Introduction

This report is provided to parents in compliance with the Education Finance Act (EFA) of 1977 and the Education Improvement Act (EIA).  It presents information about district accomplishments in the
2007-08 school year.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to teach children to teach themselves so they will become independent of us.

 Vision

Saluda County Schools’ students will be creative, caring, responsible, and self-motivated learners who will succeed in an ever-changing world.

 Schools in Saluda County enroll a very diverse population and experience the challenges associated with staffing rural schools.  Yet, over the last five years the school district has made dramatic gains in student achievement.”

SC Education Oversight Committee 2007 Data Brief

•   Ranked #1 in overall improvement in  SC by Measuring Education Gains.

· Leader in producing improved performance during a six year period.

In 2007

· 87% of students scored basic or above in writing on PACT.

· 91.8% of 7th grade students scored basic or above in math.

· 84% of high school students passed the End of Course Test in Algebra/Math Tech. II.

· The 2007 Senior class was awarded over $1,890,000 in  scholarships.

· 80.7% of Saluda High School students passed HSAP on the 1st attempt.

· Graduation rate for SHS was 83%.

· Showed a significant reduction in the Achievement Gap between African American and White students.

· All schools have been awarded the Palmetto Gold or Silver Award for academic achievement.

 ACADEMICS

Over the past five years Saluda School District has become a leader in South Carolina for raising student achievement.  With strong community support, Saluda School District has boldly envisioned an ideal learning environment and as a district we believe all students can learn when provided with the appropriate learning opportunities.

 Our focus on achievement is evident with the continuation of Academy Time, Balanced Literacy, Write from the Beginning, Write for the Future, Thinking Maps, Literacy coaches in each school, sheltered programs for ESOL students, Math Pacing Guides, Science and Social Studies initiatives, along with on-going district assessments in math and reading. 

 Teachers have been provided staff development that focuses on improving student achievement and increasing the knowledge of the subject they teach. 

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 TECHNOLOGY

· Upgraded  WAN , internet access and two servers.

· Placed Interactive Whiteboards in classrooms to enhance instruction.

· Training for interactive whiteboards was offered to all teachers.

· Dedicated computer labs for enrichment/instruction in each school.

· This year we will replace all computers in the labs at the Primary and Elementary Schools at a cost of $75,000.

 FACILITIES

Saluda County has made it a priority not only to improve academics but to improve facilities as well.  In 2001, the District opened the Educational Complex to house both the middle and high schools.  The complex has an approximate enrollment of 1,100 students each year.  In 2002, additions and renovations were made to Hollywood Elementary to make room for the growing number of students moving to the area.  A new wing, new roof, and cafeteria was added to accommodate around 400 students.  This past summer, Saluda Primary School was completely renovated to make major improvements to the appearance of the school as well as much needed upgrades for energy effectiveness.  The 4 million dollar project was completed in December.  Plans are underway for renovating Saluda Elementary School in the future.  Saluda Elementary School houses around 300 students.