Catawba Trail Elementary is helping all students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing meaningful, challenging, and engaging learning experiences. We are committed to preparing every child to be Purpose Driven and Future Ready. Located in the growing Northeast region of Richland County on the outskirts of Elgin, SC, we serve over 650 diverse learners in PreK–5th grade—including 20% multilingual learners and 20% from military-connected families. More than half of our students live with limited resources, which strengthens our resolve to ensure equitable and empowering opportunities for every child.
Now in our 14th year of operation, Catawba Trail continues to flourish through a focused commitment to academic growth, student development, and community partnerships. Our daily work is grounded in the core values of Respect, Engagement, Positivity, Opportunity, Responsibility, and Excellence, which reflect our school’s “REPutation” for building character and confidence in every child.
We foster a supportive environment where students learn to think critically, collaborate effectively, and persevere through challenges. This year’s theme, “Olympic Opportunities: Seizing Every Chance,” inspired students and staff to strive for personal excellence and embrace growth as a continuous journey.
Instructionally, our teachers implement evidence-based practices, including small-group instruction and data-driven decision-making. We utilize MAP Growth, MasteryConnect, and SC READY data to tailor learning experiences. In literacy, instruction is anchored in the Science of Reading and supported by LETRS training. In math, we expanded our Study Stable Math Blitz initiative and continued integrating AVID strategies to enhance academic confidence and organization.
We understand that student achievement is directly tied to adult learning. Our faculty engaged in professional development aligned with district priorities, including LETRS, special education LEA training, supports for multilingual learners, and Conscious Discipline. Our school-based committee, comprised of teachers, staff, and administrators, met monthly to address school climate, behavior, curriculum, and working conditions.
Our School Improvement Council (SIC) played a key role in strengthening home-school connections. SIC launched a family engagement survey to guide communication strategies and identify community resource needs. Additionally, we re-established TRAILMates, a mentoring program that pairs students with staff and community volunteers to support their academic and social success.
Strong community partnerships continue to enhance learning at Catawba Trail. Through our collaboration with the Department of Defense, we secured support for a part-time math coach and staff development focused on the needs of military-connected students. Our PTO raised over $25,000 through the Boosterthon Fun Run, supporting arts programs, technology, and school resources. Family engagement events like CiCi’s Pizza Nights, Skate Nights, and our Back to School Bash fostered school spirit and connection.
In partnership with SIC and community stakeholders, we launched impactful initiatives such as Colts Care, a student-led hurricane relief drive; a letter-writing campaign for Veterans Last Patrol; and Hearts of Honor, which engaged local faith-based groups to support and recognize educators. These initiatives reflect our belief that student success is strengthened when schools, families, and communities work together.
Character development is a cornerstone of our culture. Students are recognized monthly as Colt Character and Leaders of the Month, aligned with our 7 Mindsets curriculum. As a proud Professional Development School (PDS) with the University of South Carolina, we also support the development of future educators through mentorship and real-world experience.
As we close the 2024–2025 school year, we celebrate the collective achievements of our students, families, and staff. Catawba Trail remains committed to cultivating a school community where excellence is expected, opportunities abound, and every child is equipped to lead with confidence, purpose, and integrity.
Principal: Dr. Tia Jones | SIC Chair: Amber Gifford
