Purpose Statement

The primary purpose of schooling in our District is the transmission and acquisition of knowledge and culture in areas necessary to our students' continuing development and preparation for higher education. This will be done through a rigorous curriculum in all traditional subject areas. At a minimum, such areas include the language arts, mathematics, the biological, physical and social sciences, the fine arts, and physical development and health. Another important purpose, in conjunction with parents, families and other societal institutions, is to contribute to the development of character, citizenship, sense of justice and fairness, respect for the differences among people, and respect for the environment.

Each student of District 161 will be taught a balanced, broad-based educational foundation of facts, knowledge, and skills and the ability to use these tools as necessary to enter and be successful in high school. In particular, every student will:

  • have proficient reading skills, developed through direct, intensive, systematic, early and comprehensive phonics instruction, and master materials of superior literary quality
  • be able to communicate effectively in written and oral form, with style, discipline, proper grammar and correct spelling
  • have mastered basic mathematical skills so they become a useful tool in solving quantitative problems
  • have become a competent student of the scientific method and have acquired a mastery of the science of the world around us
  • have knowledge and appreciation of and curiosity for music, the arts, and our cultural heritage
  • have working knowledge of the geography and economic, social, cultural, and political history of the United States and the world
  • have a beginning proficiency in a foreign language and an exposure to the cultures of other countries
  • be scholastically competent in basic learning skills
  • be able to transfer learning to life situations.

Integrated into the development of these skills, a District 161 education will encourage each student to cultivate good character and a healthy sense of self, as well as:

  • a sense of enthusiasm, responsibility and self-discipline towards education
  • the ability to be a capable decision maker
  • self-confidence, poise, and presence borne of accomplishment
  • the ability to set high standards for achievement and behavior and have the discipline to meet them
  • the ability to take the initiative
  • a healthy sense of competition
  • the ability to work well with others
  • a commitment to physical and mental wellness
  • the ability to be an independent learner
  • self- motivation
  • positive risk taking
  • the ability to adapt and change
  • a productive work ethic.
 
Mission Statement

MISSION STATEMENT OF FLOSSMOOR SCHOOL DISTRICT 161

The mission of School District 161 is to challenge every student, without exception, to acquire a core of academic knowledge, and master basic skills. The District will provide a rigorous learning environment where our students will acquire a broad based education and develop critical thinking skills, all in accordance with the District's Philosophy of Instruction. Our goal is for our students to gain the knowledge and self confidence they will need to ensure their future success.