Grove Elementary is helping all students develop world class skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by providing the highest quality instruction and promoting programs that assist all students in the fulfillment of individual potential.
In an effort to provide a positive, creative, and student-centered learning culture, our teachers continue to develop their skills in literacy, math, and technology integration. Every student is assigned a personal learning device which enhances learning and outcomes. Collaboration, student engagement, and meaningful reflection are supported through this initiative as personalized learning is the goal. Grove has a history utilizing data-driven intervention programs in literacy such as Leveled Literacy Instruction coupled with small group support and leveled math intervention supported by guided math groups. Differentiated instruction is provided in a variety of formats to ensure that higher level skills are attainable with solid foundational mastery in all content areas.
Grove has a diverse teaching staff. Just as instruction for students is differentiated, professional development is offered at a variety of levels for teachers in all content areas. Balanced literacy continues to be the focal point, expanding a model that incorporates a school-wide guided writing program to support and enhance the balanced literacy framework. Math professional development is provided through district and school-based support, addressing state standards and district scope and sequence. The math focus this year has addressed guided math groups to ensure differentiation, individual instruction, and enrichment or remediation.
Grove Elementary supports the Greenville County initiative, Graduation Plus, which encourages every student to achieve a diploma PLUS completion of a vocational/technical certificate and/or college credits. Academic rigor and student support programs that build a strong foundation for future exposure to a variety of careers are in place throughout the school day. Tutorials and peer tutoring occur in the morning before school. Mentors from local businesses and mentoring agencies visit the school throughout the week as Lunch Buddies. Students are offered leadership opportunities through Student Council, The Beta Club, and peer tutoring. Additional clubs include Photography Club, Battle of the Books, FIT Club, the Running Club and Honors Chorus. The school holds an annual Health Fair to promote healthy ideas and provide health-related resources to parents. Proper nutrition and physical activity at school and at home are encouraged and communicated.
Parents are a major part of the Grove school family. Collaboration with parents and family is viewed as an integral part of our work, as parents participate in School Improvement Council, Parent Teacher Association, and the school volunteer program. Parent support programs are offered frequently through the Title I program and through community partners. The Strengthening Families Program and Positive Parenting are each well received and well attended. Grove personnel also expanded the community outreach program, Grove on the M.O.V.E., which brings agencies and support organizations directly in to the community.
Our community partners continue to support us as we continually work towards preparing our students for college and careers. Community support has expanded to include Public Education Partners who provided 13 free books to each child. During a dedicated and teacher supported activity, children were given the opportunity to choose books of interest and on their reading level. The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club, and Communities in Schools have joined us to provide after school academic and enrichment programs, as well as participate in celebrating our successes. West Gantt Baptist Church and Rockvale Baptist Church support and model the character education that is provided daily at Grove.
Grove Elementary focuses on developing the whole child by believing and modeling our motto "Believe, Achieve, SOAR". We are supporting the development of young minds that are prepared to become South Carolina graduates and future leaders.
Deborah Bauer, Principal
Veronica Martinez, School Improvement Council Chair