Northwest Elementary School is enabling all students to develop world class skills, and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing a quality education to all students with an emphasis on individual student growth and high expectations for each learner. Our students are provided with a rigorous and challenging curriculum and are given opportunities to think independently and work cooperatively with a group. Collaboration and teamwork are promoted in our project-based learning assignments. Northwest students are learning to be problem solvers and learning how to analyze data. Data notebooks are kept so that the students have a clearer understanding of their knowledge and skills. Technology is integrated in all areas of the curriculum and technology equipment such as IPADS and laptops, have been purchased for classroom use. All classrooms in grades 2-5 are equipped with a class set of laptops and students have researched and created projects which were presented to their classmates.Many educational websites are used in different grade levels and STAR assessments are completed online. Northwest School received a Health and Wellness grant this year which was used to provide equipment to be utilized by our students so they will realize the importance of exercise and balanced diet, leading to a healthy lifestyle.  Our faculty and staff focus on providing a safe and positive learning environment and promote high academic standards and expectations for all students. Individual learning needs are determined through the administration of a wide variety of assessments, which offer the teacher insight and data is used when developing the learning goals for each individual student. We address the needs of the learner and offer reading interventions for individuals and small groups. Our faculty collaborates to determine how to best meet the needs of their students and data is analyzed on a regular basis to make adjustments to the curriculum as needed. RTI meetings are scheduled on a regular basis in order for parents and educators to collaborate and discuss how to provide the best education to their student. Our students are involved in community projects such as Jump Rope for Heart, Cans for Kids and Meals on Wheels. Our students are learning the importance of kindness, compassion, respect and dependability though the instruction of Character Education. Students are recognized for their achievements throughout the year in the Student Recognition Programs, school newsletters, school website and news media. The parents of Northwest Bobcats are supportive and encourage all our students to excel. Our parent and community volunteers work closely with our school and serve as models as we teach perseverance and work ethics to our students. Our PTO works to provide quality educational field trips to all students which enhances the learning process. Northwest Elementary School will continue to provide college and career readiness through the implementation of rigorous standards and promote the goals of integrity, strong work ethic and interpersonal skills in order for our students to become productive citizens in a global environment. Kathy Phillips, Principal, Kim Gardner Chairperson/School Improvement Council