Ridgeland Elementary School fosters a learning environment that enables all students to develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. Students are afforded the opportunity to gain social and academic skills while building an educational bridge between elementary and middle school; thus preparing students for the world emphasizing innovative educational experiences. It is the goal of every stakeholder to model for the students what success looks and sounds like. The vision of Ridgeland Elementary School is to become a school of excellence that enables all students to reach their maximum potential academically and socially. Recently, Ridgeland Elementary School earned two forms of recognition: Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence - Points of Light Status & National BETA Club - School of Distinction Award.
Ridgeland Elementary School staff members are learners first by actively participating in professional learning opportunities throughout the year to strengthen both the art and science of teaching. With an emphasis on rigorous standards in language arts, math, science and social studies, teachers work collaboratively to align their instruction to the rigor of their daily learning targets. Classroom observations provide opportunities for building leaders to give specific feedback to teachers to strengthen their craft. Grade level teacher teams also infuse world-class skills, such as creativity, innovation, critical thinking and problem solving and technology into their daily lessons. Life and career characteristics, (e.g., integrity, self-direction, perseverance, work ethic, and interpersonal skills) are taught through the social curriculum using a Positive Behavior and Intervention Supports (PBIS) framework.
Classroom teachers are supported by a vast array of academic and behavioral assistance from valued support staff. The Reading Coach, Paraprofessionals, along with School Counselors, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Specialists, Special Education Teachers, Media Specialist, Computer Lab Instructors, Related Arts Teachers and Behaviorist Interventionist work closely with classroom teachers to maximize impact for learners.
Students are celebrated daily, weekly and monthly for their commitment to learning and making appropriate behavioral choices. Student of the Month, Awards Day Ceremony, and the G.R.E.A.T. Girls Program are a few of the many ways that Ridgeland Elementary School students are honored. Many after-school programs provide additional academic support including, Title I After-School Program, Boys and Girls Club, and STEM After-School Program.
Ridgeland Elementary School is fortunate enough to reap the benefits of several community partnerships. Low Country Food Bank - Backpack Buddies Program, The YMCA, The United Way, First Presbyterian Church of Hilton Head, The Bridge Church, McDonald’s in Ridgeland, Wendy's in Ridgeland, Wal-Mart and various other volunteer agencies assist students throughout the year with tutoring, providing books and school supplies.
Parents and guardians are genuinely welcomed and have enjoyed participating in many family-oriented events, such as the annual Thanksgiving Day Luncheon, Grandparents' Day Luncheon, Fall Literacy Extravaganza, Winter Program, and Family Valentines Dance. Parenting sessions are offered in English and Spanish both at the school and in the community.
Ridgeland Elementary School’s Report Card Rating advanced from At-Risk/Unsatisfactory to Average. This is a huge accomplishment for the students and staff members. Several students participated in the Annual Oratory Competition and School-Wide Spelling Bee Competition. Annually, students are officially inducted into the National Junior Beta Club. A tremendous amount of academic and social progress have been achieved by our students. Ridgeland Elementary School is truly where teachers are effectively teaching and students are continuously learning!!
Renata Johnson Green, Principal
