OUR SCHOOL

Cornell's outstanding academic reputation and high student achievement is due in large part to the dedication of its skilled professional staff who have high academic expectations amid a caring school climate. Classroom teachers and specialists are committed to working in partnership with families for the benefit of students. Support staff work closely with teachers to ensure that the goals of the school are met and the needs of individual students are addressed. The school's active school improvement team meets regularly and is highly involved in establishing school goals. The staff works together as a professional learning community to assess student learning and identify areas for improvement.

Cornell has actively involved parents/guardians and community members! Parents/guardians regularly provide support to the school as volunteers in the classroom, library, enrichment activities and special events. They also serve as chaperones and special event planners. The school's well-organized Family Council (parent organization) provides resources that are unable to be funded through regular school funding. These include field trips, classroom supplies, support for clubs, technology and more. Nearly 100% of parents/guardians attend student conferences and are actively involved in fundraising to support the school's goals.

Cornell benefits from its proximity to Michigan State University. The school collaborates with MSU's Teacher Intern program, which has been nationally recognized as one of the most outstanding teacher preparation programs in the country. Fifth year teacher interns work full time throughout most of the school year under the mentorship of a classroom teacher. Proximity to MSU also brings a wealth of diversity to the student population as families come from all over the world. The "international feel" (customs, languages, foods and experiences) of the school enriches the learning environment for everyone--students, families and staff!