Riverbank Elementary School is committed to developing the world-class skills and career characteristics outlined in the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by fostering a safe, nurturing, and academically rigorous learning environment. Our mission is to cultivate lifelong readers, writers, and problem solvers who are prepared to succeed in college, careers, and as contributing members of society.
This year, we proudly launched a Dual Language Immersion Program for kindergarten students. In this program, students receive academic instruction for half of the school day in English and the other half in Spanish. This research-based model is designed to develop bilingual and biliterate learners while supporting strong academic achievement and cognitive growth. Over time, students in this program will gain proficiency in both languages, equipping them with valuable skills for a global society.
Throughout the school year, all students receive rigorous instruction across content areas, grounded in research-based practices. We emphasize critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem solving through real-world, and hands-on learning experiences. Our students engage with technology using district-issued iPads or Chromebooks to research, collaborate, and produce original work, enhancing their digital literacy and global awareness.
The Riverbank community plays a vital role in our school’s success. Our School Improvement Council (SIC), Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), and community partners actively support student achievement and school improvement efforts. Local organizations and businesses contribute by providing school supplies, mentoring, health services, and career exploration opportunities. Programs such as the Midlands Reading Consortium, Healthy Learners, and our weekend food ministry reflect the strength of these partnerships.
In addition to our academic programs, Riverbank Elementary offers a range of opportunities designed to support the development of the whole child. All students may join His Love Club, and fifth-graders may participate in off-campus activities with the School Time Bible Club. Our mentoring program provides opportunities to develop and extend life skills, promotes socialization, provides support, enhances soft skills development, and provides career exploration. Our Beyond Goals soccer program provides structured opportunities for physical activity, fosters social and emotional development, and promotes positive sportsmanship among participants. Students benefit from ongoing academic enrichment and meaningful family engagement opportunities, including our interactive Community Math and Reading Night. Additionally, the Lex 2.5 program provides targeted academic support three days a week after school, ensuring students have access to valuable learning resources outside of regular school hours.
Our faculty is deeply committed to continuous improvement through ongoing professional learning aligned with the South Carolina College and Career Ready Standards. Teachers actively engage in collaborative planning, data-driven instruction, and targeted professional development, including LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling), Shifting the Balance, and STEAM-focused strategies, all aimed at enhancing instructional practices and increasing student engagement.
Our success is a reflection of the dedication of our students, the professionalism of our educators, and the unwavering support of our families and community partners. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower every student at Riverbank Elementary to become a confident, capable, and college- and career-ready learner.
Nicholas Gillcrese, Principal
Katrina Suber, SIC Chairperson
