St. John's Elementary School is a Title I school that works collaboratively with parents and the community to promote excellence in academics, athletics, attendance, attitude, and the arts. Using project-based learning, technology, and additional support in reading, math, and writing, our school is helping all students develop the world-class skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. We are committed to our district's mission: "Excellence in teaching and learning for all."
Our school has continued to sponsor community activities such as an annual Christmas canned food drive to support local ministries, a Toy Drive to support the City of Darlington's Fire Department, a food drive for our local humane society, a virtual Open House, Red Ribbon Week, American Education Week, May Day, and choral concerts.
Honor Roll students were recognized quarterly, along with students showing success in all subject areas and students showing great character. Other student recognitions included the Sis Howard Award for exemplary character and school citizenship, The Jean B. Taylor Reading Award for earning the highest ELA MAP Score, and the STAND Award for Students Taking Actions, Not Drugs. Students have had the opportunity to participate in National Junior Beta Club, Student Council, Student Marshals, and Flag Corp Team. We have continued with after-school programs for extracurricular and academic purposes.
We offer a Reading Coach and Coordinating Teacher who provide staff with weekly standards-based PLCs. The staff also participates in district-led professional development sessions that strengthen knowledge and instruction of standards.
A full-time Reading Recovery teacher and a full-time Math Recovery teacher were added to our staff during the 2021-22 school year. Students continue to benefit from a Reading Interventionist for Grades 3-5. There is an Instructional Technology Lab for all students in grades kindergarten through five who are taught keyboarding, coding, and project-based learning. As with all students in our district, our school is one-to-one with iPads for every student for use on campus and at home.
The Association of Parents and Teachers sponsored a variety of fundraising activities. The School Improvement Council and numerous business partners worked collaboratively to improve the school. Donations from local businesses, churches, and individual donors included water bottles for all students, books, and "survival kits" for testing days.
We look forward to strengthening our ties with the community, including adding parent and community volunteers to our school.
Kathryn H. Atkinson, Principal
