The Laboratory Schools are home to the youngest members of the University of Chicago’s academic community. At Lab, we ignite and nurture an enduring spirit of scholarship, curiosity, creativity, and confidence. Our Schools value learning experientially, exhibiting kindness, and honoring diversity.

Lab educates a diverse community of 2,200 students from Nursery through grade 12. Established in 1896 by renowned philosopher and educator John Dewey, the Laboratory Schools is a pioneer in the progressive education movement and, to this day, continues to provide a best-in-class learning curriculum—more than 125 years later.

In addition to a rich history of innovation and excellence, Lab is strengthened by its relationship with the University of Chicago, a world-class university where lifelong learning is modeled all around us. About half of Lab students are children of faculty and staff of the University; many of whom are distinguished professors, researchers and authors. As a result, Lab students live and learn in an extended community that places a unique value on intellectual curiosity and creativity; open-mindedness; critical thinking and analysis; and respect for evidence. Located on the University’s campus in the historic Hyde Park community, the Laboratory Schools embrace a deep commitment to diversity—in all of its expressions—equity, and inclusion.

Lab is one of the nation’s largest independent schools and boasts a lively, close-knit community where every student is known and cared for as an individual. Students are encouraged to stretch, take risks, and to see education as a lifelong adventure.