Our school is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the Graduate by developing responsible, reflective, and ethical students who are prepared to compete in a global society. Whitehall teaches students to be independent learners, encourages students to look deeper into their own thinking processes, and to develop behaviors, attitudes and dispositions required for working in partnership with others; critical skills for the future of our students who must be motivated to better understand the world around them and use their knowledge for self-improvement. Whitehall is committed to developing the whole child, providing for the individual needs of every student, and to helping all students develop to their fullest potential. Whitehall has many support systems in place to help students grow their academic skills. Teachers work daily with small groups of students in reading and math. Some students receive reading and math instruction three times a day. The Instructional Facilitator and Reading Coach collaborate with teachers to plan and implement effective instructional practices. Whitehall also has a Before School Program which provides additional support to students in reading and math. We add a 6 week After School Program to help students prepare for the SC-Ready state assessment. In addition to a rigorous curriculum, Whitehall teaches students to respect the talents, skills, and cultural backgrounds of others. Students, teachers, parents, and community members participate in different events which include an Arts Day, Immigration Day in 5th grade, College and Career days for each grade level, Spring Carnival, and the Spring Family Dance. Students in grades 3, 4 and 5 also have the opportunity to participate in after Club Day each Friday. The clubs allow children to explore art and music from different cultures around the world. We also have clubs for our 3rd-5th grade students to learn more about STEM, Basketball fundamentals, drumming, etc. During the school year a variety of student art is displayed throughout the school and the community. The chorus performs during some PTO meetings and during a district-wide chorus event. Students in 5th grade have the opportunity to participate in an after school Coding and Robotics Club as well as have an opportunity to participate on the Step Team. Students have numerous opportunities to participate in service learning activities in which they learn the importance of giving back to the community. Whitehall students collect canned foods for the Good Neighbor Cupboard, and participate in events like the United Way, Relay for Life, and March of Dimes fundraisers. Parent and community support is vital to the academic success of Whitehall students. Whitehall encourages involvement through PTO, School Improvement Council (SIC), Family Nights, Breakfast/ Lunch and Learn, One Book One School, Parent Workshops, and volunteer work. Whitehall also has numerous community and business partnerships that help support and provide for students’ needs. The achievements of students are recognized each semester in grades 3 through 5 and once a year in grades Pre-K through 2nd grade during an Awards Day ceremony. Whitehall is proud of its accomplishments. Achievement results are the product of the sustained efforts and dedication from the entire Whitehall staff.
Jennifer Bufford, Principal and Lynn Walker-Smith, SIC Chairman
