James Island Elementary School is a neighborhood STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) school committed to cultivating lifelong learners equipped with 21st-century skills in critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. During the 2024–2025 academic year, our students received rigorous, standards-based instruction delivered through in-person classes designed to foster academic excellence and intellectual curiosity.
Collaboration is a foundational element of our school culture. Our educators collaborate both within and across grade levels to design and implement interdisciplinary, thematic units and engaging family events. Signature activities this year included our virtual Family Reading Night, music concerts, the Prize Patrol “Get Caught Reading” program, and Family Math and Science Nights—each reinforcing the partnership between school and home while celebrating student achievement.
Our commitment to whole-child development is evident in our focus on health and wellness. Students engage in social-emotional learning (SEL) in the classroom, supplemented by enriching instruction from our guidance department. Additionally, they participated in the Kids Heart Challenge, a wellness initiative coordinated by our physical education department that promotes cardiovascular health and physical activity. Additionally, students had opportunities to participate in school-based basketball, tennis, and wrestling programs, further emphasizing the importance of healthy lifestyles and teamwork.
To promote academic growth, James Island Elementary continues to create an environment that recognizes and celebrates student success. This year, scholars actively participated in the National Beta Club and were honored through various i-Ready celebrations and awards ceremonies for their academic milestones.
As a STEAM-focused school, we place a high value on creativity and innovation in both the arts and core academics. Our understanding of creativity extends beyond the traditional arts to include innovative, cross-curricular learning experiences. In partnership with the Baxter-Patrick Public Library, we introduced Girls Who Code to James Island Elementary, empowering students with foundational skills in coding and problem-solving. Our music department guided students in vocal and instrumental expression through fall and spring concerts, while our art department collaborated with grade-level teams to develop integrated projects that aligned with science and social studies content. Our full-time science lab teacher supports our commitment to our STEAM initiative as all scholars in our building have the opportunity to engage in a constructive science lesson on a weekly basis.
At James Island Elementary, our mission is to empower each student to thrive in a dynamic, interconnected world through innovative instruction, holistic support, and a commitment to excellence.
Jonetta Gregory, Principal
Jamie Meissner, SIC Chair
