Clay Hill Elementary School

Dr. Julianne Wenner, an associate professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Clemson University, has developed an innovative survey aimed at understanding how parents engage their children in science learning at home. This study seeks to uncover the different ways families incorporate scientific exploration into their daily routines, providing valuable insights for educators. Parents who chose to participate in the survey answered various questions about their involvement in their child’s science education. The responses painted a vivid picture of the enthusiasm and creativity many families bring to learning outside the classroom. One parent shared that her child is absolutely captivated by science—it’s all he wants to do. Their home activities include outdoor gardening, conducting experiments inspired by educational programs on ETV, and frequently searching for answers to science-related questions on Google. The child also has a passion for collecting interesting rocks, which has become a cherished family activity. Another parent revealed that science learning naturally became part of their household due to her background in nursing. Her son was always eager to participate in her studies, often asking to learn alongside her. To nurture his curiosity, she purchases at-home chemistry kits, which he constantly requests more of during their trips to Target. His interest extends to human anatomy, and thanks to his mother’s profession, they have a study skeleton at home with internal body parts, allowing them to explore and learn together. “The overall purpose,” explained Dr. Wenner, “is to develop a reliable survey tool that helps schools understand what science learning is already happening at home.” By collecting this data, she hopes to provide schools with meaningful insights that can enhance science education by building on students’ existing knowledge and interests. Dorchester School District 4 played a key role in piloting the survey with its elementary schools. Participation was strong across the district, with 23 families from Clay Hill Elementary, 50 families from Harleyville Elementary, and 90 families from Williams Memorial Elementary completing the survey. To encourage participation and further promote parental engagement in science learning, families who completed the survey had the option to enter a prize drawing. Dr. Wenner generously provided a variety of prizes, including 25 $50 gift cards, 15 $100 gift cards, and 5 iPads per school. In total, 106 families won prizes, reinforcing the importance of science education at home and inspiring more parents to take an active role in their child’s learning journey. This survey serves as a significant step toward strengthening the connection between home and school science education. With the data collected, Dr. Wenner’s findings will help schools recognize the valuable role parents play in fostering scientific curiosity and provide strategies to support and expand science learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom.

Dr. Julianne Wenner’s Survey Explores How Parents Support Science Learning at Home

February 18, 2025

Dr. Julianne Wenner, an associate professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Clemson University, has developed an innovative survey aimed at understanding how par...

Each month, Ms. Deb’s PIP class explores a new unit from the Pre-K Launch Curriculum by TEACHTOWN. This month, the students are learning about Community Helpers—the jobs they do, the tools they use, and how they serve the community. To make learning meaningful, the class engages in hands-on, play-based activities that bring the lessons to life. Interactive experiences, such as dressing up and role-playing, make learning both fun and relevant for young learners. On Wednesday, February 13, Ms. Deb’s students brought their lessons to life by dressing as community helpers featured in The Food Drive, the book they are currently reading. They also took an "in-school field trip," visiting various staff members to share what they’ve learned about different community roles. Ms. Deb, her assistants, and the students love these engaging activities that make learning an exciting adventure! Article by Principal Ruth Mims Photos provided by Mrs. Tracy DeLee

WMES Preschool Intervention Program (PIP)

February 17, 2025

Each month, Ms. Deb’s PIP class explores a new unit from the Pre-K Launch Curriculum by TEACHTOWN. This month, the students are learning about Community Helpers —the jobs they do...

Community in Action!

February 11, 2025

Woodland Middle School hosted a successful Food Drive on Wednesday, February 5th, from 3 PM – 5 PM, providing much-needed support to our community! This event was coordinated by t...

Ja'Kease Salley and his entire family at his signing.

Ja'Kease Salley Signs Full Scholarship to Mississippi Valley State

February 6, 2025

Woodland High School celebrated a proud moment yesterday as senior Ja'Kease Salley officially signed his commitment to play football at Mississippi Valley State University on a fu...

Woodland High School’s Keith Lowman Recognized as One of South Carolina’s Top Emerging Coaches

February 5, 2025

Dorchester School District 4 is proud to announce that Keith Lowman, a baseball coach at Woodland High School, has been selected for South Carolina’s inaugural Tomorrow’s 25 cla...

Woodland High School Hosts 2nd Quarter Awards Program and Renaissance Rally

February 3, 2025

Last Friday, Woodland High School held its 2nd Quarter Awards Program and Renaissance Rally. Originally postponed due to snow, the highly anticipated event still went on as pl...

The Cedric Frazier Experience Brings Nutrition and Inspiration to Woodland Middle School

February 3, 2025

The sixth-grade students at Woodland Middle School recently had an unforgettable experience, thanks to Chef Cedric Frazier and his engaging program, The Cedric Frazier Experie...

Student receiving student of the month award from Mrs. Sibert

Williams Memorial Elementary Recognizes Students for Excellence

February 1, 2025

Williams Memorial Elementary School recently celebrated its monthly Character Word Student of the Month ceremony on Thursday morning, January 30th, honoring students who exemplifi...

St. George Children's Museum Brings SEL Learning to Clay Hill Elementary

January 31, 2025

As part of the Stronger Connections Grant, Dorchester District 4 has partnered with the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry’s St. George location to bring engaging and impactful So...

8th grade boys team with their parents and coaches

Woodland Middle School Basketball Teams Celebrate Successful Season and New Traditions 

January 31, 2025

Thursday night January 30th, marked a historic moment for Woodland Middle School as both the girls' and boys' basketball teams played their final home game of the season. This...

Williams Memorial Elementary 5th Graders Enjoy Integrating Social Studies and Art

January 30, 2025

January 13-17, 2025, was a GREAT week for our fifth graders! Under the direction of Ms. Gina Bean from Engaging Creative Minds, students planned and created three-dimensional pupp...

Dorchester School District 4 Crowns Spelling Bee Champion at Annual Competition

January 30, 2025

On Wednesday night, January 29th, Dorchester School District 4 held its annual district spelling bee at Woodland High School. The event brought together top spellers from Clay Hil...

Harleyville Elementary School Recognizes Character Students, Teacher, and Staff of the Month

January 30, 2025

On Wednesday, Harleyville Elementary School hosted its Character Student of the Month Breakfast, celebrating students who exemplified Perseverance. One student from each homeroom ...

Last night, the Dorchester School District 4 School Board held its January meeting, which was originally scheduled for January 21st but postponed due to last week's storm. January is School Board Appreciation Month! To show our gratitude, each school and the district office put together special gift baskets for our dedicated board members for their hard work and commitment. The DCEA (Dorchester County Education Association), represented by Casey Britt, Sylvia Wright, and Chaquilla Green, also presented a gift to thank the board members for their service. Last night was also a chance to celebrate our January "Everyday Heroes"! Linda Lewis – Woodland High School Damitha Wertz – Williams Memorial Elementary School Anna Cribb – DD4 Finance Office Thank you to our School Board and Everyday Heroes for making Dorchester School District 4 a great place to learn and grow!

January DD4 School Board Meeting Highlights

January 29, 2025

Last night, the Dorchester School District 4 School Board held its January meeting, which was originally scheduled for January 21st but postponed due to last week's storm. Janua...

Dorchester School District 4 is excited to announce its upcoming "COOL CAREERS WITH DD4" Recruitment Fair, scheduled for Monday, January 27, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The event will take place at Woodland Middle School, located at 4044 Highway 78, Dorchester, SC. This is a prime opportunity for individuals seeking fulfilling careers in education to explore available positions and even secure a job on the spot. The district is hiring for roles such as teachers, bus drivers, special education staff, teacher assistants, cafeteria technicians, and other essential support staff. At the recruitment fair, attendees will enjoy free food, drinks, and the chance to win exciting raffle prizes. Childcare services will be provided, making it easy for families to attend. Additionally, qualified candidates may receive immediate job offers through on-the-spot interviews. Ready to inspire the next generation? Learn how to become a teacher through alternative pathways. Representatives from Carolina Collaborative for Alternative Preparation (Carolina CAP) and PACE will be available for those interested in transitioning into teaching through alternative certification programs. This is a perfect opportunity for anyone interested in becoming a teacher through an alternative pathway. For those who need additional support, resume building and application assistance will be available, ensuring you have the tools you need to succeed. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or take the next step in your journey, this recruitment fair is the perfect place to begin. Start your journey to a rewarding teaching career with DD4 today! For more information, please contact Dorchester School District 4 at (843) 563-4535 or email info@dd4.k12.sc.us. Don't miss this opportunity to build your future and make a difference in the lives of students!

Dorchester School District 4 Hosts "COOL CAREERS WITH DD4" Recruitment Fair

January 14, 2025

Dorchester School District 4 is excited to announce its upcoming "COOL CAREERS WITH DD4" Recruitment Fair, scheduled for Monday, January 27, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00PM. The ev...

Nurse Reeves and Mrs. Washington's classes posing

From Classroom to Clinic: 3rd Graders Explore the Human Body Through Hands-On Learning and Collaboration

January 4, 2025

Article written by Denis Washington, 3rd Grade Teacher at Clay Hill Elementary School. Mrs. Washington’s 3rd-grade class at Clay Hill Elementary School celebrated the conclusion ...

Woodland Students together after completing the obstacle course

Woodland Students Tackle Challenging Law Enforcement Obstacle Course

December 30, 2024

Woodland High School students enrolled in the Law Enforcement class at Dorchester County Career and Technical Center (DCCTC) recently took on a physically and mentally demanding o...

Harleyville Elementary School Launches "The Men of HES" Program

December 29, 2024

Harleyville Elementary School (HES) is taking an exciting step toward empowering young male students through a brand-new initiative, The Men of HES . This program, inspired b...

Woodland High School Student Council Induction Ceremony Celebrates Leadership and Growth

December 28, 2024

On December 18, 2024, Woodland High School held its annual Student Council Induction Ceremony, a proud tradition recognizing the dedication and leadership of students who will repr...

Winning Team for Cupcake Wars with Mr. White and Mrs. Lewis

Woodland High School Food Nutrition Students Shine in Cupcake Wars

December 26, 2024

Woodland High School recently witnessed a sweet showdown as Mrs. Lewis’s Food Nutrition class hosted their own version of Cupcake Wars . The competition brought out the best in st...