Irving Elementary School

I love this school. It reminds me of a small town school like when I was growing up. They aren't extremely hard on the students like other schools in the area so it makes for the perfect learning environment.

My children have been attending Irving since pre-k, and their scores exceed the average. As an "affluent" parent, I feel that the school is growing and continues to work towards meeting the needs of the students. I am an involved parent, and I feel that my ideas and concerns are welcomed by the administration.

I am a homeowner in the Tri/Taylor neighborhood where Irving is located. Tri/Taylor is comprised of homeowners and college student renters who attend nearby U of I Circle Campus. My daughter attended Irving from 1rst to 3rd and I was very involved as a parent volunteer and member of the LSC for one year. Only a handful of Tri/Taylor parents send their children to the school and while the neighborhood is affluent, 90% of the students attending Irving qualify for the Federal Free Lunch Program. While I very much respected my daughters teachers I found the administration to be hostile and self-interested. Most recently the assistant principal told one parent that Irving is "her house" meaning the needs or our community are secondary to her own. The school greatly benefits from being located in the heart of our safe and beautiful community, but the community, at present does not benefit enjoying Irving as a truly neighborhood school.

This is my oldest kid's 2nd year there. We love the pre-k team, curriculum, and facility. My 4 yr old is reading and told me the classmates learn to use proper manners. The pre-k teachers are terrific! We love the school.