Haut Gap Middle School is a constituent magnet consisting of 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade college prep classes and 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade advanced academic magnet classes. In a positive and safe environment, our teachers are challenged to inspire and instill a love of learning. All students experience a unique and personalized learning experience through a varied and rigorous academic program that meets the diverse needs of all learners. Data reflect consistent strides in closing the achievement gap among students from diverse ethnic groups, genders, and socioeconomic levels. Differentiated instruction, in addition to targeted instruction, will remain a paramount goal for staff to elevate the academic success of our students.
The Profile of the South Carolina Graduate has provided a solid learning pathway for all students. HGMS utilizes rigorous standards and steps towards career and college readiness. We aim to instill in all students: integrity, self-direction, a global perspective, perseverance, a strong work ethic, and effective interpersonal skills. HGMS focuses on three domains: World-Class Knowledge, World-Class Skills, and Life and Career Characteristics.
Based on our math data, teachers are utilizing research-based strategies that address specific math deficiencies for tier 2 students. The use of targeted digital content, utilizing the ALEKS digital platform and front-loading standards during our flex period, will assist students who need targeted instruction to master state standards. Teachers will continue to be trained using OGAP strategies for specific math domains. All math students will utilize conceptual based math manipulatives to assist in the understanding of math concepts. Our data also indicates a need to continue a math intervention program for tier 3 students. HGMS has a math coach to assist with math intervention and work with classroom teachers to assist students who are scoring in the lowest percentiles.
Again, our data for ELA/reading indicates a need for research-based strategies that address specific reading and writing deficiencies for tier 2 students. The use of targeted digital content through the No Red Ink and Achieve 3000 digital platforms will assist students who need targeted instruction to master state standards. ELA classroom teachers will continue to collaborate with Social Studies teachers to deliver vocabulary and informational text reading instruction. Writing instruction will include the Step into Writing program to provide consistent writing instruction across all grade levels. The reading interventionist will continue to provide targeted writing instruction to tier 2 students during related arts periods by collaborating with classroom teachers to plan instruction. HGMS has added a certified ELA teacher as a reading interventionist. She will continue to utilize the Language Live instructional program with tier 3 reading students for 40 minutes each day. An ELA Flex period has been added to our master schedule to support acceleration opportunities for all scholars.
Haut Gap Middle School had a solid year in developing our Professional Learning Communities and providing professional development to staff. Weekly instructional PLC meetings will continue to address student academic needs via data analysis. AVID strategies have been implemented school-wide and will continue to be implemented with the support of two AVID positions on staff, who will assist classroom teachers and students. Additionally, we have introduced an AVID EXCEL course to support our ML students.
Our staff is excited about this educational journey, as we look forward to serving our students, parents/guardians, and our growing community in the upcoming school year.
J. Travis Benintendo, Principal
Tracy White, SIC Chair
