Brockman Elementary School is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by fulfilling its mission as a full Montessori school of choice. The tenet of a Montessori education is that a child learns best in an enriched/supportive environment, where exploration, discovery, collaboration and creative thinking are the norm, where integrity, self-direction, a global perspective and interpersonal skills are emphasized, all under the guidance of a trained, caring teacher.
The school’s goal is to help students reach their potential in all areas of life. Independence, self-motivation, creativity, leadership and cooperation are foundational. The curriculum and environment empower children, ignite their creativity and support them in building a sense of self. Learning is personal, enjoyable and self-fulfilling. The development of social skills, scaffolding for emotional health, a focus on health, all in support of academic achievement, are evident. In 2016, the school received national recognition by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, as a national Gold Awardee, the first in the state of S.C. as well as one of only fourteen nationally. Also, in 2016, Brockman was also once again recognized as a “Breathe Better School” and nationally recognized as a “Let’s Move/Active Schools” recipient.
In 2017, Brockman continued its tradition of academic excellence by being chosen to receive the U.S. Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon Award. Brockman staff are highly qualified and all classroom teachers and some assistants are Montessori endorsed. Teachers and staff work diligently to analyze data, to determine and respond to student needs through the school’s PLC/RtI process.
Brockman’s arts program, wellness initiatives, and service projects support the whole child. Over three-fourths of Brockman’s students participate in after-school activities. After-school fine arts programming (funded through Fine Arts Boosters) provides opportunities for students to expand their talents. An after school running club promotes physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. Students receive additional support in the school’s BEARS Aftercare program, including individual/small group tutoring, science, technology, art, recycling, and cooking. This year, Brockman’s School Improvement Council and PTO worked together to support teacher professional development and continue with playground updates.
Marian Crum-Mack, Ph.D., Interim Principal
Kirby Speas, SIC President
