McCrorey-Liston School of Technology (MLST) is preparing all students to develop world class skills and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing students with a safe and nurturing environment. MLST’s curriculum, in collaboration with its school and community, foster close partnerships of student success. It is through these types of partnerships that the school’s vision to “soar above all expectations” continues to build a strong sense of community.
During the 2017-2018 school term, MLST students contributed by supporting several service learning projects. Organizations such as the Jr. Beta Club, Young Ladies of Excellence, and Boyz to Men utilized their sense of community service to support projects like Pennies for Patients, The United Way of the Midlands, Project Pay it Forward, and the Kenya Kindness Project .
The Jr. Beta Club received the “Growth Award” and “School of Excellence Award” in honor of the hard work and commitment to service. Two Jr. Beta students were recognized as 2018 state winners at The South Carolina Beta Convention in Myrtle Beach, SC. One student placed Second in Social Studies while the other student placed First in Watercolor Painting.
McCrorey-Liston implemented AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) Elementary into its instructional program. It was through this initiative that the school was able to focus of the four Cs- Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration and Creativity. The students and staff immersed themselves in best practices in instruction, culture, leadership and systems. Because of the deep immersion into these best practices, the students and staff were focused on the "Power of Yet" while characterizing how the influence of having a growth mindset impacts their overall achievement socially, emotionally, and academically. This approach was truly remarkable and had a positive impact on empowering students to be successful. The teachers participated in book studies and PLC’s on student engagement and sharing of best practices. Additionally, students engaged in monthly college and career activities. Some of the activities included college tours and college and career weekly spotlights on the morning news show. To enhance their creativity, students also participated in scheduled Club Days.
The collaboration among the teachers, staff, and administration at MLST to utilize data to drive instructional decisions was evidenced by the systems of support that address the individual needs of the students. Examples of such programs or systems of support include: Response to Intervention, In-school tutoring, inclusion, Gifted and Talented, and Soar Reading and Math Groups.
Additionally, MLST’’s School Improvement Council worked diligently to support students with literacy, math, and health initiatives. The Council sponsored and recognized students monthly through The Healthy Eagles Choice Award Program. The Parent Teacher Association was also instrumental and supportive to MLST. This parent group sponsored multiple school and community events such as the Fall Carnival, Santa’s Shop, and Community Field Day.
Listed below are a few of the highlights from 2017-2018 school year:
- National Beta School of Excellence
- National Beta Growth Award
- Lunch with Grandparents
- Scholar of the Month Program
- Avid and College Day
- College Tours
- Boyz to Men Mentoring Program
- Young Ladies of Excellence Mentoring Program
- Family Literacy Night
Dr. Chandra Bell, Principal
Mrs. Vera Barnes, SIC Chairperson