At A.C. Corcoran Elementary School, our theme for the 2025–2026 school year was "Better Together." This theme served as the foundation for our work and guided our commitment to continuous improvement in teaching, learning, and student achievement. All instructional planning and delivery were aligned to the principles of Data-Driven Instruction (DDI) and the Get Better Faster Framework, with a strong emphasis on academic monitoring to inform small-group instruction and accelerate student outcomes.
Our intentional focus on high-quality instruction strengthened students' collaboration, critical thinking, and communication skills. Early indicators, including preliminary SC READY results, demonstrate positive academic growth and reflect the impact of our instructional efforts.
The primary purpose of our instructional practices was to ensure that every student had access to grade-level standards and multiple opportunities to demonstrate mastery. Through purposeful planning and the consistent use of Know/Show Charts during Professional Learning Community (PLC) meetings, teachers designed rigorous, engaging lessons that increased student participation and ownership of learning. Instruction was tailored to meet students' individual needs through academic monitoring, differentiated instruction, targeted small-group support, and intervention opportunities during WIN (What I Need) time. By fostering a challenging and supportive learning environment, educators helped students reach their full potential while developing a passion for lifelong learning.
Throughout the year, our instructional focus centered on intentional planning and lesson internalization. During PLC meetings, teachers engaged deeply in the DDI process by unpacking standards through Know/Show Charts, analyzing assessments to identify student misconceptions and learning gaps, internalizing lessons to plan for engagement and differentiation, and using data to develop targeted reteaching strategies. This work deepened teachers' understanding of grade-level rigor and strengthened their ability to deliver effective, standards-aligned instruction for all learners.
School leaders actively collaborated with teachers during PLCs to facilitate data analysis, discuss high-impact instructional strategies, and provide actionable feedback. These collaborative conversations empowered teachers to make instructional adjustments that better met the needs of students. The implementation of Eureka Math² and Amplify CKLA further strengthened instructional practices and promoted critical thinking across content areas.
Our commitment to collaboration yielded measurable results. Based on i-Ready data from Fall to Spring, we reduced the percentage of students performing two or more grade levels below expectations while increasing the number of students performing at or above grade level. These gains reflect the collective efforts of teachers, instructional leaders, and support staff working together to improve outcomes for all students.
In literacy, we remained focused on supporting Charleston County School District's goal of ensuring all students read on grade level by fifth grade by 2027. We continued implementing the Amplify CKLA curriculum with fidelity, engaged in ongoing literacy-focused professional development, and expanded teacher participation in Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) training offered through the South Carolina Department of Education. These efforts strengthened instructional practices and enhanced our capacity to support early literacy development.
Beyond academics, teamwork among students and staff fostered a safe, supportive, and nurturing school environment. Our school-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework and Ron Clark House System promoted a strong sense of belonging, positive relationships, and a predictable school climate. Through the proactive teaching and reinforcement of school-wide expectations and standard operating procedures, students developed the social, emotional, and behavioral skills necessary for success both inside and outside the classroom. These efforts contributed to improved behavioral outcomes and supported academic achievement.
At A.C. Corcoran Elementary School, our entire school community remained committed to providing exceptional educational experiences for every student. Our mission continued to be ensuring that all students achieve college, career, and citizenship readiness. Guided by our vision, we strive to educate and empower students both in and beyond the classroom so they graduate prepared for future employment, higher education, and meaningful contributions to society. Through our collective commitment to excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement, we truly embodied what it means to be Better Together.
Chris Holbrook, Ed.S
Principal
