![page background](https://cdn.smore.com/u/backgrounds/custom_bg-650d9b297a87749e123f952a-181b8d00638f.jpg)
![Logo](https://cdn.smore.com/u/thumbs/b7e1/thumb-da861c8bcb8ee2f61317b150873f4716.png)
MEDIA RELEASE
July 2, 2024
Salem Avenue Elementary Earns Model School Designation
Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) is proud to announce Salem Avenue Elementary School has been designated a Model School by The Center for Model Schools. The designation recognizes Salem Avenue's dedication to fostering student success, cultivating a family school culture, and implementing innovative strategies to address the diverse needs of its learners.
Tom Garner, who is entering his 20th year as principal at Salem Avenue, believes a positive school culture contributes to better student achievement. Garner began working with his staff to improve the culture and climate at Salem Avenue after hearing a presentation at the Model Schools Conference a number of years ago. That work led to the implementation of several new programs designed to build relationships throughout the school community, which now rallies around the catchphrase "1323 is the Place to Be."
Pictured (left to right): Dominic Gianninoto, Marcie Burleson,
Kimberly Newcomer, Tyler Newcomer, Tom Garner
Salem Avenue Elementary School's designation as a Model School was announced during the 2024 Model Schools Conference. Teachers Marcie Burleson, Kimberly Newcomer, Tyler Newcomer, Community Schools Specialist Dominic Gianninoto, and Garner made two presentations during the conference entitled Transforming Futures: Innovative Ideas for Improving School Culture and Student Achievement. The presentations described Salem Avenue's work to develop a positive school culture and the impact it's had on student achievement.
Building a Positive School Culture at Salem Avenue
Blitz
- Teachers visit the home of every student who will be in their class prior to the first day of school
- Builds relationships between teachers, students, and families
- Helps teachers better understand the community the school serves
Rock the Block
- Block party and BBQ held at the school following the annual meet the teacher event
- Makes families aware of resources offered by community partners
- Helps connect school staff, students, and families
Throughout the School Year
- Students and staff recite the Salem Saber Pledge each morning and commit to building relationships and exhibiting respect.
Salem Saber Pledge
I'm a Salem Saber and it's up to me
To treat others with respect and show responsibility
We try our best so everyone can see
1323 is the place to be!
- Teachers know and value each student because relationships drive learning.
- Staff plan instruction and utilize small groups to help meet the needs of each student.
- Students share what they're learning and exhibit their work at showcases hosted by the school.
- Guest speakers and special trips are used to bring learning to life.
- Members of the school community recognize special occasions throughout the year by wearing T-shirts featuring the school's designated theme. The shirts help develop the culture that Salem Avenue Elementary is a team of one and keep the school's annual theme "in front" of students, staff, and families.
Summer Sendoff
- Every Salem Avenue student selects free books to take home on the last day of school
- Promotes reading and continued learning over the summer
The Center for Model Schools, a division of HMH, is the only organization devoted to providing year-round leadership support through its Model Schools Conference, leadership cohorts, and 1:1 consulting. Leaders partner with The Center to create a Model School environment, where students can realize their greatest potential - because every child deserves a Model School, and leaders make it happen.