Dear Parents,
Welcome to the South River Elementary School web site. Whether you are a member of the South River community, considering a move to our district or are simply surfing the 'net, it is our desire that you find this site enjoyable and filled with great information.
At South River, our mission is to promote strong academics, acceptance of personal responsibility, outstanding student discipline, and to encourage excellent home and school communication. The outstanding reputation of our school system continues to attract families seeking an excellent education for their children. The South River Elementary School houses students in grades three through five and operates a highly regarded integrated preschool program in a modern facility.
We truly believe that our school is a learning community and a community of learners. The instructional program that is presented by our staff is of exceptional quality but education goes beyond the classroom. The students learn by the modeling and knowledge that the staff offers. Students, teachers, and community members bring with them a wealth of information, experience, and backgrounds that enhance the basic core knowledge of all of us. This sharing makes us all stronger learners and more knowledgeable about the world around us.
Our school takes pride in its highly qualified, motivated, and dedicated professional staff that works to positively impact the lives of our students. It is also important to take note of our school’s staff that consists of over 50 trained and committed professionals whose goal is to educate the 640 students and to provide them with a safe, secure, and happy learning environment. Our staff’s commitment to excellence is reflected by our teachers, support staff, instructional aides, cafeteria aides, secretaries, and our custodians. Everyone believes that “Everybody is Somebody Special” and this spirit serves as a daily guide for our school. We welcome your involvement and participation as part of our Elementary School family.
Our students are enriched with a variety of programs that provide a well-rounded education, such as Vocal Music, Art, Library, Physical Education, Computer Lab, Spanish, Instrumental Music, and a Gifted and Talented program. The guidance counselor provides weekly in class lessons to each class, and a science specialist enhances the district's science curriculum with instruction. Our special education programs include two self-contained classes, resource rooms, and an extensive inclusion model. In addition, we offer programs for speech, English as a Second Language, and bilingual education in Spanish.
The elementary school boasts an extensive infusion of technology. In addition to the modern computer lab, all classrooms are outfitted with computers having online access and connected to large television monitors. Most classroom teachers enjoy access to SMART Board technology. Our media center houses a large collection of books, computers, videotapes, journals, and magazines.
The third grade participates in a walk through town, stopping at various township offices and sites of interest, where they learn about the rich history of South River. The entire school participates in enjoyable activities throughout the school year, such as Spirit Days, Read Across America Day, Halloween, numerous assemblies, Field Trips, and concerts. Our fifth graders serve as hall monitors and role models for the younger students. The talents of our students are showcased in a drama club production and musical concerts.
We enjoy a wonderful relationship with the PTA and the community as they provide immense support for the school's programs through enthusiastic volunteerism and ongoing fundraising efforts. Our parent community is attentive and responsive to the needs of their children as they demonstrate a great interest by attending activities such as Back to School Night, parent-teacher conferences, parades, Education Week classroom visitations, Strategic Planning Initiatives, Parent University courses, and student performances.
I consider it a privilege to be a part of such a hardworking, knowledgeable, and supportive school community. Together we strive to provide a positive and safe learning environment for all students.
Sincerely,
Wayne Sherman
Principal
