Frierson is one of Charleston County School District’s (CCSD) rural schools, serving 168 students of diverse backgrounds with a poverty index of 64.6%. We are proud to be District 9’s only Montessori school and the sixth—and newest—Montessori program in CCSD. This school year marks our full transition into a Montessori model.
Currently, we have four Primary Montessori classrooms, three Lower Elementary classrooms, and two Upper Elementary classrooms. Looking ahead, we are excited to add an Adolescent Montessori classroom in the upcoming school year to support our continued growth.
Teachers across our nine Montessori classrooms will continue their professional development in Montessori methodology. Certification training for new staff will be provided through Lander University, while ongoing Montessori-specific training for returning staff will be supported by our Priority resources and CCSD’s continued commitment to excellence.
Student achievement and growth at Edith L. Frierson Montessori are closely and consistently monitored. This year, our academic priorities included: Implementation of EL Education Curriculum Modules 1–3, year two of LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training for all K–5 teachers, and continued focus on math instruction using the Learning Continuum, Bridges Workplaces, and the OGAP (Ongoing Assessment Project) framework.
According to our most recent i-Ready data, students in grades K–6 achieved 120% progress toward their Annual Growth Targets in Reading. Notably, 5th-grade students achieved 206% of their typical growth, while kindergarten reached 131%, and 6th grade achieved 168%. In Math, the median progress toward typical growth was 107%, with 1st and 2nd grades showing the most significant gains—130% and 148%, respectively. These outcomes reflect the dedication of our instructional staff and the strength of our academic supports.
To sustain this progress in Reading and Math, we will continue utilizing evidence-based instructional strategies. Our Literacy and Numeracy Interventionists will provide targeted support for students with the greatest needs. Teachers will participate in weekly 90-minute Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) alongside instructional coaches, the principal, and the assistant principal. These sessions focus on deepening instructional practices, engaging in LETRS training, and aligning reading instruction with research-based best practices.
Phonics instruction will continue through the Heggerty program in Primary Montessori and through UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) and Waseca materials in Primary and Lower Elementary classrooms. All teachers will implement CCSD’s reading units developed by the Office of Curriculum and Instruction. Formative assessment data will be used regularly to guide instruction, with structured data protocols informing next steps for learners at all levels.
In Math, all grade levels will implement the Eureka Core Curriculum, supplemented by a daily 40-minute flex period using i-Ready’s adaptive technology for personalized learning. While Montessori remains our core instructional framework, it is enhanced by these targeted supports to ensure growth in literacy, numeracy, and science.
In support of the whole child, our Guidance Counselor and Parent Educator will continue to focus on students’ social and emotional well-being. They will also collaborate with families to offer education around child development and strategies to nurture the whole child. In partnership with district departments, we will further our use of Restorative Practices to build strong relationships, promote a positive school climate, and create a safe, peaceful learning environment rooted in empathy and connection.
We are deeply proud of the growth and successful implementation of our Montessori program. Our partnerships—with the district, families, the Department of Natural Resources, and the broader community—have ignited a vibrant energy within our school, reflected in our students’ progress.
We extend heartfelt gratitude to our PTA, SIC members (including our SIC Chair, Mr. Ross Anderson), and our community partners—Kiawah Cares, the Kiawah Foundation, Friends of Frierson—and the many families who continue to support and trust in our mission. Together, we remain committed to providing a dynamic and nurturing learning environment for every child.
Warmly,
Latrice Jones-Smalls, Principal
Mr. Ross Anderson, SIC Chair
