Mitchell Math and Science Elementary is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by focusing on critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. Never have we had to focus more on communication, collaboration, and creativity than the challenges of this school year. Our students were provided with the choice of either in-person or virtual instruction. Our teachers learned how to communicate and collaborate with one another and families via Canvas and Zoom. Instruction was delivered utilizing Canvas, Zoom, digital tools, online resources, and Google classroom.
Having a full time certified teacher in the computer lab providing weekly lessons in technology helped our students develop the skills necessary to use devices outside of school if necessary. As a PBIS and Second Steps school there is a schoolwide discipline plan allowing students to develop interpersonal skills that will help them throughout their lives.
We have continued to increase communication with parents and the community by updating our Website and Facebook page on a regular basis. In addition, classroom teachers play a crucial role in parent communication. We hosted Mitchell Family Nights via Zoom this school year to continue to engage our families. We had a game, math, and art night.
We have a wide range of community partnerships who contribute to our focus on health and wellness. Our students participate in yoga. In addition, we work in collaboration with the Green Heart Project to show the importance of not only growing your own vegetables, but how to incorporate fresh fruit and vegetables into a healthy lifestyle.
In order to minimize the impact of COVID-19 disruptions and their impact on student learning, students were offered a variety of learning platforms. In-person and virtual students were offered the same curriculum and instructional opportunities.
Along with the strong community support, the vast number of volunteers, and the many partnerships we feel Mitchell is a true “Gem of the City.”
Amber Sainz, Principal
Margeaux Coyne, SIC Chair