In 1995, it was the subject of much media attention after the Fox River Grove level crossing accident that killed seven students.

[3] Located approximately 38 miles northwest of Chicago, the school serves students from Cary, Fox River Grove, the far east side of Crystal Lake, and areas of Barrington, Trout Valley and Oakwood Hills.

[7][8] In 2010, the Volleyball team was ranked Number 1 in the nation by various sources, but lost the state final game to Lyons Township High School snapping their 57 match win streak and ended their season at 41-1 overall.

In 2012, also in track and field, Josh Freeman became the first person in school history, and in the history of the Fox Valley Conference, to win two individual state championships in the same year when he won the shot put and discus state titles.

A new Fine Arts Center opened in September 2015 to replace the school's original auditorium, which was built in 1965.

The new facility cost $8.5 million and features updated technology, more dressing rooms, rehearsal space, a scenery shop and an enlarged stage.

[11] Every November, all chorus students participate in ¨Fall Follies¨, a concert that includes singing, dancing, and skits.

All eligible students are given hot dogs grilled by the deans and parents as a form of reward for maintaining a good disciplinary and attendance record throughout the school year.

Cary-Grove's mission statement is "For each student, we will inspire a love for learning, empower the pursuit of personal aspirations, and nurture the desire to contribute to the world."

[4] The school also employs five counselors, two social workers, and one psychologist on its student services team.