Page 21 - Student Handbook- Bethune Elementary 2018-2019_Neat

COGNITIVE ABILITY TEST (COGAT)/ IOWA TESTS OF BASIC SKILLS (ITBS): The South Carolina Department of
Education (SCDE), in accordance with State Board of Education Regulation 43-220, requires the administration,
scoring, and reporting of a norm-referenced test system. The tests include aptitude (verbal, quantitative, and
nonverbal), achievement in reading comprehension, and achievement in mathematics concepts and problem solving.
The purpose of the assessments is to help identify potential students for academically gifted and talented programs.

The norm-referenced tests (aptitude and achievement) for gifted and talented (Seagul) screening are administered in
the fall of each year to students in grade 2. Based on the results from the norm-referenced tests, a secondary
screening using a performance assessment may be required for possible candidates.

COOPERATION: Your child’s education is a cooperative effort between you, your child, the teacher, the
administration. If problems or concerns arise, please share your feelings with your child’s teacher. More than likely,
he/she will be able to clarify any misconceptions you may have about curriculum or classroom management.
We believe that Together Everyone Achieves More! Let’s work as a TEAM and make every moment of your child’s
educational experience a success. We look forward to working with you this school year.

COMMUNICATION FOLDERS: Each class will utilize family communication folders as a vital
communication link between the parents and the school. These folders are to be sent home every Friday.
Important information from our school, the teacher, PTO, SIC, student work, and much, much more should
be sent home for parents to review with their student.

CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM OVERVIEW: Our school serves
students in Kindergarten through Grade Five. The school organization consists of
heterogeneously self-contained classes in Kindergarten through Grade Five. We have one
special education self-contained classroom as well. Our kindergarten is a full-day program.
Teachers focus on skills as the child is developmentally ready. Success in school and
working cooperatively are emphasized at every grade level. In all classrooms, emphasis is
placed on integrated subject matter and critical thinking skills/problem solving.

Our library, Computer Lab, and specialist teachers in Art, Music, Physical Education, and
SEAGUL further enrich the instructional program. The instructional staff and administrator at
Bethune Elementary School believe that educating children is a team effort and, thus, hold
high expectations for all students to achieve optimal learning!