THOMAS METCALF SCHOOL

Thomas Metcalf School is a public elementary school that is part of the ISU Laboratory Schools school district, located in Normal, IL with about 427 students offering grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten to 8th Grade. With about 41 teachers, Thomas Metcalf School has a student/teacher ratio of about 10:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Thomas Metcalf School, located on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, serves as the university’s laboratory school for students in grades PK–8. As a developmental laboratory school, its primary mission is to provide an innovative, research-based learning environment that integrates the latest educational theories with hands-on classroom practice. Because it operates in partnership with the university’s College of Education, the school frequently hosts pre-service teachers and faculty researchers, ensuring that the curriculum remains aligned with current pedagogical best practices and cutting-edge instructional strategies.

The school is well-regarded for its commitment to inclusive education, personalized learning, and the social-emotional development of its students. By fostering a collaborative atmosphere that bridges the gap between theoretical research and real-world application, Metcalf creates a unique educational experience where students benefit from high teacher-to-student ratios and a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and inquiry-based learning. It serves not only as a public school for the local community but also as a hub for educational excellence and professional development for future educators.

For more information, contact Thomas Metcalf School at (309) 438-7621 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.