At Centerville Elementary School, we believe in more than preparing students for the next grade level—we believe in helping them discover their passions, develop their strengths, and grow into kind, confident, and capable learners. Rooted in the Lexington County School District One Graduate Profile, our mission is clear - to cultivate a caring community where ALL learners communicate, collaborate, create, and think critically.

Since opening in August 2020, CES has served Gilbert America as a hub of innovation and belonging. Our 128,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art campus features flexible classrooms, collaborative workspaces, STEM labs, a full-service cafeteria, a gym, and welcoming spaces that foster connection and curiosity.

We are guided by three core beliefs:

• All students can learn.
   

• The right conditions for learning are within our control.
   

• Every child holds unique gifts, passions, and dreams that can take them anywhere.
   

Our commitment to developing the Graduate Profile Competencies ensures that students leave CES not only with strong academics, but as well-rounded individuals who are:

• Communicators who listen and share ideas clearly and respectfully,
   

• Creative Thinkers and Problem Solvers who innovate and persevere,
   

• Collaborators who work with others to achieve shared goals,
   

• Resilient learners who embrace feedback and overcome challenges,
   

• Kind citizens who act with empathy and integrity,
   

• Knowledgeable individuals who apply content in real-world ways,
   

• Independent Learners who reflect, set goals, and take initiative,
   

• Future-Ready Literate in digital tools and media, and
   

• Personally and Socially Responsible members of their school and community.
   

These competencies come alive in every corner of our school—not just in classrooms, but in clubs, afterschool programs, and community events. Our dedication to whole-child development extends far beyond regular school hours. At CES, enrichment is an extension of our core values.

Our Learning Clubs offer students in grades 1–5 the chance to explore interests in STEM, literacy, global studies, art, music, performance, fitness, technology, and more. In clubs like Storytime STEM, World Cultures and Kitchens, iPad Mechanics, and Aviator Art, students build skills as creative thinkers, knowledgeable explorers, and collaborators. Our Musical Theatre and Aviator Chorus programs develop confidence and communication, while Archery Club fosters focus, resilience, and personal growth.

In addition to learning clubs, our Run Hard afterschool program promotes personal responsibility, fitness, and team-building. Students set goals, build endurance, and learn to push past challenges—traits we value deeply at CES.

We are also proud to offer the 21st Century afterschool program, which served 100 students last year. This program provides tutoring, enrichment, and snacks in a structured, supportive setting that reinforces all the Graduate Profile competencies, especially those tied to independent learning and social responsibility.

Our CES Archery Team continued to go above and beyond, adding more trophies to our display case. More than a sport, archery teaches students to be focused, disciplined, and resilient. These student-athletes proudly represent our school, demonstrating the same perseverance and responsibility we strive to instill in every Aviator.

As a school that receives Title I funding, we offer strategic support to ensure every child succeeds. Reading and math interventionists provide targeted instruction. A parent liaison supports families with resources and attendance. Through partnerships with local churches and community organizations, we provide food bags, school supplies, mental health referrals, and holiday assistance—meeting students’ needs so they can focus on learning. Family and community engagement are the heart of who we are. Our School Improvement Council (SIC) and Community Partnership Action Team play active roles in shaping priorities and building relationships.

We were especially proud of our recent musical production of The Lion King Jr., which featured 120 student performers and was attended by over 1,000 proud families and community members. This magical performance was a beautiful blend of collaboration, communication, and creative expression, showcasing just how far our students can go when given a stage and the belief that they belong there.

Every child who walks through our doors is known, supported, and inspired. Whether they are writing code, painting a masterpiece, practicing their aim in archery, running the last lap of a Run Hard race, or simply offering a kind word to a classmate, our students are growing into learners and leaders with the tools to thrive.

We say it often, and we mean it with all our hearts - Start here. Go anywhere!

With appreciation,

P. Heath Branham Ed.D.
Principal

Stacey Ashley
School Improvement Council Chair