United States, Chicago
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Pulaski uses a researched based SEL curriculum or framework to plan and implement SEL instruction with fidelity and monitor targeted Tier 1 and Tier 2 SEL instructional strategies. The IB Primary Years and Middle Years Programmes focus on the development of positive attitudes toward people, the environment and learning, with attitudes including Appreciation, Commitment, Confidence, Cooperation, Creativity, Curiosity, Empathy, Enthusiasm, Independence, Integrity, Respect and Tolerance. 1st and 3rd grade students participate in the Nora Project, an empathy education program called the Kindness Curriculum which teaches inclusion. Second Step is taught in PreK–5 with a supplemental bullying prevention curriculum. The entire school participates in Calm Classroom, a mindfulness program that includes brain breaks. Pulaski offers counseling services; the school counselor addresses academic and social needs, and 6th–8th grade students receive guidance for high school placement; counseling is available for attendance-related or other concerns, and students with academic or behavioral difficulties may be evaluated by the Special Education Team.
Students who exhibit academic or behavioral difficulties may be individually evaluated by the Special Education Team under the direction of a counselor or case manager. Counseling Services support the academic and social needs of students.
Pulaski is home to a Regional Gifted Center for English Language Learners (RGC-EL), one of the city's three RGC-ELs. The program provides instruction in both English and Spanish to gifted bilingual students, promoting biliteracy and bicultural identity. The mission and vision emphasize developing gifted bilingual students who speak Spanish as their home language and shaping leaders in a multilingual, global society.
Health and Wellness are addressed as part of the curriculum; students participate in recess and brain breaks daily and are encouraged to make healthy eating choices. Counseling Services are available to address academic and social needs; emergency counseling is provided as needed and 6th–8th grade students receive guidance for high school placement. The IB Primary Years and Middle Years Programmes, along with the Nora Project, Second Step and Calm Classroom, support social-emotional development and positive attitudes toward learning.
Safety, Security and Medical Information are outlined, including Building Security and Fire, Disaster and Lockdown Drills. The school follows the Chicago Public Schools Student Code of Conduct and PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) with the Pulaski Way: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Positive, Be Safe. Internet and device safety are monitored with GoGuardian and adherence to the CPS Internet Users Policy. The school nurse provides health oversight and medical forms are maintained; emergency procedures and medical care are described for students.
Pulaski International School of Chicago is a public International Baccalaureate World School within Chicago Public Schools, serving students ages 4 to 14. It offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) with English as the language of instruction. The curriculum includes Math, Performing Arts, Physical and Health Education, MYP Design, and Spanish Language Acquisition, delivered through project-based instruction, differentiated teaching, with biliteracy and cross-cultural understanding. Language teachers provide weekly updates to families. A distinctive feature is the Regional Gifted Center for English Language Learners, with Spanish as the primary language and English language support, delivering accelerated reading and math while aligning with the IB framework for all students. The Biliteracy Seal is supported through an associated exam. The arts program covers Art, Music, and Design, and field trips extend learning across disciplines. The school emphasizes social-emotional learning within a bilingual, cross-cultural environment.