At National Blue Ribbon Award-winning A.J. Whittenberg Elementary School of Engineering (AJW), all students are developing the World Class Skills of The Profile of a South Carolina Graduate through a culture of respect and highest achievement utilizing uniquely aligned engineering principles that best prepares a diverse group of learners to succeed. The school is named for civil rights activist, Abraham Jonah Whittenberg, who, along with others, became a catalyst that led to the integration of Greenville County Public Schools. AJW is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by using a unique engineering-focused curriculum that provides hands-on learning opportunities, exploration, inquiry-based instruction, as well as a safe and nurturing learning environment.
AJW is an elementary school in South Carolina that offers an engineering-focused curriculum for all students. Beginning in pre-kindergarten, students learn the Engineering Process and apply this to a problem-based curriculum. The school leverages the many international corporations with engineering expertise in the Upstate to bring real-world engineers into the classrooms on a regular basis. These business partnerships offer a wealth of benefits to AJW students including expert instruction, field trips, mentoring, career path development and other support that brings learning to life throughout the school. Special programs such as Lego Robotics, Coder Club, Engineering “eWeeks”, Lunch n’ Learns and STEAM-focused festivals enrich learning for students of all ages.
Since its opening in the fall of 2010, the school has consistently achieved high results and rankings at both state and federal levels. One reason for this success is the effective use of technology to empower learning throughout the school. Younger students have sets of iPads, laptops and desktop computer in every classroom. They also access STEM and computer labs on a regular basis. Beginning in second grade, every student receives one-for-one technology which is used for homework and throughout the school day. Digital microscopes and other purpose-specific tools add rigor and engagement in STEAM labs and classrooms.
Team work and social skills are major components of the AJW approach to learning. Students are often in mixed ability teams, which change regularly. Eye contact, public speaking, good manners and effective communication skills are taught and encouraged. The school has a strong culture of success and a rigorous classroom pace. A variety of interventions are available to support struggling students and to challenge top performers. These include before and after school as well as summer tutoring, clubs and programs.
AJW Elementary is co-located with Greenville’s Salvation Army Corps Ray & Joan Kroc Community Center. This enables AJW students to receive free instruction in tennis, golf and swimming as well as many other healthy lifestyle activities as an extension of their physical education. A CATCH school, AJW is certified as a Healthy Living School by LiveWell Greenville.
A. J. Whittenberg Elementary School of Engineering believes in a student-centered approach to learning that addresses the whole child and works with parents and the community to develop the academic, social and problem-solving skills of each child to their full potential. AJW students are equipped with all of the skills necessary to meet the demands of the 21st Century workplace and not only succeed, but lead the way to a brighter future. Engineering Makes a World of Difference!
Dr. Susan L. Stevens, Principal
Demond Criss, SIC Chair
