School Profile
School Profile |
The Center for Inquiry is a Richland Two magnet
school for kindergartners through fifth graders.
As a Professional Development School, it unites our district
with the University of South Carolina to create a unique learning environment in a small
school setting.
The Center for Inquiry's teachers remain with the same group of students for two years, to
minimize time lost in transitions between grades and to build strong learning communities.
A key feature is the school's focus on "inquiry based" instruction. The classes
emphasize hands-on learning experiences, high-interest studies, and integrated curriculum.
The approach is innovative and students are held to high standards.
How many students may attend?
198 students are enrolled in the program, with 22 children in each of the
nine
classrooms.There are currently two Kindergarten classrooms,
two 1st grade classrooms, two 2nd grade classrooms, one 3rd grade classroom, one
4th grade classroom and one 5th grade classroom.
What if I have two elementary school children?
To the extent possible, Richland Two accommodates families so all of their elementary school children can
be enrolled together.
What standards apply?
Students learn the same content and participate in the same testing programs as
all other Richland Two students. In addition, profiles of student achievement are
developed and discussed at parent-student-teacher conferences. The school has an advisory
council of parents, Richland Two personnel and USC faculty.
Who staffs the school?
Using the resources of Richland Two and USC, the center is staffed by master
teachers who are among the state's finest in inquiry-based education.
Can my child transfer into the program during the
school year?
No. Students are selected before the beginning of the school year.
Where is the Center located?
On the campus of Summit Parkway Middle School, the Center for Inquiry has its own
identity as an elementary school. It was housed in portable classrooms
but is now in a beautiful new building.
What about facilities like a library and cafeteria?
Students use the Summit Parkway cafeteria and an adjacent public library.
What is the school schedule?
Students follow the normal elementary school schedule, which results in the arrival and
departure times being different from middle school students.
May my child participate in subjects like art,
music, and PE?
These subjects are taught once a week by the 'special areas'
teachers.
Is transportation available?
Parents must provide their own transportation.
Is there an after school program?
An after school program is provided on a sliding fee scale.
What If my child is currently in the ALERT program?
A child can retain his/her status as a gifted student, but there is not an ALERT
component to this program. The academic needs of gifted students are accommodated in each
classroom.
What If I have a special needs child?
Special education students who are able to learn in a regular classroom setting are
eligible to attend.
Is there a full day kindergarten program?
Yes, the kindergarten class offered at the Center is a full-day program.