Dutch Fork Elementary School - Environmental Science Magnet in Irmo, SC provides a challenging curriculum with an approach to teaching students about the world we live in and how to take care of it. We provide hands-on learning experience for our students to learn through inquiry and exploration. DFES serves approximately 460 students in grades 4K - 5th grade. Dutch Fork Elementary immerses children in learning based on discovery and exploration, collaborative study, scientific research, use of scientific tools and technology, and a strong sense of community. We inquired into being ready to learn and unpacked how self-awareness is continued in our learning. Collectively we inquired about being responsible as a learner and honed in on the importance of responsible decision making. We will continue to build upon these efforts as we embark upon the upcoming school year. Through the lens of environmental scientists, our students understand that every action, no matter how small, has an impact on our community and our world, and, in turn, strive to use their actions to make our community and the world a better place.

A core belief of Dutch Fork Elementary School Academy of Environmental Sciences is that students desire to share and take ownership of their learning and learning experiences. Students are provided opportunities to develop and practice world-class skills throughout all subjects across the school day. Teachers develop meaningful, differentiated curricula and learning experiences to develop students’ areas of need and to strengthen students’ areas of strengths. Students are taught skills to effectively communicate their understanding in both written and oral formats to their classmates, grade levels, and an outside audience of stakeholders through student-led conferences, learning celebrations, and personal passion projects.

Rebecca Dilley, Principal