Palos West Elementary School - Palos Park, IL

Palos West Elementary School's academic success is rooted in a history of collaborative learning, positive culture, and strong partnership with the community. Palos West prides itself on having talented and dedicated staff that go the extra mile, so students can reach their full potential in academic and social-emotional development.

Palos West has committed to using the Professional Learning Community model (PLC) to ensure that students master essential learning standards preparing them for success at the next grade level. This work has led teams to a guaranteed and viable curriculum, rigorous classroom lessons, and an ongoing cycle of questions that lead to high levels of student achievement. Striving to meet the needs of the whole child, Palos West makes it a priority to create a safe, supportive culture using Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). The professional staff fosters positive behavior by teaching clear expectations, using common language, and recognizing students.Service learning is also something that Palos West takes part in. Staff instills a sense of civic responsibility in students through philanthropic projects such as an annual mitten collection, food drive for the local food pantry, Ronald McDonald House pull tab collection, and recently a collection to help refugees impacted by the war in Ukraine.

Setting high standards and expectations for all, working collaboratively in a Professional Learning Community, maintaining a safe and positive school culture, and working with all stakeholders is what makes Palos West a success. The indescribable positive environment and vibe in the building is what makes it feel like home.