The school offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, athletics, and fine arts, to support student development and prepare them for post-secondary opportunities.

This switch has been made due to Carterville's rapid increase in enrollment, along with their football domination within the B.D.C.

Beginning in 1995, Carterville has reached the Illinois High School Association football playoffs in 22 out of the last 24 seasons.

In softball, Carterville is known as a regional powerhouse having won multiple conference titles in the past decade.

Baseball is also known for its winning tradition having been conference and regional champs several times, including consecutive sectional berths in 2007 and 2008.

In 2013, the Lions reached the regional championship but were ultimately defeated by the Murphysboro Red Devils, ending their season.

The Lions had big wins earlier in the season, defeating Anna-Jonesboro, and Murphysboro in extra innings.

Comprising approximately 75-90 musicians, the Marching Lions entertain during football games at the halftime show.

The Marching Lions have taken several trips to perform on the national stage including Washington D.C; Memphis, Tennessee; Chicago, Illinois; and Orlando, FL.