Sullivan's Island Elementary School

Sullivan's Island Elementary School is a public school in Sullivan's Island, SC, serving students from kindergarten through fifth grade. As a Coastal Environment Partial Magnet school, it emphasizes science, environmental stewardship, and community engagement through hands-on learning. The school fosters a collaborative culture where students are encouraged to grow individually while contributing to a larger, supportive community. Special area classes in music, physical education, Spanish, art, and computer lab enrich the academic experience and nurture creativity and confidence. The school also features five fish tanks that serve as living classrooms, supporting science education and calming the school environment. Students benefit from unique programs such as the Book Vending Machine, which promotes reading by allowing them to exchange tokens for new books, and events like Coastal BINGO Night, which combine fun with hands-on learning about marine life and local ecosystems.

The school’s leadership includes Principal Ms. Susan King, who has served in her role for 22 years and brings over 37 years of educational experience to the school. Her background spans diverse communities across the U.S. and abroad, including Virginia Beach, Miami, and Charleston. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Virginia Tech and a Master’s in Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia, with expertise in science and gifted education. Assistant Principal Erin Wiseman has been part of the SIES community since 2015, contributing as a classroom teacher, lead teacher, and instructional coach. The school maintains strong partnerships with local organizations, such as the Sullivan’s Island Police Department, which supports events like Sandcastle Day, reinforcing the school’s commitment to community collaboration.

Sullivan's Island Elementary School is known for its strong academic foundation, vibrant student life, and deep integration of environmental education. Its reputation is built on consistent excellence, a nurturing environment, and a proven ability to engage students through innovative, real-world learning experiences. The school’s well-documented presence online reflects its transparency and dedication to communication. With a focus on community, curiosity, and coastal stewardship, Sullivan's Island Elementary stands as a cornerstone of education on the island, where every student is encouraged to soar.