In a display of community partnership, Harbison West Elementary School (HWES) and the Optimist Club of St. Andrews-Irmo are celebrating significant achievements and ongoing initiatives aimed at supporting student success.
At a recent breakfast meeting, Dr. Thomas Turner, Principal of HWES, provided an update on the collaborative efforts between the school and the Optimist Club, highlighting the positive impact on student learning and development.
One of the longstanding initiatives supported by the Optimist Club is the school’s Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program. Through financial contributions and active involvement in DARE awards ceremonies, the Optimist Club helps instill important life skills and values in students while fostering trust between youth and law enforcement.
Another key partnership focus is HWES’s summer reading program, generously supported by the Optimist Club. This initiative ensures that students have access to books over the summer break, helping prevent learning regression and promoting continuous academic growth.
Dr. Turner also shared encouraging news about HWES’s academic progress, particularly in reading and mathematics. The school’s commitment to exceeding state and district standards reflects the dedication of educators and the invaluable support of community partners like the Optimist Club.
In addition to these initiatives, Optimist Club members actively participate in school events such as Field Days, fostering a sense of camaraderie and providing students with enriching experiences beyond the classroom.
Looking ahead, Dr. Turner outlined his vision for HWES, which includes offering specialized tracks of study for academically gifted students. This forward-thinking approach aims to expose students to diverse career paths and mentorship opportunities, empowering them to become the heroes of their own stories.
The collaboration between HWES and the Optimist Club serves as an example of the power of community engagement in nurturing the next generation of leaders and achievers. As we celebrate these achievements, let us continue to support initiatives that uplift and inspire our youth, ensuring a brighter future for our community.
For more information about HWES and the Optimist Club’s initiatives, visit their respective websites or contact the school and club representatives directly.
Pictured are speaker sponsor Gary Boyd, Dr. Thomas Turner, and Club President Kerry Powers who presented the speaker with a copy of the Optimist Creed.
