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A graduating class of Unit 5 high school seniors stand outside and smile up at the camera.

 

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Mission

“Unit 5 will educate each student to achieve personal excellence.” 

History

Exterior of the Unit 5 Central Office with a sign that indicates this.

On May 8, 1948, voters approved the formation of a school district that today is legally known as Community Unit School District No. 5, McLean and Woodford Counties, Illinois. The district includes 11 congressional townships and serves parts of Bloomington, all of Carlock, Hudson, Normal, and Towanda and rural areas surrounding each of these communities. McLean County Unit District No. 5 employs approximately 1,650 full and part-time staff members to educate approximately 13,000 students. The district spans more than 214 square miles, with 17 elementary, 4 junior high and 2 high school buildings, and 1 vocational training site. The district has 156 Illinois Department of Transportation-approved buses in its fleet. Buses travel 1.9 million miles annually, delivering more than 10,000 students to 23 schools.

The 2024-25 education fund operating budget is approximately $140 million.  A Citizens Advisory Council assists the Board in researching issues and securing advice from the parents and citizens of the district.

Growth and change have been issues constantly facing the school system. Other constants are the pride in Unit 5, the pursuit of quality public education, and "educating each student to achieve personal excellence."

Commitments

We are committed to...

INTEGRITY
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Integrity

We believe in challenging what we do and how we do it. Therefore, we build trust and earn respect through honesty, fair process, and transparency in our decision-making.

Belonging
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Belonging

We believe in fostering a safe, courageous, and inclusive environment for all. Therefore, we develop relationships that are accepting, validating, and appreciative of differences.

Engagement
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Engagement

We believe in igniting inspiration and supporting innovation. Therefore, we optimize learning experiences that foster curiosity and develop a passion for learning among all students and staff.

Teamwork
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Teamwork

We believe in making a collective and collaborative impact. Therefore, we are intentional about being open to all ideas and solutions toward accomplishing our goals.

Excellence
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Excellence

We believe in high expectations with high support. Therefore, we elevate our community by embracing change through continuous improvement, individually and collectively.