TALCOTT W.Va. (Hinton News) – Talcott Elementary is making strong, measurable progress across multiple areas! One key focus has been attendance. The school set a goal to reduce chronic absenteeism by 3 percentage points but has exceeded expectations thus far, decreasing from 25% last year to 20% this year– a 5% improvement. This success reflects the ongoing efforts of the SAIL Team (Student Attendance Impacts Learning), which continues to drive strategies that keep students engaged and present.
Academic growth is also trending upward. Last year, state assessment scores increased by 9 percentage points in English Language Arts and 4 points in math for grades 3-5. This year, grades 3-5 ELA benchmark scores have increased by 14 percentage points, while math has grown by 24 points from the beginning to mid-year. Grades K–2, ELA benchmark scores rose from 50% to 63%, and math improved from 49% to 58%. With continued focus and support, even greater gains are anticipated by the end of the year!
This progress is supported by a strong commitment to high-quality instruction by the Talcott staff. Nine teachers and two support staff are currently participating in LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training, including three who are enrolled in multiple courses. Additionally, two teachers are working toward Wilson Level 1 Certification, strengthening the school’s capacity to deliver research-based literacy instruction. To further enhance instruction, the school was awarded the Dollar General Literacy Grant, which will support professional development in Kagan Cooperative Learning strategies to increase student engagement.
Beyond academics, Talcott Elementary continues to create a well-rounded experience for students. At the heart of the school’s culture is the House System, where every student belongs to a team that promotes leadership through friendship, generosity, courage, and dreaming. Through this system, students engage in service projects, set goals, and are recognized for positive behavior, building a strong sense of belonging and responsibility.
Family and community engagement remain essential to the school’s success. Parent luncheons, hosted by grade level, give families the opportunity to observe instruction, share a meal with their child, and learn ways to support learning at home. School-wide events also foster excitement and connection. The popular Masked Reader event brought energy and enthusiasm to literacy, with students eagerly guessing the identities of costumed staff readers. This year’s winner was Communities in Schools coordinator, Joy Bowling, who delighted students as the Summers County Bobcat.
Student achievement extends beyond the classroom. In the Young Writers Contest, Emryn McLaughlin, a second-grade student, earned district recognition, while Joshua Ramsey, a fourth-grade student, placed first in the state for his division and will be honored in Charleston.
Several students including Kynadee Pence, Joshua Ramsey, Marshall Bennett, Kaylee Whittaker, Clare Fitts, and more were recognized in the Youth Arts in the Park contest. Kaylee Whittaker earned Best in Show for the K–2 division! Their artwork will be displayed at Tamarack in Beckley.
Opportunities for creativity and enrichment continue to grow. The Drama Club, with 29 students in grades 2–5, is preparing for its upcoming production of Matilda jr., giving students valuable performance experience. Additionally, 54 students participate in the after-school program, where they receive academic support, explore STEM activities, and build skills in a structured, supportive environment.
Through a combination of strong academics, intentional leadership development, and meaningful community involvement, Talcott Elementary is creating an environment where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to thrive.
