Central Elementary School

We moved to Riverside from another highly rated Chicago suburb and have been incredibly impressed by the energy and engagement of the teaching staff at Central. My daughter is excited to go to school every day, and that has been true with all three of the teachers she has had at Central. We recruited dear friends to move to Riverside as well, and they have noted a marked improvement in the teaching quality, professionalism and resources available at Central compared to their last elementary school, also a 9 rated school.
--Submitted by a parent

My eldest daughter attended Central for K, first and second grade. Since then we have moved four times to four different states. All of the schools she has attended since Central were rated at a 9 or a 10. But, let me tell you from experience, everyone in Riverside should KISS THE GROUND IN THANKS for the blessing and privilege of being able to attend this school district. No other school we have attended comes even CLOSE to the quality of education Hannah received at Central. The quality of the teaching staff, parental involvement, and community support are unparalleled ANYWHERE that we have been. Even the blue ribbon winning schools did not beat it. So, anyone thinking of moving to Riverside and are looking at the school system race to the phone and call your Realtor. This is where you want to be.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is amazing I have a 4th grader and a 1st grader going there at the moment. Today my 1st grader woke up at 5:30, which is usually when my husband and I get up, and she came to me and I was surprised to see her up so early and you know what she said that surpprised me more? She asked if she could help me get dressed because she wanted to go to school early and I asked Why? and she told me about all her teachers and next years plans and that she couldn't wait to do some math. Math! Amazing. Although the school doesn't have extracurricular activities I certainly think that it makes up for that in learning and fun.
--Submitted by a parent

I think the educators are tops! I think the parents could definitely be more involved. The a bully situation is currently out of control, even outside, on school grounds. Music is mostly singing in the lower grades, and I have heard the Art instruction is critical which may not foster creativity. However, academics are excellent and well above par. Central does not seem to offer many/any extracurricular activities. The focus seems to be extremely academic.
--Submitted by a parent

We moved to Riverside in part because we knew it had a great school district. Low class sizes make it possible for a great deal of individual attention. Most of the teachers we have encountered at Central truly love teaching and providing the best education possible for their students. I have been impressed with the self-esteem and maturity instilled in the children through the opportunity to make individual presentations in a variety of settings. Central partners well with a highly demanding community, welcoming parental and community involvement, and fostering an environment of excellence. There are no extra-curricular sports offered through the school, but there are a wide range through the community rec. department. The arts get more than average attention at Central, which we found to be possitive.
--Submitted by a parent