South Newton Elementary School in Newton, North Carolina faced a significant post-COVID absenteeism challenge, with 43% of students missing three or more days in the first quarter of the 2023-24 school year. By partnering with Schools That Lead and using Improvement Science, they reduced absenteeism to 27% in just one year.
Foothills Community School (FCS) in McDowell County, North Carolina, has long been recognized for its innovative approach to education, particularly in STEM learning. Since opening 2016, FCS has used Project-Based Learning (PBL) to foster student engagement and academic success. In 2023, the school was named a North Carolina STEM School of Distinction—a testament to its successful implementation of the STEM School Progress Rubric–further solidifying its reputation as a leader in hands-on, inquiry-based learning.
