When the state measures a well-rounded school, they look for a combination of academic growth, proficiency in core subjects, attendance, and a supportive school climate. Based on the most recent Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) data, CICS Irving Park is excited to share that CICS Irving Park has achieved the highest overall index score for K–8 charter schools in Chicago! 
This milestone is a testament to the tireless work the CICS Irving Park teachers and staff have done under the leadership of Principal J.W. Kuebler. Mr. Kuebler operates with a resolute belief that every student has the ability to achieve at the highest level when given the right opportunities. A few years ago, Mr. Kuebler identified a need to return to high-level rigor across all classrooms and made grade-level instruction the standard for every student, ensuring that no matter which door a child walks through, they are met with challenging and meaningful work. Through a culture of consistent coaching, feedback, and accountability, he has equipped and inspired the CICS Irving Park team to hone their craft and deliver their best every day.
Perhaps most importantly, Mr. Kuebler has built a "village" within our school walls. He fosters a spirit of shared expertise where teachers collaborate, share great ideas with one another, and feel safe to innovate. By putting students as the number one priority in every decision, Mr. Kuebler has helped create the thriving, high-achieving community we celebrate today.
As a Distinctive Schools campus, we believe that when students feel seen, supported, and engaged, academic success naturally follows—but what does this look like in practice? It looks like a community that functions as a year-round village for our families, and this ISBE recognition reflects our students' exceptional progress in English Language Arts and Math, as well as our school’s commitment to providing a high-quality, personalized learning environment in a safe, welcoming space for all.
Our school’s continued growth and success are driven by multiple factors. Here are just a few intentional ways we are fueling this success:
Soft Start, Strong Outcomes
One of the key drivers behind our success is our robust Soft Start program. Every morning, doors open at 7:45 a.m. for this free programming, giving students the agency to choose how they begin their day. Whether it’s quiet reading, working on a puzzle with a friend, or burning off energy on the playground or gym, Soft Start allows students to ease into their morning and set a positive tone for learning.
This personalized approach has made a tangible impact: Soft Start has helped to decrease chronic absenteeism and increase overall attendance. When students are present, they are able to build relationships with peers and staff, are receiving resources and care they need to be successful, and—most importantly—are learning.
Cultivating Agency and Belonging
Our success is also built on student agency—an essential driver of academic growth. In Ms. Heinemann’s Makerspace class, students experience a “safe space to fail,” reflect, and try again. Through creative exploration in areas such as DIY design and food sciences, students strengthen self-management, perseverance, and problem-solving—core competencies that support productive struggle and deeper learning in other classrooms. As confidence and sense of belonging have grown in students, so has their willingness to engage deeply with challenging academic tasks.
This culture of agency extends beyond the classroom through our Student Council, led by Ms. Heinemann and social worker Ms. Murillo. By elevating student voice and shared leadership, students learn goal-setting, collaboration, and accountability—skills that strengthen engagement, attendance, and ownership of learning. Together, these experiences cultivate a school environment where our students feel connected, motivated, and accountable, resulting in stronger academic engagement and sustained student growth.
Thriving Community Connections
Our Community Hub Model, led by Ms. Morganne, our Community School Coordinator, is another evidence point for how we intentionally support our community in service of student outcomes. Through intentional partnerships with local organizations, neighborhood businesses, and family-serving agencies, CICS Irving Park removes barriers that often stand in the way of student learning. From summer movie nights and family playdates to targeted family workshops and on-site resources, these partnerships build trust, strengthen family-school relationships, and provide more opportunities for students to arrive at school ready to learn. By increasing family engagement, improving attendance, and providing wraparound support, our community partnerships directly contribute to stronger academic outcomes and sustained student growth—long before the first bell rings and well beyond the final dismissal.
While we celebrate this incredible achievement, our work is far from finished. We will continue to innovate and strive for excellence every day, with the ultimate goal of joining the ranks of the top 10% of schools in the state granted the "Exemplary" designation.
We remain committed to being the best for our scholars, and we are grateful for the trust and partnership of our families.
Want to join our incredible community? If you know a family looking for a K–8 school where students grow and thrive, we’d love for you to help spread the word about CICS Irving Park. Apply today or schedule a tour to learn more!