Our school is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by continuously maintaining high expectations for student learning and achievement; informing parents of their vital role in the education of children; and by supporting the efforts of teachers as they deliver instruction daily. Positive behaviors are rewarded and learning is made FUN at Andrews Elementary School! Teachers utilize a Literacy Framework, including Interactive Read Aloud, Writer’s Workshop, Word Study, Independent Reading, Guided Reading, and Shared Reading. Teachers have created engaging lessons and active learning centers where students are able to work independently, conference with their teacher as necessary, and learn collaboratively. These routines allow students to take ownership of the learning process.
Specialized instruction takes place for students who are served through ESOL, IEPs, and the Gifted and Talented programs. All students receive challenging instruction with lessons prepared by general education, special education, and GT certified teachers. Specialized instruction in the arts, music, and physical education is also provided by certified and dedicated teachers in these specific areas. Grade level teams have specific blocks of set time so that more exact and precise time would be dedicated to content area instruction. Teachers utilize FOSS science kits prepared by coaches and those housed in our science lab to enhance science lessons. Common Formative Assessments, Cold Reads and well-planned field experiences allow teachers to promote continuous progress for all students. Teachers meet weekly and monthly in Professional Learning Communities to unpack standards, plan lessons, analyze data, and discuss current trends and best practices within the classroom. Instructional Conferences allow teachers and administrators to discuss strategies, best practices, and the academic progress of students at each grade level. Our Student Intervention Team coupled with our Reading Coach and Interventionists in English/Language Arts and Mathematics assist teachers in meeting deficiencies of basic early literacy and mathematics skills of students. A positive school atmosphere is ever present as positive behaviors are reinforced daily.
Quarterly student recognition ceremonies commend students for their academic achievement and social growth through character development and attendance. We make every effort to help parents feel welcome at our school. They are encouraged to take an active role in the education of their children. Parents are active on the SIC and PTA and willingly volunteer at our annual events. Throughout the year parents offer their services in a variety of ways that support our total school program. Donations from the local business community allow us to fund field experiences, purchase attendance incentives, and purchase goods sold in our Panda Store. I proudly serve as principal of one of the finest elementary schools in our district. Together, we worked diligently to raise money for Relay for Life, March of Dimes and Kids Heart Challenge. Thanks to everyone who made donations to these worthy causes during the school year. Our students and their teachers are hard workers and our parents are our best advocates. Our professional and support staffs work diligently to provide a safe, secure, nurturing, and clean learning environment for everyone. Together, we are committed to meet goals established at the district, state, and federal levels, thus providing every child at Andrews Elementary School with their Best Beginning!
Adrienne Watford, AES Principal
Woodrow Nesbit, SIC Chairperson