H. R. McCall Elementary School - Waukegan, IL

At McCall School, we believe in high expectations for all with a strong focus on building positive character. We work collaboratively with staff, students, and families to achieve academic excellence with integrity. Establishing strong teacher-student relationships builds a solid foundation for students to meet their goals in a safe learning environment. We foster strong community partnerships and focus on building trusting relationships between all stakeholders. Our relationship with the National Waukegan Airport is an example of this. Our school sits adjacent to the airport and we have created an Aviation Club that meets in the morning to foster interest in aviation and develop future aviators through engaging hands-on STEM activities. We volunteer for the annual airshow and many of our families attend. It was only fitting that we became the "McCall Aviators."

Our teams utilize student data to drive the implementation of best instructional practices. We provide students with rigorous enrichment opportunities. McCall has a school-wide What I Need (W.I.N.) time block designated for the implementation of literacy interventions. All hands are on deck to help during this time. Reading support teachers, classroom teachers, encore teachers (P.E., Art, Music, STEM), and support staff collaborate to implement research-based interventions.

The McCall School family leads new initiatives that align with our well-developed school improvement plan. Teachers and staff are empowered and lead with motivation to keep all students engaged in high-quality instruction. Students feel that the McCall community supports them academically allowing them to grow and become well-equipped citizens.