From stellar programs to academic gains, J.K. Gourdin Elementary School in Berkeley county is on the move. We're in Pineville for our Cool School of the week.
J.K. Gourdin is a community school in rural Berkeley county. Two-hundred-ninety students in Head Start through fifth grade have small class sizes.
The Title One school has Palmetto Silver Awards for student performance, and awards for making Adequate Yearly Progress for several years. There are three computer labs at J.K. Gourdin.
Web Extra: J.K. Gourdin Elementary Choir
The school has an excellent volunteer program comprised of parents, families, and community members. When you walk into J.K. Gourdin, you're in a family friendly atmosphere. Principal Lorene Bradley says, "J.K. Gourdin Elementary School is the best kept secret in Berkeley county and in South Carolina. There is lots of love in this school, love for the children, love for the school, love for the community." Teacher Shilia Patton says, "We're a small school, so we're a family. Everyone is here for each other." Second grade student Jakeirah Darby says, "We have a nice principal."
"They treat us like we're they're son and daughter," says second grade student Langston Reed. Fourth grade student Brandonn Watts says, "I think it's a Cool School because it's a home away from home, and it gives each student a quality education." School volunteer Ruth Jenkins says, "We have a lot of things that enhance the children's education, that's why we're a Cool School. I want you to come see our cool school, from the cool principal on down, so Channel 2, you are a too cool station."
The school has an active school improvement council and PTA. J.K. Gourdin has family literacy programs which promote families reading together.
We've included a performance by the school's fabulous choir.
Coming up Wednesday on News 2 Today, we'll tell you about the school's strong community support, including the Dads Club.
We want to hear about the good things going on at your school. Send an email to Octavia at omitchell@wcbd.com. Maybe your school will be the next Cool School of the week.
