Sullivan’s Island Elementary: Learning by the Sea
Celebrating 2024–2025 & Looking Ahead

At Sullivan’s Island Elementary, students are growing into curious, capable learners and responsible stewards of the world. With our school-wide theme of Coastal Environment Studies, learning comes alive just steps from the Atlantic Ocean. Students explore real-world science, build literacy across subjects, and engage deeply through hands-on, inquiry-based experiences.

During the 2024–2025 school year, our staff, students, families, and community partners collaborated to support academic growth and student well-being. Students made meaningful progress in reading and math, supported by strong instruction, inclusive classrooms, and targeted use of i-Ready data.

This year marks an exciting shift in our instructional model: we're using science literacy as a driver to strengthen understanding across all subjects. Students visit the science lab weekly and engage in the 3-Dimensional Science Model—Science & Engineering Practices, Cross-Cutting Concepts, and Core Concepts. With help from classroom teachers and community partners, they learn in our school garden, nature trail, and even along the beach. We’re thrilled to add four new “Think Tank” aquariums this year, serving as anchor experiences to inspire scientific curiosity and environmental learning.

Our focus on engagement and inclusion allows students to think like scientists—grappling with ideas, asking questions, making mistakes, and talking through their thinking. By blending strong science instruction with rich literacy content, we’re helping students become better readers, writers, and thinkers.

Enrichment also remains a key part of our school environment. Special area classes include Spanish, STEAM, art, music, and physical education. We also offer popular morning clubs—such as coding, Spanish, art, library, chorus, and running—giving students voice, choice, and opportunities to shine.  

Thanks to the passion and partnership of our staff, families, and supporters, the 2023–2024 year was one of joyful growth and development. We’re excited to keep that momentum going in 2025–2026, with creativity, curiosity, and connection leading the way.

Susan R. King, Principal

Katherine Ware, School Improvement Chairperson