C.E. Williams Middle School (CEW) North Campus (6th grade) and South Campus (7th and 8th grades) is helping all students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing high-quality instruction, academic support, and socio-emotional learning.

CEW accomplishes this by using interdisciplinary teams and professional learning communities (PLCs) to support learning and build community while being developmentally responsive to the needs of middle-level adolescents. Instruction focused on meeting the South Carolina state standards while exposing students to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) and foreign language opportunities through the various core and exploratory classes. 

In addition to classroom instruction to have all students reading at or above grade level, we used adaptive software to individualize skill development. Benchmark assessments were administered each quarter to determine strengths and areas for improvement based on state standards. We also used MAP assessments to identify trends and patterns in student skills. Students who needed additional assistance were provided support through reading intervention class.

Regarding socio-emotional learning, teachers delivered weekly lessons on organization, peer interactions, communication, and cooperation. School counselors reinforced those traits through classroom guidance lessons and small group instruction.

Using our PBIS model, we implemented positive reinforcements for student academic performance and behavior. School-wide events, field trips, performing arts concerts, socials, and recognition programs were regularly scheduled to encourage student engagement. In addition to supporting our students, we conducted parent workshops and provided resources to assist parents and guardians. CEW also offered multiple opportunities for extracurricular activities to ignite further and cultivates student interests. 

At CEW, we aim to be socially equitable and developmentally responsive to our middle-level adolescents and focus on academic achievement. We use data to inform our practices to provide our students with the skills and knowledge needed for high school, college, and careers in a global economy. 

Maite Porter, Principal, North Campus

Kevin Smith, Principal, South Campus

Lisa Sessoms, SIC Chair