New Simpson Hill Elementary School - Tunnel Hill, IL

New Simpson Hill is a small, rural school located in Southern Illinois with around 215 students in kindergarten through 8th grade. Our focus is on academic achievement, social-emotional growth and safety. The staff has worked hard by implementing a new math and reading curriculum to increase student knowledge and promote success. The school improvement team has established monthly goals where teachers focus on one specific area, such as writing, and incorporate it into their daily lessons. Our staff and students strive to make decisions based on the Six Pillars of Character. Principal Armstrong adds "Just do your best" in every situation you are experienced with. By focusing on a specific character trait each month, students work to become better individuals and seek staff nominations for Mustang Student of the Month.

New Simpson Hill has implemented a Reading Room that serving 1st-4th grade students four days per week for 30 minutes. In the Reading Room, students are placed in groups based on their level to enhance their skills beyond the regular classroom. Students focus on vocabulary and comprehension strategies by working in small groups and utilizing technology like iPads and Osmos.

New Simpson Hill has increased parent involvement by hosting Open House and Family Reading Night at the beginning of the school year. All students receive physical education daily and Response to Intervention class multiple times per week. Students also receive music and computer instruction weekly. Our students are also encouraged to become involved in many extracurricular clubs and sports.