The faculty and administration of Larne Elementary School is committed to helping all students develop the world-class skills, life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. Our focus on academic success is driven by being intentional with planning, instruction, and assessment. Our staff is dedicated to providing quality learning experiences for students in a 21st-century learning environment. Having 55 percent of our third-grade students meeting and exceeding expectations in ELA and Math provides challenges for us in subsequent grades to maintain upward growth in academic progress. We will continue to focus on providing personalized, quality instruction to ensure that each child is supported academically to reach his/her full potential.
We provide various opportunities for students to be challenged and experience success by implementing rigorous math and reading standards. Intentional instruction involves making data-driven decisions to impact student growth. Students in grades 3-5 have the opportunity to participate in Gifted and Talented learning opportunities. Occasions for success come in abundance as effective and innovative research-based interventions, with the support of three certified teachers and one teacher assistant, are in place to meet the needs of our diverse student population.
Our teachers offer flexible grouping in mathematics and reading to meet students’ instructional levels. Core curriculum teachers plan with fine arts teachers to integrate lessons on a regular basis. Vertical planning allows consistent practice within our school and the knowledge of individual student learning gaps. Students are taught to express their ideas and viewpoints while working collaboratively. Creative expression is fostered in guided inquiry experiences where all students approach new topics through STEAM learning experiences, projects and presentations.
Students learn through a variety of lab experiences, connecting to the outside world. Utilizing a problem-solving method, students approach problems from different angles to discover what they believe and understand why. Student portfolios hold samples of student growth and accomplishment and provide a place for visual goal setting and reflection. Intentional assessments allow us to identify student strength and need areas. Portfolios, rubrics, and formative assessments help us to meet this goal.
We utilize one-to-one technology from kindergarten to fifth grade for differentiated learning experiences. Our innovation/technology coach helps to plan and co-teach lessons for all students.
Activities such as Student Council, WLAR News Crew, and Larne Ambassadors allow students to collaborate and use media and technology to communicate information and ideas. Students will be introduced to and modeled behavioral expectations through Positive Behavior Intervention and Support practices. Our goal is to reduce behavioral incidents that cause disruption to student learning opportunities. We are in training this year to become a Leader-In-Me school.
Our initiative to stress the importance of reading and promote reading outside of the school involves the community in various ways. Parents are involved in Literacy Night, parent educational nights, and guest reader opportunities throughout the year. Financially, local business owners and the parent community provide ongoing support in establishing and enhancing classroom libraries.
Vic Stine, Principal
Mary Kate Pursley, Chair
