Throughout the 2022-2023 school year, Concrete Primary’s focus centered on meeting the academic, social, and emotional needs of all learners. As a way of ensuring that all student needs were met, teachers participated in Professional Learning Communities to collaborate weekly. During this collaborative time, they determined essential standards for classroom instruction, developed common formative and summative assessments, analyzed student data, and planned next steps for instruction. Extension activities were planned for those students showing mastery, while intervention strategies were developed for those yet to master these essential standards. Students switched classes twice a week to participate in WIN (What I Need) time instruction for intervention and/or extension activities specific to their individual needs.
Teachers continued to use the South Carolina College and Career Readiness Standards to drive their instruction. A Balanced Literacy model including Guided Reading, were used to teach, provide skill application, and assess student learning. Teachers continued to provide reading, writing, and phonics instruction using the Units of Study in kindergarten through second grade. Differentiated math instruction was provided using a Guided Math framework, along with the use of the Freckle, Dreambox, and Reflex math apps.
The daily incorporation of technology remained an important part of daily instruction at Concrete Primary. This was made possible by each student having their own device. The digital platform, SeeSaw, was used for communication between teachers and parents, while also providing students the ability to complete assignments and store their work in a digital portfolio.
Concrete Primary remained committed to placing value in the fine arts, and was intentional in providing rich experiences for our students in these areas. During art classes, we welcomed an artist in residence to assist students with special clay and painting projects to be permanently displayed in the school. Each grade level held performances to showcase their musical talents for family and friends. Concrete welcomed back Literacy Night in person for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. Families were welcomed to the literacy celebration by Powdersville High’s cheerleaders and mascot as they completed activities with a March Madness basketball theme.
The partnership with our PTSO continued to be an integral part of Concrete Primary. PTSO fundraisers included Spirit Nights at local restaurants as well as the return of the popular community event, the Spring Carnival. Fundraisers from the PTSO helped provide classroom supplies, the installation of a covered shade pavilion, and special events for our students including a pumpkin decorating contest and Polar Express Day.
The faculty, staff, and students continue to be blessed to have a supportive community that works together to develop students academically, socially, and emotionally.
