Each of our schools’ leadership teams analyzed the factors that impact their students’ ability to engage deeply and achieve academic success. They shared stories of their students and families, some of whom are facing serious challenges associated with physical wellness, social-emotional stability, unique learning needs, family security, mental health, violence, and food/housing uncertainties. They discussed the obstacles that their students face daily when preparing to come to school on time, ready to learn.

Below is the school’s story as seen through the eyes of school leaders. They discuss the culture of their school and the community.

Four Seasons Elementary is a MAGICAL, kind, caring, and collaborative school. We believe academic success is about our ability to reach and teach our students, and not about the students we teach. We pride ourselves on working together, ensuring every child succeeds, and on having fun.  We have a wonderful staff with minimal teacher turnover.  Upon entering the school, you will find a warm and welcoming environment with halls decorated to support learning (e.g. pictures of former students, student artwork, and student work samples - not to mention Disney pictures everywhere).  Guests and visitors are greeted with a smile and a positive attitude in a friendly atmosphere.    

Our focus is to build an equitable environment for all students and staff. Through county-led professional development opportunities we have increased our knowledge about equitable practices.  Our goal is to meet the needs of all students by supporting their social-emotional learning. This is evident through daily morning meetings in which students build a classroom community where everyone feels safe, valued, and loved.  Calm Down Corners, A Peace Path and Buddy Bench are available to assist students with recognizing and managing emotions, and building relationships.  Additional social-emotional support is provided through lessons, read-alouds, and a partnership with Children’s Guild for identified students and their families.  We celebrate kindness and positive human connections with our “YOU MATTER” campaign.

The leadership team in each AACPS school reviewed all of the factors that may influence their students’ engagement and achievement in school; these challenges include academic data elements, community history, and socio-economic aspects of each community. The school’s leadership team identified the following elements as impactful for their students.

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