Independence Elementary School is committed to the district’s goal of preparing the modern learner as well as our school’s mission: Independence Elementary believes that nothing is more important than children. We are continually committed to the social, emotional, and academic development of every child. Our school is a safe, challenging, caring, and supportive environment where teachers, parents, students, and community members work together to ensure all Independence students have a solid foundation for life. We strive to make the learning experiences at Independence fun and engaging while holding everyone accountable for reaching his or her highest potential. During the 2020-2021 school year our students were limited in the experiences we were able to offer due to Covid-19 restrictions. However, we were able to provide many virtual opportunities that highlighted student leadership. To support student achievement, we added Interventionists and district internal substitute teachers to our staff. Additionally, we provided PD opportunities, such as Leader In Me and LLI Training.
To support our parents and families, we hosted several events through our Lighthouse Family Engagement team. Events like our monthly Seven Habits ceremonies were also valuable opportunities for families to feel a part of the school community. Our volunteers and partnerships have grown significantly. Several local churches such as Catawba Baptist, First Baptist, Friendship Methodist and Harvest Ministries have served as sponsors and provide various donations to our school.
We believe in working with our district colleagues to support teaching and learning. Rock Hill High School students have volunteered in a variety of capacities to mentor and tutor students. Northwestern High School Football Players read to classes through the year. We also partner with Winthrop University and host many aspiring teachers in our classrooms. We have many teacher leaders who were selected to support the district’s PLC Conference by leading various breakout sessions.
Students are offered many opportunities to hone their leadership skills. They are provided with clubs and organizations to participate in throughout the year. These clubs include Girls and Pearls, Basketball and Bowties, The Junior Lighthouse Team, Patriots Council, Beta Club, Girls on the Run, Let Me Run, Chess Club, Recycling Club and Safety Patrol. Additionally, students prepared for competitive teams such as Battle of the Books, Vocabulary Bowl, and the Science Bowl, however, due to the Covid- 19 school closure, they were unable to participate this year. One fifth grade student and one fourth grade student represented our school and district in the Scripp’s Regional Spelling Bee.
We are excited about the 2021-2022 school year as we continue our Leader in Me journey. We will work with stakeholders to build on the successes that we have experienced this year.
Marion Funderburk, SIC Chairperson
Kimberly Odom, Principal
