Edith L. Frierson Elementary Partial Montessori School is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. We do this by providing a safe environment where staff, families and community support children as they explore an integrated, culturally diverse, and innovative curriculum that fosters critical thinking, and collaboration. We believe that through purposeful work that intentionally integrates all academic content in a rigorous manner with experiences that cultivate skills, mindsets, and literacy, our children will be able to learn and grow.
We are located seven minutes from the Angel Oak Tree and have become a perfect option for families choosing to provide the great learning experience of a Montessori education. During the 2018-2019 school year, we were successful in creating two Primary classrooms. For the upcoming school year, we will add a third Primary class and create the first of three Lower Elementary classes serving 1st grade students this first year. Each year we will close one of the traditional grades and add another age group to our Montessori program until we become a full Montessori program, Primary to Adolescent.
We are very proud of the work that has been done in these classrooms. Our Montessori Primary exceeded academic expectations. Next year we bring the Teacher of the Year from Murray LaSaine, and District runner-up. Additionally, our third Montessori teacher comes to us from the Gifted and Talented Department.
Frierson’s focus on critical thinking and collaboration continues to support student achievement. The faculty, staff, and community of Frierson Elementary work hard to collaborate as effective teams. In doing so we have provided many opportunities for students to participate in learning experiences beyond the classroom. Our students present quarterly musical performances, participate in visual arts contests, and field experiences. Our students are involved in school-wide reading initiatives, The Reading Partners, The School Garden, Terrific Kids Program, Grandparents Day, Muffins for Moms, Donuts for Dads and a variety of cultural events representing our diverse world. The 21st Century After-School program, ELF Morning News, The Crock-Pot Ladies-Cooking Club, STEP and Modern Dance Team, Track Team, Science Fair, Wellness Committee, Sewing Club, and Service Learning projects provided great opportunities for continued enrichment. Students in our Upper grade collaborated with our students in the Lower grades in order to provide enriching opportunities for both groups by Buddy-Ready and presenting STEAM Day activities.
With the support of our faculty, staff, administration, parents and the community we continue to grow academically and provide students opportunities for growth and success. Edith L. Frierson is an amazing child-centered environment that nurtures the development of the whole child. As our Montessori program grows, it will only support our overall goal of increasing student achievement.
Dr. Deborah Davis-Cummings, Principal
Ms. Sharaiah Choice, SIC Chair
