Evanston Approved Zoning for Former Roycemore School Site
The city cleared the path for Alpha School to occupy the space at 1200 Davis St. following a zoning application filing.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Evanston officials have approved a zoning analysis application for the former Roycemore School building at 1200 Davis St. The approval paves the way for Alpha School to potentially launch a new campus at the location by fall 2027.
Why it matters
The transition follows the closure of Roycemore School, which struggled with financial instability and will not operate for the 2026-27 academic year. The proposed opening of a new school model highlights shifting approaches to private education and building utilization in Evanston.
The property at 1200 Davis St. spans 55,000 square feet and features an 8,000-square-foot gymnasium. Alpha School, which mandates two hours of daily AI software usage for students, requires a minimum of 25 enrolled students to proceed with the opening.
The players
Alpha School
This educational organization, founded in 2014, emphasizes a curriculum that integrates AI software and utilizes non-certified teaching guides.
Roycemore School
A long-standing Evanston educational institution that announced its closure following persistent financial difficulties.
CDS Development
A Dallas-based development firm that filed the zoning application for the transformation of the 1200 Davis St. property.
Guidepost Montessori
An existing educational provider located at 1012 Davis St. that maintains a different pedagogical approach without the use of AI tools.
The details
CDS Development filed the zoning application for the site, which proposes interior cosmetic updates including new furniture and painting. Unlike nearby institutions such as Guidepost Montessori, Alpha School utilizes guides with bachelor's degrees rather than certified teachers.
Timeline
The Roycemore board announced the school closure on July 15, 2026.
The zoning application was filed on August 10, 2026.
City officials approved the zoning analysis application in September 2026.
Alpha School plans to open the new location in fall 2027.
Market Landscape
This move represents a growing trend of private firms acquiring or repurposing older educational facilities to launch niche, technology-focused school models. It positions the incoming institution against established local providers like Guidepost Montessori while capitalizing on available real estate.
Local residents will see the former Roycemore building transition into a new school, though the site will remain vacant until at least fall 2027. Future enrollment policies and the school's focus on AI software may influence educational choices for Evanston families seeking private alternatives.
The takeaway
The repurposing of the Roycemore School site marks a transition toward modern, AI-integrated educational models in Evanston. Residents should monitor future public meetings for updates on the site's interior renovations and enrollment progress.
Further reading
For more information on local business shifts, see Evanston Openings & Closings.
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