Bell’s Crossing Elementary was opened in 2002 to relieve overcrowding in four other Greenville County schools. Although large for an elementary school, rarely does one find a school so student focused. Beginning in kindergarten, students are taught to be responsible for themselves, set academic and personal goals, track their own progress, and be prepared to explain the data to anyone who asks. Every child has a data notebook where both academic and behavioral statistics are kept and updated on a regular basis. Bell’s Crossing was one of the first Greenville County schools to implement the Baldrige Model, which emphasizes leadership, strategic planning, process management, and performance results. Stakeholders selected the work of Steven Covey to provide more “focus on student leadership and developing essential skills that are needed in the workplace of tomorrow,” according to Principal Barbara Barlow. Today more than 10 leadership clubs are provided for students in grades 3–5, while younger students participate in activities with their grade-level peers.

Outreach:  During their 2011-12 award year, Bell’s Crossing staff gave many workshops and presentations. “The opportunity to teach others from all over the U.S. has energized us and lead us to a deeper and broader connection with our nation that we are then able to pass on to our students,” said counselor Kim Groone.

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