In January 2001, Hilton Head Hilton Head Island Elementary School was one of the first schools in the United States to be authorized as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP).
In accordance with the IB standard, the school was reauthorized in 2009, 2014, 2019, and 2024. During the 2024 PYP evaluation visit, the school received multiple commendations for the wonderful opportunities provided to students. We are fortunate the IB curriculum is articulated on our campus from the elementary school through the middle and high school with the Primary Years Program (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP).
Students are challenged by a highly trained and dedicated faculty with a stringent curriculum. They benefit from active parents, a strong supportive community and a leadership team who believe that all students can learn. High expectations are the standard. The curriculum and instructional practices are differentiated to allow for rigorous learning experiences for all students, as well as to support students who may need remediation.
Examples of increased academic offerings:
- Dual-Language Immersion classes in Spanish and Chinese
- Second language learning for all students
- Co-teaching model in Grade 5
- Push-in ML support
- Push-in SPED support
- STEAM lab
- PLTW lab
- After school clubs
- Gifted and Talented Artistic and Academic opportunities
- Positive Behavior Intervention Support system
- Character Education Program aligned with the PYP/IB framework
- Intervention and enrichment support
- A variety of related arts offerings
- Inclusionary practices in the least restrictive environment
Our school is helping all students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by focusing on the skills needed to be successful in today's world. Students are exposed to an inquiry-based curriculum and use critical thinking and problem-solving skills through collaborative activities that foster teamwork. Oral and written communication skills are showcased through various venues such as media and the use of the latest technology. Lastly, students are provided with learning experiences that will strengthen their study skills and give them tools for their toolbox so that students can be most successful.
Together, with the support of the school administration, parents, teaching staff and community leaders, HHIE will continue to work to enhance the learning environment and opportunities for all students. The staff at HHIES recognizes the need to support any deficiencies in academics as well as understands the need to meet the social and emotional needs of students. To ensure that all students are engaged in learning experiences that promote a love for learning and a thirst for knowledge is the ultimate goal.
Sincerely,
Michelle Brockway
Principal
