For the 2018-2019 school year, Chester Park School of Inquiry helped all students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by the continued implementation of our hiTech 1:1 technology initiative in grades K-12. Students have access to and use technology on a daily basis. The CPE School of Inquiry (CPESI) also provided a strong academic and social environment. Our culture is fulfilled through our Mission Statement which is “At the School of Inquiry, we set high expectations to enable all children to become inquiring, life-long learners.”
On the journey to becoming a Professional Learning Community, teachers continue to study and implement best practices and as well as participate in other professional development opportunities. Each week Grade Level Data Team Meetings are held with the principal, assistant principal, and literacy coach to analyze data and to discuss the implementation of best practices based on data. With the results from the data analysis and professional development, teachers are able to develop plans and tailor instruction to best meet students’ needs. Some of these best practices are: Project Based Learning; STAR Time- a daily 30-minute intervention time for all students; STAR Tutoring-at least 1 hour per week for students performing below grade level on Reading or Math MAP; Math Seeds and Reading Eggs-computerized programs; My Math curriculum; Math interventionist/coach; a Balanced Literacy program; and Reading interventionist.
In addition to academics, students are developed socially. Each month two STAR Students from each homeroom are selected for demonstrating one of the character words of the month. Students are also recognized each nine weeks for displaying “All-Star Behavior”. During the first semester, students participate in a school-wide food drive for our community. In grades 3-5, students have class representative and officers who represent each class on the CPESI Student Council. The girls in grades 3-5 participated in Girls on the Run as a Chester Park Complex Team.
The PTO and the School Improvement Council (SIC)/ Title I Planning Team meet monthly to discuss Title I activities, special programs, parental involvement, and student achievement. Additional opportunities for family and community involvement include: Project Based Learning Showcase; Family Literacy Night; Family Math Night; Bring a Parent to School; Career Days; Grandparents’ Breakfast; Donuts for Diva; Doughnuts for Dudes; Open House; Parent Conferences; Test Prep workshops; and various parent workshops. A bi-monthly newsletter is sent home and additional information is available via the school website, Peachjar, Facebook, Twitter and automated phone messages through School Messenger.
Robin K. Taylor, Principal Candy Gore, SIC Chair
