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.

The job of educating children in the 21st century requires a collaborative effort between parents and school staff.  Our staff remains committed to helping each and every student achieve their potential.  Students at PHES demonstrate empathy, ethical decision making and social responsibility all while creating positive and supportive relationships with each other.  Our staff supports this by holding daily community-building circles where students are encouraged to listen and speak to their classmates. 

To further support our students, PHES holds new student orientations and hosts an ambassador program that helps welcome new families. Students at PHES are encouraged to solve conflicts through Restorative Practices, which allows them to build trust through meaningful conversations.  As a Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) school, we direct our students’ focus upon being respectful, responsible, and safe every day; and encourage all of our students to embrace our Pershing Hill Elementary School Promise.  

The theme of our Enhancing Elementary Excellence (EEE) program is Arts and Humanities.  Through this program, our students are challenged to participate in project-based learning opportunities that seek to solve real-world problems.  As a school supported through Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) grants, many of our after school clubs focus on Cyber Security and technology.  The DoDEA grants also provide funding for our teachers to spend extra time refining and improving their craft. 

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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