About Us
Our core values are deeply rooted in fostering educational excellence and personal growth for all students. Croninger emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication and creativity, encouraging students to approach challenges with curiosity and an open mind. Students are expected to collaborate with others, taking responsibility for their actions and contributing to a caring, safe and respectful community.
Academic Rigor - What We Accomplish
Croninger Elementary School was recently named by U.S. News and Report as the 13th best elementary school in Indiana.
Named a National Blue Ribbon School: In 2022, Fred H. Croninger Elementary was honored as a National Blue Ribbon School, one of the highest recognitions awarded by the U.S. Department of Education for overall academic excellence and progress in closing achievement gaps. This celebrated distinction highlights the school’s commitment to fostering vibrant, inclusive learning communities where students flourish.
For the past two years (2024-25 & 2025-26), Croninger Elementary achieved a 100% passing rate, meaning all tested third graders reached the state’s reading proficiency standard, on the Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination (IREAD-3) assessment.
Values at a Glance
- Each student is expected to uphold the principles of citizenship by promoting respect for oneself and others.
- Integrity and trustworthiness are central to the school's environment.
- Students are encouraged to act responsibly and demonstrate kindness in their interactions.
- A strong partnership among students, families and staff fosters a supportive community.
- The school strives to create an inclusive atmosphere where every child feels valued.
- A commitment to lifelong learning is encouraged, inspiring curiosity and a love for knowledge.
Proud Traditions
Croninger’s magnet program is centered on communication and creativity. The school’s curriculum also emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration through project-based learning, and engagement that fosters literacy and a love of learning. Students from kindergarten through 5th grade engage in weekly Spanish instruction as well as hands-on media production in the school’s own communication studio. Here, students learn to operate professional-grade cameras, teleprompters, audio equipment and editing tools all while producing the school’s daily newscast and other media projects.
Celebrating Our Crusaders
We take pride in developing and recognizing future leaders.
Each week, we honor Leaders of the Week, based on the core competencies of our Portrait of an Explorer. Students are awarded with a certificate and a prize from a local business. Photos of our leaders are posted online and in our building to celebrate students.
Each week, we honor Leaders of the Week, based on the core competencies of our Portrait of an Explorer. Students are awarded with a certificate and a prize from a local business. Photos of our leaders are posted online and in our building to celebrate students.
Communication, Service and Crusader Pride
Croninger’s success is built on a culture of family involvement and community partnerships. The PTA and student-led initiatives like the Croninger Kids Care Council support authentic learning experiences that connect students with local organizations, arts programs and service opportunities.
Croninger Block Party
Croninger’s annual block party is a community event hosted by Croninger’s PTA that brings families, students, teachers and neighbors together for a fun, social gathering. It’s one of the many PTA-organized community events meant to build connections between the school and the surrounding neighborhood. Students can buy a wristband for $10 to play in multiple bounce houses. Families can enjoy food from local food trucks and listen to music from a local DJ. The block party takes place in May every year.
