A. MISSION
The mission of Preston County Schools is to prepare our students for college, post-secondary education, and the work force.
The purpose of public school education is to provide a program of instruction that is committed to excellence. All school personnel have the responsibility to strive to instill, maintain, and extend in all students a positive self-concept, a feeling of self-worth and an awareness of the dignity inherent in each individual. The objective can only be met through effective instructional leadership, quality learning environments, and appropriate, effective instruction. It is our belief that we share with the community the responsibility for the education of all students so they will be prepared to live and work in our ever changing global society. Teachers as lifelong learners are encouraged to research and apply best practices in curriculum development and teaching methodology. Development of teacher literacy in a technologically advanced global society is reflected in curriculum and instruction.
B. EARLY CHILDHOOD
Early Childhood Education encompasses levels from birth through grade four and builds on educational experiences which begin at home. A child's growth and development are acquired through various experiences which are active, manipulative, and interactive in nature. A child's full potential is realized through self-reliance, self-confidence, and a sense of responsibility being developed.
C. MIDDLE CHILDHOOD
The middle childhood stage ranges from grade five through eight. This unique period, in which the child is suspended between childhood and adolescence requires an educational environment organized to meet the special needs of these students. The shift from elementary school to the high school needs to be gradual and personalized. Enrichment and exploratory programs will be provided to assist middle school learners in their quest for personal identity and self-expression and to prepare them to make appropriate educational, career, and recreational decisions in the future.
D. ADOLESCENT CHILDHOOD
Adolescent education encompasses grades nine through twelve. During this time, students pursue their five year plan developed by the end of the eighth grade. The first two yeas is an awareness and exploration, the second part of the plan would involve choosing and implementing the career majors. This plan provides transition for school to work, preparing the high school graduate to enter the work force or begin a two year or four year technical or college program.
Students are preparing to become productive citizens of a democratic society and capable of dealing with social issues. Guidance from parents, counselors, and teachers will assist students in developing a goal-based plan toward occupational, technical, or college preparatory programs. The occupational program prepares the student to enter the work force with a possible certificate in an area of specialization. The Tech Prep option affords the opportunity to enter a two-year post secondary program culminating in an associate degree. College preparatory courses and college courses are available for students who wish to pursue a four-year degree at the college level. All students will become technologically proficient and enabled to function with a technologically advanced society.
E. ADULT
The Preston County Board of Education believes that learning should be a lifelong activity and accepts the responsibility to provide for educational needs of adults in the community. The adult learning programs in the county are more than extensions of the vocational/technical training provided the students prior to graduation, though vocational/technical training is a part of the adult program. Allowances will also be made for students who have graduated with warranty certificates to return for any needed curriculum reinforcement. The Preston County Board of Education believes in the value of human growth and development as well as the individual's need for self-fulfillment. In dealing with adults, it becomes vitally important that we teach the individual, rather than a particular subject.
F. GOALS
GOAL #2
All students will be ready for first grade.
GOAL #3
All school facilities will provide a safe disciplined environment and
meet the educational needs of students.
GOAL #4
Communication and articulation will occur at all levels and will
encourage a positive partnership between staff, parents, students, and
the community.