We had another fantastic year of academic achievements! On the 2023 SC Annual School Report Card, Satchel Ford Elementary earned the highest overall rating of "Excellent!" indicating that "School performance substantially exceeds the criteria to ensure all students meet the Profile of the SC Graduate." The percentage of students who scored “Met” or “Exemplary” on the SC READY ELA was 75.3%, SC READY Math was 69.8%, and SCPASS Science (4th Grade) was 78.5%.
The faculty continued its focus on literacy instruction using the works of Lucy Calkins, the founding director of Columbia University’s Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, and the focus on utilizing the math workshop model. Of the 56 students from Richland One elementary and middle schools who were recognized for receiving a perfect score on the 2023 SCReady assessments, 18 were from Satchel Ford.
One of our 5th-grade students won the District Science Fair. Satchel Ford was the top elementary school in the District for the Superintendent’s Reading Challenge, with the most minutes read. One of our 5th graders was one of the top 10 readers in the challenge.
Satchel Ford special education teacher Janelle Mickens was featured in the news and shown as an example of her success using one of Richland One’s ‘RoboKind’ robots in her classroom. The RoboKind Robots program aims to improve the social-emotional learning of students with disabilities, better preparing them for opportunities within school and in their communities.
First-grade teacher Mrs. Jones has been selected as one of five finalists for the 2024-2025 Richland One Teacher of the Year
Satchel Ford again obtained re-certification this year as an Arts in Basic Curriculum (ABC) School, a designation it has held for the past 19 years. ABC Schools keep arts as an essential component of the basic curriculum, and through certification, they receive grants from the SC Arts Commission and SC Department of Education. As part of our extensive arts program, all students can learn and display dramatic skills through grade-level performances and shine on the stage in chorus, strings, and steel drum groups. This past month, the Satchel Ford Honor Choir, led by music teacher Mr. Day, earned a ‘Superior distinction‘ at the 2024 Carowinds Festival of Music. 52 students (grades 3-5) represented SFES and were evaluated by nationally known adjudicators.
In addition to the grants mentioned, significant donations from the Brave Arts Committee‘s fundraisers enable SFES to provide countless unique experiences for students. In March, Dr. Scandrol and Ms. Barber-Brown organized a visit from a special guest, a National Tour of Hamilton cast member. He shared career insights and even performed a hit song from the musical. On May 23-24, our school’s Arts Fest will feature more than 17 diverse artists who will provide school-wide performances and breakout sessions/hands-on experiences for all classes, including hip hop, shag dancing, drums, rangoli playing, and more.
The Braves Unified Champions Club, under the leadership of Satchel Ford P.E. Coach Chris Payne, had another impactful year. The program provides a unique opportunity for students with and without disabilities to unite through ongoing educational and physical activities. Members volunteer their recess and other time to mentor and interact with students, forming friendships that expand beyond physical barriers. They also host events that include and support children with disabilities, such as Special Olympics Young Athletes playdates, bowling, and disc golf events, and help coordinate school participation in the “Polar Plunge“ fundraiser. For his committed leadership of the Unified Club and for motivating others throughout the state and beyond to have success in their schools, Coach Payne was recognized earlier this year as ‘Champion of the Mission’ by the Special Olympics of S.C.
Our talented Fitness Bowl team earned the highest overall score again and set district records. Satchel Ford’s newly formed pickleball team competed in the first Richland One Elementary pickleball tournament, with the girls finishing in first place and the boys’ team finishing in second place.
In the fall, Mr. Bidwell introduced the SIFMA Foundation‘s Stock Market Game to our 4th and 5th graders. Participating students met with him weekly to learn about stocks and financial education. Out of all the teachers and students from across the state who participated in the SIFMA program, our Satchel Ford Elementary team came first.
This year‘s Boosterthon was an amazing success, thanks to the PTO and all those who donated to support our school! The school‘s financial goal was met and exceeded, and the funds raised are helping provide items such as teacher grants, a new kiln, and an artist in residence to teach pottery class. In addition to financial support, Boosterthon provides an opportunity for students to learn about goal-setting and building character through character awards, daily programs, and the Fun Run.
The Farm at Satchel Ford is an invaluable resource, providing hands-on learning experiences for students in all grades. SFES parent Chris Wormley leads and coordinates outdoor lessons on the life cycles of plants and flowers, food tastings and safety, and planting and harvesting crops. The outdoor classroom has grown to include 12 troughs, 7 large raised beds, a hand washing station, and a pollinator bed. This year, the greenhouse was completely renovated, and the sensory garden expanded.
Dr. Matthew Scandrol, Principal
Elizabeth King, SIC Chair
