Pinecrest Elementary School Named Most Improved in South Carolina School Report Cards

Greenwood, S.C.: Celebrating School Success

Hey there, folks! If you’re in Greenwood, South Carolina, there’s some fantastic news coming straight from our local schools. The recent report cards for South Carolina schools have been released, and while the results showed a slight decline in the number of schools receiving an “excellent” rating, one school in our area has emerged as a shining star!

Pinecrest Elementary Shines Bright

That’s right! Pinecrest Elementary School has been recognized as the most improved elementary school across the entire state. Can you believe it? This achievement is especially noteworthy given the challenges that many students face. According to Superintendent Ellen Weaver, the strides made at Pinecrest are not just commendable; they are also a source of inspiration for both the county and the state. “We’re going to be coming to Pinecrest to learn about the secret sauce about what you all are doing in your classroom to move your students along so beautifully,” she stated, highlighting the success of the school’s approach.

A Look at the Numbers

Let’s delve a little deeper into the numbers. This year, the South Carolina Department of Education and the Education Oversight Committee rated a total of 1,261 public schools. Out of these, 232 schools received an excellent rating, 317 were recognized as good, while 477 schools were rated average. Sadly, 186 schools fell below average, and 49 were deemed unsatisfactory. So, it’s clear that getting an excellent rating is no small feat!

Challenges and Triumphs

Principal Barry Jacks of Pinecrest Elementary shared some insights regarding the journey of his students and staff. He emphasized that in the past, both teachers and students were missing an essential ingredient—confidence. “In the past, these teachers and students did not have the confidence they needed,” Jacks explained. He pointed out that despite being a smart bunch, they struggled with self-belief. But look at them now!

Superintendent Weaver also acknowledged the challenges that come with poverty, stating that a staggering 87% of students at Pinecrest come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. However, she was clear that this is not an excuse for underperforming. “I think what we understand from this is we acknowledge poverty as a challenge but it is not an excuse,” she asserted. This determination to overcome obstacles is something we can all admire.

The Road Ahead

Both Weaver and Jacks noted that while it’s essential to celebrate this achievement, there is always room for improvement. They’re not resting on their laurels, and that’s an encouraging message for all of us. It goes to show that hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset can truly make a difference.

What This Means for the Community

For parents and families in Greenwood, this news might be as sweet as apple pie! It’s a clear indication of the quality of education being provided locally. The community can take immense pride in the hard work that educators and students have put in to achieve this recognition.

If you’re curious about how your school is doing, be sure to check out the SC School Report Cards website to see its score and performance metrics. It’s a great way to stay informed and engaged in your child’s educational journey.

In conclusion, let’s take a moment to appreciate the incredible work happening at Pinecrest Elementary and across Greenwood. As we continue to support our schools, we lay down the foundation for a brighter future for our children and the entire community. Here’s to more success stories ahead!