W.A. Perry Middle School is helping all students develop the World Class Skills and the Life and Career Characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing a safe, supportive, and academically rigorous learning environment that empowers students to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, collaborators, and problem-solvers prepared for success in college, careers, and life. Guided by our belief that "Excellence is the Only Expectation," we are committed to ensuring every student reaches their full potential through engaging instruction, meaningful relationships, and innovative learning experiences.
Our comprehensive academic program integrates literacy, STEM, aerospace, medical sciences, technology, and career exploration to provide meaningful and engaging learning experiences. Literacy remains the foundation of learning across all content areas, and students are encouraged to develop strong reading habits through diverse, high-interest texts and authentic literacy experiences. During the 2025-2026 school year, W.A. Perry celebrated its eighth annual Love of Literacy Month, featuring activities such as African American Read-In Day, Project LIT discussions, guest readers, and schoolwide literacy events designed to foster a love of reading.
Instruction at W.A. Perry is strengthened through ongoing professional learning and collaboration. Teachers participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), AVID training, implementation of Visible Learning, technology integration, Project-Based Learning opportunities, Read to Succeed coursework, and local, state, and national conferences. These experiences support continuous improvement and ensure high-quality instruction for all students.
W.A. Perry focuses on student ownership of learning. Students set goals, monitor progress, reflect on their growth, and develop the skills needed for future success. Through AVID, students engage in focused note-taking, organizational strategies, leadership development, and college and career exploration. Students and families also participate in annual AVID Signing Day celebrations that reinforce a commitment to academic achievement and post-secondary success.
Students receive support beyond the classroom through programs such as Early Bird tutoring, intervention and enrichment blocks, Eagle Recovery, after-school academic assistance, mentoring opportunities, and extracurricular activities. Students participate in NJHS, Beta Club, Student Council, Quiz Bowl, Project LIT, Robotics, Mock Trial, Civil Air Patrol, STEM Club, athletics, mentoring activities, community service projects, and other leadership experiences designed to develop the whole child.
W.A. Perry proudly offers two innovative magnet programs. The BLAST (Building Lasting Aerospace and STEM Trajectories) Aerospace Magnet Program engages students in hands-on Project Lead the Way coursework and authentic aerospace experiences. Through partnerships with the Challenger Learning Center and other industry professionals, students apply STEM concepts through aviation-focused projects and experiential learning opportunities. The Medical Magnet Academy introduces students to healthcare careers through hands-on experiences emphasizing anatomy, medical investigations, emergency care, teamwork, communication, and ethical decision-making. Students develop science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills while exploring future careers in health sciences.
The 2025-2026 school year brought numerous accomplishments for W.A. Perry students and staff. The school was named a Magnet Schools of America National Magnet School of Distinction, Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Connections in Education National School of the Year, and a Common Sense Media School. W.A. Perry was also recognized as one of America's Healthiest Schools and received grants supporting aerospace education, wellness initiatives, and STEM programming. Additional accomplishments included recognition of a Civil Air Patrol National Student of the Year, Richland One Honors Dance members, Visual Arts Show honorees, Junior Scholar, Middle School Scholar, and Emerging Scholar recipients, 26 new National Junior Honor Society members, 28 new Beta Club inductees, a National Board Certified Teacher, Teacher of the Year and Classified Employee of the Year recipients, and a Daisy Award recipient for excellence in school nursing.
W.A. Perry remains dedicated to developing responsible citizens and future leaders through service-learning projects, wellness initiatives, school garden projects, leadership opportunities, and strong community partnerships. These experiences help students build character, citizenship, and a commitment to serving others.
As we celebrate the successes of the 2025-2026 school year, we remain focused on continuous improvement and student achievement. The faculty, staff, families, community partners, School Improvement Council (SIC), and Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) remain united in our commitment to ensuring every student receives the support, opportunities, and high-quality educational experiences needed to thrive. Together, we will continue building a culture of excellence where students are empowered to learn, lead, and achieve.
Dr. Robin Coletrain, Principal
Shameakia Dunwoody-Mender, SIC Chair
