpdcc.com/events

Beginning Birdwalk (May 11, 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Ages 10 & up. Registration required.

For questions or more information, please call 847-381-6592.

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

May 12
May 19
June 2
June 9
September 8
October 20
November 17

Vanguard Gifted Academy Showcase (May 13, 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Join us for our quarterly showcase, open to all community members, families, and Chamber of Commerce partners. Witness the incredible projects and learning journeys of our students, which serve as a living reflection of our mission: to guide gifted children toward discovery, empowerment, and innovation.

You will have the opportunity to see firsthand how our personalized, authentic learning experiences inspire creativity and problem-solving. Come be inspired by the next generation of thinkers and creators in our community.

I Spy with My Five Senses (May 14, 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Enjoy a scavenger hunt that uses all five senses. Ages 2-8 w/ adult.

For more information, please email southzoneprogram@cookcountyil.gov or call 708-771-9632.

Des Plaines Canoe and Kayak Marathon (May 17, 2026)

Sun, 17 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Join the second oldest continual canoe race in the United States. Race begins at W. Oak Spring Rd. and ends at Dam No. 2 Woods. Registration required at canoemarathon.com

To register or for more information, please email northzoneprogram@cookcountyil.gov or call 773-758-8899

Hidden Lives of Fungi (May 17, 2026)

Sun, 17 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Explore the roles and lifecycles that fungi play in our forests on this informative 1-mile walk. Ages 10 & up.

For more information, please email call 708-839-6897

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (May 19, 2026)

Tue, 19 May 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

May 19
June 2
June 9
September 8
October 20
November 17

Moon in the Twins (May 19, 2026)

Wed, 20 May 2026 01:30:00 GMT

Join us for a star gazing night as a waxing gibbous moon glows near Jupiter and Venus in the constellation Gemini.

Registration is required. To register or for more information, please email call 708-839-6897

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (May 20, 2026)

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

While conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees, we will begin with the topic of advocating for yourself or your child with Dr. Julie Skolnick: 3 Things You Need To Know When Advocating

Minecraft Geology (May 22, 2026)

Fri, 22 May 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Learn the truth about the rocks showcased in the Minecraft video games.

For more information, please email southzoneprogram@cookcountyil.gov or call 708-771-9632.

Family Concert: Little Lunas (May 29, 2026)

Fri, 29 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

All ages. Sisters Belinda and Maritza Cervantes merge their love of music and education to bring you Little Lunas, an interactive bilingual kids concert including movement, instruments, and play.

More information here.

Explore the Forest (May 31, 2026)

Sun, 31 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Learn about conservation throughout Cook County with animal encounters, tree climbing, touch-a-truck and more. Food concessions available for purchase.

For questions or more information, please call 847-381-6592

National Math Stars Family Information Sessions (June 01, 2026)

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Join one of our monthly information sessions to learn about the program, understand the admissions process, and ask questions of our team.

See Family Information Sessions at the bottom of the Apply to be a National Math Star page for registration links.

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (June 02, 2026)

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

June 2
June 9
September 8
October 20
November 17

SENG: The Purpose Compass: Navigating Human-Centered Pathways for Thriving Futures (June 02, 2026)

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

This final session highlights key takeaways from the series and how gifted individuals, educators, clinicians, parents, and caring others can apply them in real life. Through case illustrations, we explore “Freedom to Be” and human-centered pathways that help gifted individuals translate potential into purposeful, thriving futures.

*NOTE: Registration closes May 29, 2026*

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (June 07, 2026)

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

June 7
July 19
August 2
September 6
October 4
November 8
December 6

Earthquake Engineering (June 08, 2026)

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Grades 3-5. This hands-on STEM program will cover the physical forces that accompany earthquakes and some of the engineering strategies that are used to mitigate damage and save lives.

More information here.

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (June 09, 2026)

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

June 9
September 8
October 20
November 17

IAGC/OAGC Virtual Midwest Leadership Summit: A Patchwork of Advanced Learning (June 23, 2026)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

2026 Virtual MIDWEST LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: SCOTT PETERS, NWEA

Tuesday June 23, 2026

8am - 3pm Central / 9am - 4pm Eastern

Illinois Association for Gifted Children

in collaboration with Ohio Association for Gifted Children

LEARN MORE

Registration opens March 1, 2026

Early Registration & Member Discount ends June 12, 2026

Registration CLOSES June 18, 2026 11:59pm Central

IAGC MEMBER: $225

NON-MEMBER TICKET: $275

A discussion of gifted and acceleration policies, programs, and possibilities among different states for administrators, program coordinators, state legislators, & school board members.

Hosted by Illinois Association for Gifted Children (IAGC) in cooperation with Ohio Association for Gifted Children (OAGC).

Open to Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan and other Midwest State Education Stakeholders.

Disney's The Little Mermaid - Uptown Music Theater of Highland Park (July 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney's The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages - about identity, community, and finding the strength of your inner voice. Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter dreams of exploring the human world and falling in love. After bargaining with Ursula the evil sea witch to trade her tail for legs, Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. With its irresistible songs, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl," and “Part of Your World”, Disney's The Little Mermaid will capture your heart!

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with one 15-minute intermission. Appropriate for all ages.

More information and tickets here.

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (July 19, 2026)

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

July 19
August 2
September 6
October 4
November 8
December 6

Disney's The Little Mermaid - Uptown Music Theater of Highland Park (July 24, 2026)

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with one 15-minute intermission. Appropriate for all ages.

More information and tickets here.

Disney's The Little Mermaid - Uptown Music Theater of Highland Park (July 31, 2026)

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with one 15-minute intermission. Appropriate for all ages.

More information and tickets here.

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (August 02, 2026)

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

August 2
September 6
October 4
November 8
December 6

Printmaking Lab (August 06, 2026)

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Turn your ideas into bold, eye‑catching prints in this hands‑on class. Explore the world of printmaking through carving, stamping, rolling paint, and experimenting with textures and patterns. This event is for registrants grade 6th Grade to 12th Grade.

More information here.

Free Annual MAGE/CGCC Gifted Community Beach Meetup (August 09, 2026)

Sun, 09 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

You are invited to our Free Annual MAGE Gifted Community Beach Meetup on Sunday, August 8, 2025 • 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Humboldt Park Beach, 1400 N Humboldt Dr, Chicago, IL 60651

Free Parking (see map).

Bathrooms: Available at the field house.

Bring your own: Chairs, blankets, tents, toys, food, and sun protection.

Notes:

Beach is public—we won’t be exclusively alone there.
This is not a drop-off event; parents are responsible for supervising their own children.
Weather updates: facebook.com/MageEducation

Open to the entire MAGE community, including CGCC, Davidson, MENSA, and PGR families. No formal activities provided, this is a social gathering/picnic.

MAGE Professional Educators and Providers Open House & Coffee (August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Calling all educators and providers! Join us for an Open House Coffee at MAGE, a non-profit community supporting the gifted. We've been serving the Chicago area since 2018 and running a full-day school for 4 years. Our school caters to students from Junior Kindergarten through 12th grade and is recognized by the IL State Board of Ed.

We're excited to extend a warm welcome to Professional Educators and Providers for the first time at our Open House Coffee event. Come and learn more about our mission and the services we offer. Here are the details:

Date: Thursday, August 20th, 2026
Time: 10AM-11:30 AM
Location: 900 North Franklin Street, Ste 200., Chicago IL 60642. (Just a few blocks from the 90/94 at Orleans and the Chicago Brown Line Stop.)

Coffee and sandwiches will be provided to keep you energized as you explore our school and connect with fellow professionals.

Register now at the following link: https://forms.gle/fpvTehNxtcPjgusn6

Don't miss out on this opportunity to network, learn, and be a part of our growing community. We look forward to meeting you!

#MAGECommunity #OpenHouseCoffee #EducatorsAndProviders

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (September 06, 2026)

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

September 6
October 4
November 8
December 6

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (September 08, 2026)

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

September 8
October 20
November 17

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (October 04, 2026)

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

October 4
November 8
December 6

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (October 20, 2026)

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

October 20
November 17

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (November 08, 2026)

Sun, 08 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

November 8
December 6

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 14:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

November 17

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (December 06, 2026)

Sun, 06 Dec 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

December 6