Williams Memorial Elementary is helping all our students develop the World-Class Skills and the life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing a safe learning environment that is academically challenging and programs that promote collaboration, critical thinking, and problem solving. Our motto of being “PAWS”- itively the Best provides us with the simple direction needed to help all our students and teachers reach their fullest potential and encourages high expectations for success.
The WMES faculty and staff work tirelessly, learning and implementing teaching strategies, best practices, and interventions that will enhance and move our students academically. It is imperative we implement educational programs and provide curriculum that is in alignment to the State Standards; therefore, we are constantly reviewing existing and implementing new strategies and programs that will move all our students to their desired targets. Such strategies include our STEM Lab, Response to Intervention in reading and math, small group instruction during W.I.N. TIme, Literature Stations, Literature Circles, Hands-on Learning, and using Science Kits. Approaches and models used during instruction include the Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) Program, the Gradual Release Model, the Workshop Model, and Problem-Based Learning. i-Ready Reading and Math Diagnostic Assessments are administered in the fall, winter, and spring to determine focus areas for instruction, and i-Ready Personalized Learning provides students with lessons based on their individual skill level and needs.
At Williams Memorial Elementary School, we strive to create an inclusive school climate and to promote a sense of collaboration and respect for all of our students and members of our faculty and staff. Williams Memorial was recognized nationally as a 2020 Special Olympics Unified Champion School and recognized by ESPN as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School for our efforts to include students with disabilities. As a school, we believe all students should be involved in various extra-curricular programs and activities that will develop the whole child. Programs like choir, sports, STEM, and clubs and organizations help our students understand the importance of staying active and assist in developing social skills and teamwork. Our Guidance Department works in conjunction with our teachers to assist our students in learning how to understand and manage their emotions and to develop respectful behavior and communication skills needed to build a positive classroom and school culture.
At Williams Memorial Elementary, we feel strongly that in order to be successful, the school, our families, and the community should work together for a common goal-to support and to encourage our teachers and children. We also understand that students who have involved parents or guardians are more successful in school. At WMES, we strive to create a parent friendly school and have an "Open Door" Policy for all stakeholders. Our stakeholders take an active role by joining us for Academic Celebrations, monthly SIC Meetings, quarterly Parent-Teacher Conferences, Special Programs, school sponsored events like Meet the Teacher, Open House, Literacy Night, STEM Night, Family Game Night, Movie Night, Parents/Grandparents Lunches, and monthly Character Kids Celebrations.
We are proud of our students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders for sharing in the responsibility of making sure our students are successful. Together, we will continue to make WMES "PAWS"-itively the Best!
Natalie Pandora, School Improvement Council Chair
Ruth Mims, Principal
