At Laurel Hill, being primary is our priority. We believe every child is full of wonder, potential, and promise. We are committed to igniting a lifelong love of learning through high academic expectations, social-emotional growth, and honoring the power of play as a foundation for discovery and joy. We inspire children to dream big, think deeply, and grow into kind, confident, and capable individuals.
Laurel Hill Primary has a mission to have high academic expectations and outcomes while prioritizing play. We continue to focus on the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate for all students.
Critical thinking is essential in developing independent learners. Our teachers implemented Eureka Math while incorporating The Ongoing Assessment Project (OGAP) strategies for high quality math instruction. They focused on foundational reading skills using evidence based strategies from the science of reading while using the district’s ELA curriculum to strengthen comprehension skills. Additionally, Adaptive Digital Content (ADC) continues to be utilized to create differentiated learning opportunities for students. They allow our teachers to pre-assess student skills and individualize instruction to meet student needs. Our K-2 teachers continue to implement the University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) Foundations and saw great growth in our learners, particularly in the areas of phonics and phonemic awareness. Using funds provided by the Weighted Student Formula (WSF), Laurel Hill was able to provide targeted instruction to our pupils in poverty, students with disabilities, and ML learners. This targeted instruction, through both reading and math intervention as well as special education services, yielded continued growth in both reading and math across all student populations.
In order to improve the quality of instruction across all grade levels and subject areas, our teams participated in four PLC planning days throughout the school year. These days allowed our teams to dive into student data, reflect on their instructional practice, and plan instruction that focused on SC State Standards and the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate.
Our school continues to maintain a high standard of excellence as noted by our accreditation through the National Association of Educators of Young Children (NAEYC). We have been accredited since 2013 and our accreditation remains in good standing through 2028. This honor is a testament to the high quality instruction and developmentally appropriate practice offered at our school. Additionally, we were recognized as a finalist for the Palmetto’s Finest award, given annually to some of the top schools in the state. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing high quality instruction and outstanding care for our students.
Being a primary school carries a unique yet important role, as we are responsible for providing a foundation of academic and social skills that will set up our students for success for years to come. This year, our staff focused on that responsibility and dedicated themselves to excellence in all areas. As we move forward, we will continue to set the standard for high quality, meaningful instruction in the primary setting.
Jason Sims, Principal
Erin Pollock, SIC Chairperson
