601 School Dr
Fox River Grove, IL 60021

We could not be happier. Cary-Grove administration, teachers, counselors, and all staff we have encountered actually have been amazing. Our senior student has flourished with so many different opportunities. Students of all walks are celebrated. Students are KIND to each other and care for each other. The staff strive to build resilience in students and prepare them for life after high school. Thank you Cary-Grove!

The biggest problem with this school is the principal, Mr. Walton. He cares more about forming cliques and alliances than providing our kids structure and discipline. We were so blessed with our previous principals and were hoping with Dr. Mayer's arrival as superintendent, he would deal with this issue. So many parents have voiced complaints and we really expected our voices to be heard in firing Scott Walton, but we came to learn last night the plan instead was to fire one of our SEL teachers who was incredible, and a third-grade teacher's position was eliminated reducing each grade to two classrooms. This is because instead of proactively handling children's behavior issues with their parents, Mr. Walton chose a customer-service approach as he lacked the leadership skills to properly handle issues. ARS then approved IEPs for 40% of the 3rd-grade class, and now SEL and teachers are being fired to cover up leadership's poor handling of these kids. I never thought I'd utter these words... but if Mr. Walton stays, we will lose any confidence left in the school board and Dr. Mayer's decision-making abilities, and send our children to private school. It's just crazy how fast this once-lauded elementary school has completely fallen apart. These poor teachers and aides... it's not their faults. It's truly the administration and school board.

Our decision to relocate to Fox River Grove was influenced by the appeal of smaller schools and reduced class sizes. Initially, we were enamored with the educational institutions. Over time, however, it became apparent that the administrative decisions made by the school board sometimes prioritize test scores over other essential factors. Despite the dedicated efforts of the exceptional teachers to nurture and educate our children, the district appears to undervalue both the arts and STEM subjects. A noticeable lack of collaboration between teachers and administration persists, leading to a significant rift. The frequent turnover of staff further compounds these existing challenges. They also don't have a very robust sports program, except for track. The board and administration don't seem to have any interest in growing the sports program. The track coach is amazing and goes out of his way to work with kids. He also inspires the kids on the field and in the class. He is probably the one saving grace at the school.