Leapfrog Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Leapfrog Program?
Go to Program Description for more information.

Why should a gifted student enroll in Leapfrog?
Leapfrog provides an early outlet for students to exercise their intellectual gifts. Check out our Benefits.

What are the admissions criteria for Leapfrog?
Go to Eligibility for more information.

How do I schedule testing?
Testing appointments can be scheduled by calling CTD at 847-491-3782. See Testing for PreK-3rd Graders FAQ for more details.

How are applications reviewed?
All applications are evaluated on a rolling basis, as they are received. Students are notified of the status of their application within four weeks of receipt of a complete application. Only complete applications are processed.

What is the cost of a Leapfrog course?
Go to Policies & Fees.

Who teaches Leapfrog courses?
Distinguished faculty are selected from premiere schools in the Chicago metropolitan area. Teachers are chosen for their subject mastery, classroom experience, enthusiasm, ability to individualize their teaching, and skill in providing interesting, thought-provoking classroom experiences appropriate to young children. Each course has a teaching assistant.

What is the student-teacher ratio?
In order to maximize one-on-one communication, CTD Summer Program courses are limited to 18 students. Each class has a teacher and a teaching assistant. PreK and kindergarten courses are limited to 16 students.

Can students enroll in more than one course?
Yes, PreK-3rd grade students in Evanston may enroll in up to six half-day, week-long morning and/or afternoon courses. PreK-3rd grade students in Glen Ellyn may enroll in up to three half-day, week-long morning courses. 3rd grade students also have to option to enroll in the all-day, week-long courses on Northwestern University's Evanston campus.

Must I submit multiple applications and pay multiple application fees if my child enrolls in more than one course?
No, you submit one application and pay one application fee. Go to Policies & Fees.

Why might my child be placed in a multi-age course?
Based on enrollment, students may be grouped in multi-age courses that span two grade levels. Typical groupings include PreK-K, 1-2, or 2-3. Parents will be notified of their child's placement before class begins.

Will my child receive a grade for the course?
Students will not receive a grade; however, each student will receive a final, written evaluation of their work. The evaluation provides feedback about achievement and performance in the course, student strengths, areas in need of improvement, and student work habits and attitudes. Additionally, parents will have an opportunity to visit their child's classroom on the final Friday of each class to observe an informal Expo of what the students have learned.

What kinds of activities do students do in Leapfrog?
Hands-on activities, experiments, and applications that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and creativity.

What is the lunch and recess option?
A lunch/recess option is offered Monday through Friday from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm at the Evanston half-day site, and Monday through Thursday from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm in Glen Ellyn. Students are supervised by teaching assistants as they eat lunch and participate in recreational activities. Students enrolled in both morning and afternoon classes may participate and will be escorted between their classrooms and lunch/recess. Participation costs $10 per day. Parents must provide a bag lunch that does not require refrigeration. Families may register for the lunch/recess option on the form included in the Leapfrog acceptance packet.

How can I obtain the information necessary for tuition reimbursement through my Flexible Spending Account?
Contact the Summer Program staff to obtain CTD's tax identification number and for assistance with any other paperwork necessary for tuition reimbursement through a Flexible Spending Account. Call us at 847-491-3782 or email us at summer@ctd.northwestern.edu for assistance.