CICS Prairie -

In Ms. Curry’s classroom at CICS Prairie, learning is an immersive, joyful experience where students lead just as much as they participate. Her belief that you have to see it to internalize it creates a fun, engaging environment for her students. She expertly blends hands-on, visual, and auditory learning methods in order to connect with every one of her students. 

Ms. Curry’s use of data-informed instruction allows her to meet each student exactly where they are, guiding them as they take ownership of their learning and growth. Ms. Curry prioritizes building community and belonging that extends from her classroom to every family. She believes that the sense of community belonging is how students build trust and collaboration. The relationships she builds create an environment where every student feels an undeniable sense of ownership and belonging at school.

When CICS Prairie eighth-grade student Damarreon sees an opportunity, he seizes it. A natural leader who excels in his own pursuits, Damarreon loves his school community and enjoys taking on the responsibility of actively shaping it. He sparked the start of the school’s Student Council, where he serves as the President, and started a drone flying club as well! Whether reading to younger students or setting school records in track, Damarreon approaches challenges with the belief that you learn from losses—if you don’t try, how do you learn?

Damarreon’s leadership thrives in a responsive environment like CICS Prairie, where students drive their own learning. Teachers and staff listen deeply, and ensure that student ideas are a valued part of our culture. Damarreon’s commitment to making school a better place, combined with CICS Prairie’s support for student voice, cements our commitment to learners as powerful agents of positive change within the school and beyond.

CICS Prairie paraprofessional Mr. Blockson embodies the spirit of community that defines our school. His commitment is deeply rooted in the neighborhood, fueling his work with students—some of whom he has known and loved since kindergarten. Working in Special Education, Mr. Blockson focuses on instilling a true love of learning. He sees his role as balancing rigor with joy, ensuring his students see school as a place of both work and play. This profound investment in our learners is the driving force that keeps him returning to CICS Prairie every single day.