We work very hard to meet the intense academic, social, and emotional needs of each and every one of our students. We look critically at student learning in literacy, math, writing, science, social science, health, and the arts. We take a collaborative approach in meeting the needs of our students. We work in teams to assess learning that occurs and we respond to our children's learning with interventions and supports to strengthen the knowledge of all of our students. Students at Carrie Busey are also exposed to a strong program in childhood health and wellness. Children are educated and encouraged to eat healthy foods and remain active in order to build a strong foundation for their future wellness. Carrie Busey supports a very well-rounded educational experience for all students. Each of our staff members makes a special effort to meet the needs of all the students who attend our school. Additionally, our challenge is to provide these quality educational opportunities in an environment of high behavioral expectations.

• 2013 Academic Improvement Award for Exemplary Gains in Performance on the Illinois Learning Standards

• US Department of Education's "Excellence in Education Award"

• Recipient of C.A.T.C.H. program grant for health and wellness.

• Recipient of the NFL's Fuel Up to Play 60 grant for health and wellness.

• Carrie Busey teachers have written and received numerous grants, including the Tepper Electric Grants for the Performing Arts, C-U Foundation Grants, Illinois Power Classroom Grants and various technology grants.

• Recipient of the Lysol Corporation grant for outstanding attendance initiatives.

• Several Carrie Busey teachers have been honored locally as "Golden Apple" recipients.

Carrie Busey's school climate is highly conducive to learning and respect. The staff works together in a positive way to keep standards high for behavior and academic performance. We recognize that children's home backgrounds can influence failure or success, but we believe that classroom instruction determines how much is learned. Our teachers take their responsibility seriously and work earnestly in conjunction with families to see that all children succeed. Relationships with students and their families are paramount to our school performing at its highest level.

Carrie Busey has a strong and active PTA that oversees and coordinates annual social activities to help families and students integrate into the Carrie Busey community. These activities include an Open House, a fitness event in the fall, International Night, Science Night, and a Spring Carnival.

The PTA also:

• Lends support to a number of ongoing academic projects

• Sponsors Carrie Busey book fairs

• Coordinates room parents and classroom volunteers

• Sponsors the "Reflections" competition for the arts

• Sells Carrie Busey shirts

• Sponsors all-school assemblies

• Publishes a school yearbook

• Participates in Carrie Busey's shared decision making

• Supports the school through the purchase of equipment and materials

• Offers teachers yearly grants to support their work in the classroom

Carrie Busey's Enrichment Specialist works with groups of students and classroom teachers to provide challenging activities in a variety of learning areas. The needs of high-ability students are met and all Carrie Busey students are given opportunities to solve problems and meet challenges across the curriculum. Carrie Busey teachers utilize a variety of activities and learning strategies, including hands-on projects, cross-grade partnerships, and a wealth of literature and writing opportunities.

Special programs at Carrie Busey include ESL (English as a Second Language), Title I reading supports for struggling readers, a regional program for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and cross-categorical services for students with disabilities. We also offer enrichment services for students who show academic talents in the areas of literacy, math, and science.

Carrie Busey Elementary works with the TALKS and C-U One-to-One mentoring programs which support students and families who express interest. Mentors meet with students, read, share ideas, play games, and talk about making good decisions. Both mentors and students benefit from the relationships that develop as they get to know one another.

The America Reads and America Counts programs provide university students to tutor students in reading, writing, and math. Additionally, parents and other community organizations tutor our students in a variety of subjects.