The Principal's point of view
Andrea Hunley, September 22, 2012
The mission of CFI is to develop a community of respectful, life long learners, who use inquiry, critical thinking, and problem solving skills, to be socially responsible contributors to a changing global society
CFI is a jewel in the IPS crown. The curriculum is challenging and engaging. The 5th grade IB exhibition was amazing. Our daughter and her friends put so much thought and effort into their issues, I was blown away with the things they tackled. The teachers at this school are phenominal. They are responsive if there are questions or concerns and they know the kids really well. I've also been impressed with Mrs. Hunley.
—Submitted by a parent
As a parent who sends his children to CFI, I can state without hesitation that the school has a wonderful sense of community. Communication with parents is outstanding, through online systems, parent-teacher conferences, and speedy replies to emails from our childrens' teachers. Every morning our children are greeted with smiling faces and kind words. We enjoy talking with other parents as we pick up and drop off our children. In regards to class size, I found the sizes to be no larger than some of the private schools we looked at, and in some instances, they were smaller. The principal is new, and may seem formal at first, but throughout the year she has proven to be very warm and caring, sitting with the kids during convocations and reassuring one of my children when he had a hard time saying goodbye to us one day. Our kids look up to her and love her visits to the classroom! I am very happy with our children's experience at CFI.
—Submitted by a parent
I have been extremely lucky to work at CFI for 12 years. Throughout my time, I have been supported by amazing colleagues, administrators, parents, and community partners. The children I serve are passionate about learning and community service. CFI is more than a school, it is a family.
—Submitted by a teacher
We have had kids at this amazing IB school for 10 years, and it is nothing short of remarkable--rigorous, nurturing, diverse, arts savvy, project-based, eco-conscious, entirely focused on the whole child and launching them as inquiring citizens of the world. This is what public education should be.
—Submitted by a parent
For five years, I was an at home parent. I've watched my daughter Kayla grow in many ways. I am so very proud of the growth she's already undergoing by attending CFI.
—Submitted by a parent
It's a neighborhood school with an international perspective. CFI focuses on not just the 3 R's, but strives for well-rounded children who come well-rounded adults.
—Submitted by a parent
This is our first year here. I think this school does a great job on student success. They really help each and every student succeed in all aspects of learning.
—Submitted by a parent
The diversity, the teachers, the principle. What is there not to love. My kids love to go to school!
—Submitted by a parent
I attended Center For Inquiry for 8 years and it prepared me for my future. The teachers put a lot of work into their curriculum and collaborate with each other to make lessons that work for everyone. The school is a community where teachers, parents, and students all have a say in what they would like to learn.
Center For Inquiry is an award-winning K-8 in Indianapolis. It just received a Blue Ribbon Award from the Dept. of Education for excellence.
—Submitted by a parent
I am currently and 8th grader at The Center for Inquiry. I have been attending since the 1st grade, and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my experience there. The teachers care about their students and want you to succeed. The diversity is great, and the curriculum is challenging.
—Submitted by a student
I grew up in the suburbs of Indianapolis and received an excellent education. I was nervous about sending our child into the IPS school district until I discovered CFI. We are going on three years at the school and I couldn't be happier. The teachers and staff are amazing and any time I've had a concern they have addressed it promptly. What really makes this school though is it's not just the teachers that care but also the parents. There is a very strong community there that is not at all exclusive. Now we just have to figure out high school
—Submitted by a parent
I love CFI School #2. Ms. Collier and Mr. Turner are the most involved, caring, hard-working school leaders I've known. The parental and teacher involvement is phenomenal as well. Mr. Heiter, Mr. Bollenbacher, Mrs. Beaumont, Mrs. Snow, Ms. Draa...all superb teachers.
—Submitted by a parent
Excellent school with high standards for academics and behavior. Teachers and staff are extremely dedicated and enthusiastic. My 5th grader transferred to CFI from another IPS school and the difference is astounding. My children have attended public, private and parochial schools, so we have some perspective with which to compare schools. CFI is by far the best elementary school we have experienced. We feel lucky to be a part of this community.
—Submitted by a parent
My grand daughter is attending CFI and we are very happy with the school and staff. I sent all of my children to parochial school so I was a little apprehensive. What a great surpirse! Great programs. Nice to see so many parents (and grand parents!) involved.
—Submitted by Rosemary, a parent
CFI(Center For Inquiry) is a high quality school that offers many extracurricular activities and has a relatively high level of parent involvement. The school is inquiry-based with a focus on the needs and interests of the students. The school has multi-age classrooms. My 5th grader has been there since Kindergarten and feels very secure. She knows the teachers and many of the students in different grade levels.
—Submitted by a parent
This is an excellent school. It has small classroom size and a great teacher to student ratio. My youngest daughter attends this school and loves everything about it. The parents are encouraged to be involved. We are a tight knit community. It also is great that my child does not have to attend another school for middle school. She can attend the same school for 9 years. Next year we are hoping to have a full year class schedule, which will be wonderful for my family. I highly recommend this school. You have to apply early to get in but it is well worth the time.
—Submitted by Ami Kindley, a parent
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