Clifford P Carlson Elementary School

Clifford P. Carlson Elementary School, at 4015 Pepper Dr, Rockford, IL, is a public K–5 school in District 205 serving around 360 students with an 18-to-1 student–teacher ratio.Known for its exceptional diversity ranking (A+ statewide), it enrolls a multicultural student body: approximately 33% Hispanic, 33% White, 24% Black, and 8% multiracial.Academic performance shows 22% proficiency in reading and 12% in math—below state averages. Recent student data highlights third-grade reading at 15.2% and math at 19.6%, with notable improvements in fifth-grade science (34.5%) post-pandemic.GreatSchools rates it at 5/10, suggesting average performance with room for growth.

Mentorship Program in Action: Carlson participates in the Kids Hope USA mentorship program, where volunteers like Lori Cruden build long-term supportive relationships, enriching student well-being.

Q1: What grades does Carlson Elementary serve? A1: It serves Kindergarten through 5th grade as part of Rockford School District 205. Q2: How many students attend Carlson, and what is the student–teacher ratio? A2: The school enrolls roughly 360 students with a student–teacher ratio of 18:1, which is somewhat above the Illinois state average. Q3: What are the academic proficiency levels? A3: Around 22% of students are proficient in reading, and 12% in math—below state norms Niche. Post-pandemic data shows literacy and numeracy rates vary by grade, while science proficiency saw stronger recovery. Q4: What recent improvements or programs are notable? A4: Carlson extended its school day by 45 minutes starting in Fall 2023 to enhance learning time. The school also underwent infrastructure upgrades—including a new gym and kitchen—approved back in 2018 . The Kids Hope USA mentorship program fosters valuable adult-student relationships. Q5: What are the school hours? A5: Carlson Elementary operates Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. as per Chamber of Commerce listings.