CICS West Belden Campus is situated at 2245 North McVicker Avenue in Chicago. It serves 521 students in grades K–8 with a student–teacher ratio of 17:1. Reading proficiency is 10% and math proficiency is 11%. The gender mix consists of 51% male and 49% female. The school creates an innovative, community-based and personalized learning environment to help students reach their full potential. Teachers maximize student growth through the use of technology enhanced instruction and flexible learning environments. The facility has a culture of restorative practices, focusing on social-emotional wellness and mental health. Students participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including a songwriting residency developed in collaboration with the Old Town School of Folk Music . The school is supported by a strong Parent Teacher League and Bilingual Advisory Committee to support families. The curriculum is student-centered and scholars are engaged in learning to become confident self-advocates and creative problem-solvers. It's the cornerstone of the Belmont-Cragin neighborhood locally. Most homes in this neighborhood sell for between $290K and $410K. Parents appreciate the creativity involved in the education and the sense of belonging promoted by the staff. “Families often cite the school’s focus on personalized learning and being a finalist of the Golden Apple Award as a positive. This school is trying to be one of the best elementary schools in Illinois.