Chesnee Middle School is helping all students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing educational experiences rich in the four C’s: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. Blended learning increases personalization and differentiation to better meet the needs of a diverse population of students. The STEAM classroom exposes learners to technology, robotics, and the engineering design process. Student centered classrooms develop engage learners in research, rich discussion, and projects requiring all of the four C’s. Grade levels engaged in culminating projects to expand and apply the knowledge acquired in all subject areas. Sixth graders studied migratory birds from Ancient Civilizations and built bird houses based upon characteristics. Seventh graders studied genetic disorders and developed informational presentations. Eighth graders created South Carolina maps depicting major battles of the Civil War and earthquake activity, and used the Pythagorean Theorem to triangulate their locations. A schoolwide catapult building challenge required students to apply the Engineering Design Practices. Fall and Spring College and Career fairs and quarterly Career Café’s catered to student career interests and encouraged exploration of the many options that exist for the future. Learning extends beyond the school walls through a range of community service projects: Characters Alive, Clemson Carolina Food Drive, Pennies for Patients, Kindness Rocks, Pet Pals and Impact Chesnee Middle. Students have a wide variety of opportunities to showcase their talents and extracurricular opportunities meet a range of interests. Students participate in sports, fine arts, Model UN and STEAM competitions, reading and writing contests, and spelling bee. Ten students were recognized as Junior Scholars this year and over 200 (42%) are members of Junior Beta Club. Teachers and staff model lifelong learning and growth mindset through graduate courses, training in best practices and current trends, and Teaching and Learning Teams. Data from standardized tests, classroom assessments and common formative assessments is analyzed to assess students’ progress and differentiate instruction. Instructional coaches and lead teachers model lessons, support differentiation, and facilitate professional development. Chesnee Middle School strives to continuously expand opportunities in order that all students are prepared for success in a challenging global society.
Robert L. Hayes Principal
Daniel Thomas SIC Chair
