In alignment with our literacy commitment, we are intentionally focusing our professional development efforts to strengthen teaching and learning across all content areas— empowering students to read, write, think, and communicate effectively. Our theme (Purpose... Power... Practice!) reflects our commitment to equipping every educator with the tools and strategies to empower students as active, independent learners. 

At the heart of this work are Five High-Impact Instructional Practices (HIIPs): 

1. Curriculum Alignment with Standards – Ensuring daily instruction is aligned with the rigor and intent of grade-level standards, promoting clarity and access for all students. 

2. Performance-Based Instructional Objectives – Establishing clear, content-driven goals that foster higher-order thinking and meaningful learning outcomes. 

3. Curriculum-Driven Vocabulary Exploration – Building strong academic vocabulary through intentional, research-based strategies. 

4. Student Independence through Inquiry & Gradual Release – Encouraging students to take ownership of their learning with consistent instructional frameworks that foster independence and inquiry. 

5. Integration & Production of Original Work – Supporting students in synthesizing information from multiple sources when writing. 

This vision is built on feedback from our educators and is designed to ensure professional development is focused, responsive, and actionable—ultimately advancing student achievement and growth across all schools in relation to our literacy commitment. 

Adopted June 2025

Every student in Berkeley County Schools is expected to achieve at high levels, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that happens. From the boardroom to the classroom, we set and uphold clear expectations, provide rigorous, standards-based instruction, and invest in ongoing professional learning to accelerate student success. We hold ourselves accountable for creating an equitable system where instruction, grading, and support are transparent and aligned. By actively partnering with families, educators, and community members, we foster a shared commitment to literacy and academic excellence. At the center of this work are our students, who are expected to engage actively in their learning, take ownership of their growth, and rise to the high standards set for them. With guidance, support, and encouragement, students are accountable for putting forth their best effort, reflecting on their progress, and striving toward academic excellence. Together, we ensure that every student has access to the tools, support, and high-quality teaching necessary to meet and exceed those expectations.