J. K. Gourdin is helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing a safe, orderly, and positive learning environment designed with 21st Century learning in mind.  High academic achievement is communicated to all as we implement our vision, “To empower all students for success.” All students are taught to use strategies from the 4 C’’s to include:  collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking.   We believe that we contribute to producing industrious South Carolina graduates by exposing students to rigorous standards in preparation for career and college readiness.  Our engaging learning environment, affords opportunities for all students to interact individually with digital devices using computers, ipads, Chromebooks, and a SMART board in every classroom.  This year we continued to provide opportunities for all students in Grades 3-5 to take home a Chromebook.   Additionally, all students in K-5 participated in computer assisted instruction in a lab setting for reading and math daily.   Selected students in Grades 3-5 participated in Read 180 and System 44 as a research based innovative reading intervention which challenges students to help develop literacy skills.  An after-school initiative was used to engage students in creative and innovative activities consisting of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics commonly known as STEM which provided a hands on approach for students to experience real world opportunities designed with 21st Century learning skills in mind.  We provided opportunities for teachers to participate in professional training based on research and best practices.  Professional Learning Communities (PLC), conferences, and workshops, promote collaboration, planning, and instruction. Our school continues to celebrate students for demonstrating positive attitudes and respectful behavior.  We hosted Family Math, Science, and Reading Nights.  Activities such as Oratorical Contest, Spelling Bee, holiday programs, and pageants were used to promote and develop academic and social skills. We thank the PTA, Dad’s Club, School Improvement Council (SIC), parents, volunteers, and the community for playing an integral part in the educational program.  We solicit your continued support in improving student growth, achievement and creating an environment that fosters a working partnership between home and school.

Lorene Bradley, Principal

Louis Mayrant, Chair, School Improvement Council