Our Mission
Essentials for success in school, at home and in life:
We believe:
Everyone learns at different rates and in different ways.
High expectations maximize results.
Achievement inspires self-confidence.
Laughter and a sense of humor enhance learning.
Creative thinkers excel in a changing world.
Learning is life long.
Diversity is an asset to be celebrated.
A safe, secure and welcoming environment promotes learning.
Teamwork requires each individual's commitment, responsibility and accountability to the larger community.
The dignity of any individual must never be compromised.
Strengths of our program
The Elmira City School District offers a variety of academic programs designed to meet the needs of all our students.
Arts/Music
- Individual instrumental instruction, 4-12
- Excellent band, chorus and string programs
- Secondary school stage musicals
- Instruments available for students in need
- MIDI and keyboard labs for music and art.
Career Education Services
- Career preparation studies in grades K-12.
- Career Pathways Program in grades 9-12.
- GST BOCES TEC Program training in grades 9-12.
Character Education
- Character education woven into curriculum.
- Service clubs for students interested in helping others.
- Service learning graduation requirement.
Curriculum
- Lessons aligned with New York State standards.
- Consistent curriculum at same grades at every school.
- Curriculum webs enforce learning from grade to grade.
Guidance/Student Services
- Student intervention teams.
- Guidance services for all grade levels.
- School social workers.
- Community mental health therapists in grades 9-12.
- Alcohol /drug education and prevention.
- Tutoring.
- School health clinics.
Instructional Support Services
- Small group instruction in reading and math.
- Team teaching in the content area.
- Veteran teachers assigned to each school to mentor new staff.
Parental Involvement
- Parent volunteers always welcome in schools.
- Parent Partners serve as liaisons between parents and schools, organize events and facilitate workshops.
- Parent Faculty Organizations meet every month.
- Parent Child Resource Center offers assistance to parents of young children, including drop-in play area, lending library and parent education.
Special Education
- Resource service at all grade levels.
- Adaptive PE instruction.
- Early intervention program.
- Professional development program.
- Co-teaching.
- Consultant teacher.
Technology
- Computer literacy instruction at all grade levels.
- Internet access and instruction in all buildings in grades K-12.
- Computer applications, portfolio development, Web page design and computer-aided drafting electives in the high schools.
- Video conferencing equipment to allow "virtual field trips," distance learning.
- Laptop computer labs for instruction anywhere, anytime.
- Pre-engineering studies via Project Lead the Way.