This site has been prepared to provide an overview of the District 97 curriculum at each grade level. It is not meant to be all-inclusive. Instead, its purpose is to provide basic information about District 97's curriculum and encourage parents to participate more fully in their child’s educational experience.

As you read these grade-level curriculum overviews, there are several important points to keep in mind. First, multicultural education is integral to teaching and learning in District 97. The goal of multicultural education is for students to develop a deep understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity that they will demonstrate for the rest of their lives.

Second, instructional technology is integrated throughout the curriculum. Students have multiple opportunities to create and innovate with technology, either in the classroom or in a lab setting. Teachers create new learning opportunities by using a variety of authoring tools and curriculum-based software. Online resources, including the Internet, are used to access information.

Third, the District 97 educational experience is intended to help students acquire essential qualities descriptive of a well-educated person and fundamental to life-long learning and success. We have defined these qualities as knowledgeable person, socially responsible citizen, quality producer, effective communicator, collaborative worker, and critical thinker. In the world of the classroom, the essential qualities are integrated into programs of study which are often presented in holistic and interdisciplinary ways.

Fourth, in many ways, the curriculum is always “under construction”. In District 97, we are committed to continuously renewing the curriculum so that District 97 students have the best possible education. We pay particular attention to current research and findings of educational institutions and organizations. The Illinois State Goals are incorporated into all areas of instruction.

Finally, we recognize that our students will live their lives in this new century. We are committed to providing an educational program that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities that await them.

A special thank you to Dr. John Fagan, Dr. Mary T. Schneider, Gail Crantz, and Shirley Honig for their insight and creative talents that brought this publication together in 1994.