Edward E. Taylor Elementary School, located in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, remains committed to developing the World-Class Skills and Life and Career Characteristics outlined in the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. Through high-quality instruction, meaningful relationships, and a student-centered approach, our faculty and staff work diligently to ensure that every child receives the academic, social, and emotional support needed to succeed.
The 2025–2026 school year was marked by continued growth, stability, and a shared commitment to excellence. Edward E. Taylor celebrated a significant accomplishment as the school's state report card rating improved from Unsatisfactory to Average. This achievement reflected the collective efforts of students, staff, families, and community partners and demonstrated the impact of our focus on student growth, academic achievement, and improving the overall culture and climate of the school. Our school community embraced the theme, "Rising Together," as a reflection of our commitment to continuous improvement and our belief that success is achieved through collaboration and shared responsibility.
As a Title I school, Edward E. Taylor continued to utilize federal funding to provide resources and opportunities that enhanced teaching and learning. Students benefited from targeted academic interventions, Tier III support services, enrichment opportunities, and Advanced Academic Programs designed to meet the diverse needs of learners. Through strategic scheduling and data-driven instruction, teachers provided individualized support to ensure that students made meaningful academic progress.
One of the school's greatest strengths during the 2025–2026 school year was the retention and development of instructional staff. Consistency among faculty members allowed for stronger relationships with students and families and ensured continuity in instructional practices. Professional learning focused on the implementation of the district's curriculum initiatives, including i-Ready Mathematics, the Comprehensive Literacy Framework, Orton-Gillingham practices in the primary grades, and the effective use of student data to inform instruction. Teachers engaged in collaborative planning, professional learning communities, and ongoing professional development opportunities to strengthen classroom practices and improve student outcomes.
Student achievement data reflected encouraging growth across grade levels. Teachers utilized diagnostic assessments, formative assessments, and intervention data to monitor progress and adjust instruction accordingly. Growth remained a significant area of success, with students demonstrating gains in literacy and mathematics. The school's focus on early literacy instruction, targeted intervention, and differentiated learning opportunities contributed to increased student engagement and academic development.
Beyond academics, Edward E. Taylor continued to prioritize the social-emotional well-being of students. Staff worked intentionally to create a positive, safe, and supportive learning environment where students felt valued, connected, and empowered to achieve. Schoolwide initiatives focused on building strong relationships, recognizing student accomplishments, promoting positive behavior, and fostering a sense of belonging among all members of the school community.
The school also benefited greatly from the support of its community partners. Organizations such as Foster Grandparents, Torch Bearers of Tomorrow, What About Our Children, the Everlight Foundation, local churches, civic organizations, fraternities, sororities, and numerous volunteers provided invaluable support through mentoring programs, literacy initiatives, family engagement events, student incentives, and service projects. These partnerships strengthened the connection between the school and the community while reinforcing the collective responsibility of supporting student success.
Family engagement remained a priority throughout the year. Parents and guardians were encouraged to participate in academic events, celebrations, workshops, and school improvement efforts. Through consistent communication and collaborative partnerships, families played an important role in supporting student achievement and school success.
As the 2025–2026 school year concluded, Edward E. Taylor Elementary reflected on the progress made and the opportunities that lay ahead. The improvement in our state report card rating serves as evidence that our efforts are yielding positive results and that our students are making meaningful gains. While challenges continue to exist, the resilience, dedication, and commitment of our students, staff, families, and community partners have positioned our school for continued growth. Together, we remain focused on our mission of providing a high-quality educational experience that empowers every student to reach their full potential and become productive, responsible, and successful citizens.
At Edward E. Taylor Elementary, we are Rising Together as we continue building a culture of excellence and achievement for every student.
Yours in Education,
Tiffany Brooks, Principal
Leticia Salas, School Improvement Council Chair
