Rudolph Gordon Elementary School is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the Graduate by providing meaningful learning experiences in a safe, nurturing, and academically challenging environment. Our goal is to raise the academic performance of each student by utilizing data to make instructional decisions. Students are engaged in rigorous classroom activities that encourage problem solving, utilize research-based learning strategies, enhance teamwork, and incorporate technology. Exposure to multi-cultural opportunities encourages students to develop a global awareness and an appreciation of other cultures. A standards-based curriculum is implemented to ensure a continuum of learning from kindergarten through fifth grade, and authentic assessment techniques are incorporated into the learning environment.
The Fountas and Pinnell balanced literacy model is used for language arts instruction, hands-on math strategies are incorporated into lessons, and writing is emphasized in all subject areas. Other strategies used to enhance academic instruction include Accelerated Reader, IXL Math, science kits, small group guided reading instruction, and weekly hands-on science instruction in a lab setting to support and enrich classroom science lessons. Professional Learning Communities are utilized to increase dialogue among faculty members in order to enhance student learning. Teachers participated in professional learning opportunities to better implement integrated lessons and activities with an emphasis on STEAM education and project based learning.
Our school guidance counselors facilitate instruction in character education, and students are encouraged to participate in monthly community service projects sponsored by our student council. Students raised over $20,000 during the 2017-18 school year for various community projects. “Back Pack Buddies,” a partnership program with a local church, provides food for the weekend to identified students. Terrific Kids, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club, recognizes students quarterly for displaying outstanding character traits.
The PTA works with the faculty and staff to enhance the home-school relationship to positively affect the education of all students. The School Improvement Council, an advisory committee, assists in the preparation of the school’s strategic plan and the annual report to the community.
Our students exceeded state and district averages on SCReady and SCPASS this year. Additionally, our school attained the Safe School Award for the tenth consecutive year. We are very appreciative of the support and commitment from our students, teachers, parents and community members as we work together to increase student achievement.
Our commitment is to continue to engage students in classroom activities that encourage problem solving, utilize cooperative learning, and enhance teamwork as we prepare them to become world class leaders.
Jackie Parker, Principal Tricia Surles, Chairperson
