Gadsden Elementary School is committed to helping every student soar to greater heights by providing engaging and meaningful learning experiences that foster creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication.
This year, we will continue our commitment to building a strong educational foundation for all students. Our focus is on developing the critical thinking skills essential for lifelong learning and success. In mathematics, students strengthen their numeracy skills by developing a deep understanding of numbers and number relationships. Through constructing and deconstructing numbers, students build conceptual knowledge that supports their understanding of multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals with greater confidence and efficiency.
In reading, students are encouraged to think critically about texts by asking questions, making connections, and analyzing information. They learn to connect what they read to other texts, real-world events, and personal experiences. These connections help students deepen their comprehension and better understand an author’s purpose and choices. When students engage in critical thinking, they become active participants in meaningful learning experiences.
Additionally, our teachers continue to implement Visible Learning practices based on the research of John Hattie. Visible Learning empowers students to take an active role in their educational journey through clearly defined Learning Intentions (what students are learning) and Success Criteria (how students will know they have achieved their goals). These tools help students monitor their progress and better understand what success looks like. Teachers also utilize Learning Progressions to provide a clear instructional roadmap that supports mastery of the South Carolina College- and Career-Ready Standards.
At Gadsden Elementary School, our mission is to cultivate academic excellence by providing a high-quality education in an environment where every student feels valued, respected, challenged, and supported. We believe all students can achieve at high levels, and we maintain high expectations as we prepare them for future success.
Dr. Shevawn Rivers, Principal
Kelley Sullivan, SIC Chair
