Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School is an elementary school in Charleston, SC. As a partial magnet school, it serves students in the West Ashley area through an arts-integrated approach. The school follows SC state standards for core subjects alongside the state's Visual and Performing Arts standards.
The school utilizes an arts-integrated curriculum where teachers incorporate the arts to increase student engagement and achievement. Students participate in two arts-based Special Area classes daily, which include Art, Music, Cultural Arts, STEAM, Media, Theater, Movement, and Physical Education. Students in first through fifth grades may also register for optional classes in Ballet or Strings. The curriculum for younger grades incorporates programs such as The Creative Curriculum, Heggertys, and CKLA, while older students utilize Number Corner and Bridges. Beyond the classroom, the school hosts various programs such as the Animal Ambassadors Club, Hip Hop dance showcases, and school-wide sculpture residencies.
The school is located on Wallace School Rd, near Sam Rittenberg Boulevard and Ashley River Road. It is situated a short distance from Willie Gaines Park and the Saint Andrews Fire District Headquarters.
The school is recognized for its commitment to excellence, featuring award-winning educators including a recent Rookie Teacher of the Year and a 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. As an ABC Certified School and a member of the Arts School Network, the institution maintains a high standard of specialized programming for its students.
Through its dedicated focus on integrating creativity with core academics, Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School provides a unique educational experience for the Charleston community.
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