Skip To Main Content

LEAD Academy

LEAD Page

Welcome to LEAD Academy!

The Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Action & Design (LEAD) Academy at Streamwood High School is a Magnet Schools of America Nationally Certified Program. The LEAD Academy offers an innovative business and marketing curriculum where students develop the skills to become problem solvers, leaders, and innovators in a collaborative learning environment.

In response to the demands of both domestic and global economies, students learn to design products, apply innovation and design thinking, and utilize lean startup practices. These experiences build a strong, real-world skills portfolio that prepares students for success as they complete the program and pursue individualized postsecondary pathways.

Choosing the Right Academy

Families should focus on the Magnet Academy's content and student interests. Consider your child’s strengths, goals, and readiness for new challenges when selecting a program.

Important: Please read the full Magnet Guide before applying.

Apply here: Magnet Academy Application

Magnet Academy Application Requirements

  • GPA Requirement: Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in 7th grade. 
  • Students must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA through the end of 8th grade to keep their seat.

Eligibility: Open to all students living within School District U-46 boundaries.

Preferences and Priorities

Preferences: 

Lottery Preferences allow students to gain automatic acceptance into the magnet program, provided they meet the minimum qualification listed below

  • Project Access: students who are homeless or in a temporary living situation

Priorities:

Lottery Priorities allow students to gain additional entries into the lottery if they meet the minimum qualifications and show evidence of meeting the additional criteria.

  • Geographical Location: Students who live within the geographic boundaries of the school receive an additional entry (1).
  • Program Participation: Students who participate in identified middle school coursework, extracurricular activities, or community-based programming receive an additional entry (1).
  • Free or Reduced Lunch: Students who receive free or reduced lunch receive an additional entry (1).
  • Academic Recognition: Students who achieved a GPA of 3.75 or higher in 7th grade will receive an additional entry (1).