At Pelion Middle School, we’re dedicated to nurturing well-rounded students who embody the Lexington One Graduate Profile. We accomplish this by providing a learning environment that emphasizes research-based instructional best practices, a comprehensive support system, and a rich array of experiences designed to prepare every student for success in school and beyond.
We're committed to fostering knowledgeable students. Our continuum of support for qualifying students in English language arts and math ensures their needs are met within the general education setting, promoting rigorous academic content application. This year, we observed significant academic growth: Pelion Middle students showed an 11.8% increase in students meeting typical growth. In math, our students showed a 6.9% increase in students meeting typical growth on i-Ready Math.
To further cultivate independent learners, creative thinkers and problem solvers, we implemented a weekly 30-minute Structured Learning Time. This dedicated period directly addresses the Lexington One Graduate Profile competencies, allowing students to develop crucial skills for future success by retesting and receiving targeted support. Our school also focused on developing Professional Learning Communities. Through PLCs, our teachers work together regularly to analyze student data, share effective teaching strategies and develop targeted interventions, ensuring a consistent and high-quality educational experience.
Additionally, we offered a targeted after-school program at no cost to families that focus on individual student academic needs. This program proactively supports students at risk of not advancing on time with their peers, providing crucial intervention and reinforcement in key subject areas. We further supported students by offering math tutoring on Tuesdays and Thursdays, free of charge, where students received personalized support from a certified math teacher. These initiatives encourage resilient learners who persevere through challenges.
PMS provides students with a variety of experiences beyond the classroom. All grade levels participated in field studies this school year: sixth graders explored the Augusta Canal, learning about history and environmental impact; seventh graders visited Roper Mountain to explore physical and chemical changes in matter; eighth graders visited Historic Camden and the Revolutionary War Visitor Center, as well as the South Carolina State Museum to delve into South Carolina history. They also explored career and technology education courses at Pelion High School and the Lexington Technology Center. Select eighth graders attended the Midlands Eighth Grade Industry Showcase to learn about potential career paths. Our FFA members visited the State House to learn about current laws impacting agriculture, and our orchestra students had the opportunity to see the USC Symphony Orchestra.
This year, all students again had the opportunity to participate in staff-sponsored clubs during the school day, meeting monthly. This allowed students to explore interests and form positive relationships with staff and peers around common interests, fostering kindness and collaboration.
We’re incredibly proud of our students and faculty’s numerous accomplishments this year. Our school counseling department is a Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP). This distinction reflects their successful implementation of the ASCA National Model framework, showing evidence of direct and indirect services to students, program planning and improved student outcomes in developing personally and socially responsible students.
Our students demonstrated success outside of the classroom as well. PMS’s archery team placed first in state in the International Bowhunting Organization 3D Challenge competition. In the performing arts, 18 students were selected for District Honors Orchestra, two for Region Orchestra and three for Tri-DAC. Our eighth-grade orchestra received an “Excellent” rating at the SCMEA Concert Performance Assessment, with a “Superior” rating in sight reading. Four students were selected for District Honors Band, two for Region Band and one as an alternate for All-State. Four band students scored “Superior”; eight scored “Excellent” at Solo and Ensemble. Additionally, one student was selected for District Honors Chorus. Our visual arts students also garnered significant recognition: 33 students were featured at the South Carolina State Fair Student Art Exhibition, with four students winning specific awards. Four PMS Art students were selected as ArtFields Jr. 2025 Competition Artists, and our Visual Arts Department participated in the annual Peanut Party Art Exhibition. Two students were also selected to participate in the Governor’s School Visual Arts Summer Program, with one student’s artwork selected for display at the prestigious 2024 ArtFields Festival. These accomplishments highlight student talent and the development of creative thinkers.
Our middle school athletes contributed to Pelion High School’s successes, with six middle school athletes on the PHS girls cross-country team that won their 18th consecutive region title, and two middle school boys on the PHS boys cross-country team that won their 7th consecutive region title. Our girls basketball team finished 4th in their conference division, earning a play-off spot, and our middle school boys soccer team finished undefeated against other middle school teams with 9 wins, 2 ties and 0 losses. These team efforts exemplify collaboration and resilience.
Finally, we celebrate our faculty’s dedication, with two teachers achieving their National Board Certification this year, demonstrating their commitment to being knowledgeable and independent learners. We are incredibly proud of all our faculty and students and their accomplishments this year. The unwavering support of our families and community members has been key to these successes.
Jessica Keisler, Principal
Amanda Bass, SIC Chair
