Harbison West Elementary School Gifted and Talent Development Magnet is a title 1 school determined to provide the best educational experience for all students!
In 2023, Harbison West became the fortunate recipient of the Project Aspire MSAP Grant focused on implementing the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM). The philosophy of SEM emphasizes applying gifted pedagogy in all classrooms, while provoking student learning through their interest and areas of passion. We will use student’s interest and areas of passion to develop their natural gifts and talents. To epitomize this ambitious journey, we have affectionately coined the theme “Discover the Hero in You”! Our theme serves as a daily call to action for students to pursue their personal strengths and passions in an engaging and challenging educational environment.
Harbison West is committed to creating an educational environment that will ensure our student's success in school and in life. Our students practice ethical and collaborative citizenship by learning and following our school-wide expectations, Be a H.E.R.O. We ask students to focus on being Hard-working, Empathic, Respectful, and Open-minded. These school-wide expectations are taught and reinforced on a daily basis. In the classroom, we teach students how to treat one another through our classroom guidance lessons on kindness, friendship, and conflict. Also, teachers and students joined together to participate in Project Au-Some. This program was designed to build empathy and social skills between a fifth-grade classroom and preschool children with special needs. This year classes across the school focused on researching various disabilities and how to become more inclusive.
Harbison West strives to excel academically. We have a highly talented staff of teachers who are totally dedicated to student success. At Harbison West Elementary, we have established a rigorous and relevant curriculum that ensures our students exceed established standards and practice critical thinking skills. Our teachers possess a variety of experiences and expertise; including Gifted and Talented Endorsements, Special Education Certifications, and National Board Certifications. Teachers continue to implement innovative teaching methods and best practices for instruction with the aid of a strong instructional support team. The team includes a Reading Coach, Math Coach, and Digital Integration Specialist, as well as many others. Because of this support system, Harbison West Elementary continues to grow our students in all academic areas.
In closing, we take pride in Harbison West Elementary School. We believe each day is a new opportunity to “Discover the Hero in You” and make a positive impact in our school and community. We are the change that we look forward to.
Keep Being Great,
Thomas Turner, Ed.D
