Harmony Elementary highlights rising enrollment, literacy push and courtyard plans

Harmony Elementary Principal Nick Allen and instructional facilitator Cheryl Hathcock presented the school spotlight to the board, highlighting academic growth, rising enrollment and community engagement.

Allen said Harmony’s enrollment is 350 students — up about 20 since the start of the school year — and described the school’s mission rewrite and cultural priorities. He credited a “culture of confidence” approach aimed at boosting teacher efficacy and said the school exceeded expected growth on state end‑of‑grade measures last year, with particularly strong gains in science and reading.

Cheryl Hathcock described school programs, including a second‑year Read for Beads literacy initiative that rewards students with beads and recognition for reading milestones; the school reported 82% of kindergarten students finished last year on or above grade level. Allen also outlined a revised intervention schedule and MTSS (Multi‑Tiered System of Supports) approach intended to provide early supports using diagnostic data.

Harmony leaders described extracurricular clubs, a new courtyard outdoor‑learning project inspired by the county extension demonstration and recent facility improvements: the gym reopened Sept. 30 and the school sealed and restriped its blacktop and added a Gaga pit.

Why it matters: The principal emphasized improved family engagement — including a first annual Grandparents’ Day that drew roughly 300 family members — and said the school is pursuing modest, low‑cost interventions that have yielded measurable gains.

Ending: School leaders asked the board to consider budget assistance for identified needs; the board thanked the team and asked staff to keep them apprised as the courtyard plans progress.