Our goal at Latta Elementary School is to help all students develop world class knowledge, world class skills, and life and career characteristics based on the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate, an effort to prepare all children to be college and career ready. Latta Elementary School provides the foundation to ensure that this goal is realized. Based on data from the 2024-25 school year, Latta Elementary School received an Average rating on the SC School Report Card which was down from the previous year. With additional staff development and curriculum modifications, we plan to increase student scores on SCREADY.
The Montessori approach to learning is available to students to extend their abilities to think critically and problem solve. This multi-age learning approach is operational for all 4K and 5K students, and 14 Lower Elementary Montessori classes (Grades 1-3). This approach provides for complete student differentiation through individualized learning settings. Since subjects are fully integrated, content learning is layered, allowing for stronger and more meaningful content coverage. In addition, we have five fourth grade classes and five fifth grade classes where students are presented with a traditional curriculum model.
Every classroom in our facility provides for both an indoor and outdoor learning space. Learning subject area content through the environment of classroom gardens has become a reality, and Latta Elementary School currently has 35 classroom gardens. In addition, the outdoor Nature Play Park provides a positive, natural play environment that gives children the opportunity to exercise their brains and bodies. The district has also created the Viking Greenway Trail on the Latta Elementary School property, which is a 1.5 mile walking/nature trail accessible to all students and community members. An observation deck overlooking a natural pond and a Labyrinth enhance the instructional arena.
At Latta Elementary, the ELA and Math curriculum are both based on the South Carolina College and Career State Standards and are now paced and measured in Grades 1 through 5 by benchmark assessments. Teachers of Grades 4 and 5 continue to use enVision by Savvas as the thinking approach to mathematics. Reading instruction is guided by a state supported Reading Coach where both learning to read and reading to learn strategies are supported and implemented. The Reading Coach and Math Coach support teachers and the instructional process at Latta Elementary School through guided staff development and mentoring. Tier 1 Reading and Math instruction have been a priority this year to ensure every student progresses towards meeting grade level standards. Technology is available in our lab, all classrooms, and library with the media center serving as the research and instructional support hub. Chromebooks are provided to all students to assist and enhance instruction in the classroom and at home.
One goal for this school year was to provide opportunities to increase family engagement by visiting the school to observe in classrooms and participating in PTO and parent meetings. Open House, musical and choral programs, Fall Festival, Art Show, Bridging Ceremonies, Book Fairs, Parade of Nations, Dr. Seuss Parade, LES Awards Ceremonies, Black History Wax Museum, and the Career Fair are some of the events and activities held this year where parents had the opportunity to attend.
Latta Elementary School continues to strive to fulfill its mission of preparing children for the world of the future. In an effort to produce world class citizens, Latta Elementary began implementation of the Leader in Me program and will move towards full implementation in the next few years. Learning opportunities provided for our children in the context of real life will promote a community of lifelong learners and ensure a positive future for our children and our community.
