NBRS Badge for Hitchcock County Elementary School
Hitchcock County Elementary School - Culbertson, NE
VFW Veteran interacts with students on Veterans Day
Hitchcock County Elementary is located in rural Southwest Nebraska in the town of Culbertson located 11 miles West of McCook. The district of Hitchcock County Schools includes the communities of Culbertson and Trenton near Swanson Reservoir and spans 398.2 miles. The central offices and secondary school are located in Trenton and the elementary school is located in Culbertson. The communities of Hitchcock County Elementary are made up of diverse students, many from low socioeconomic standing. Students attending Hitchcock County Elementary are at a poverty rate of 62%.
The principal of Hitchcock County Elementary states that "With all of the problems that come with high poverty, our biggest challenge was motivating all students to a high level of achievement." After a year of meetings to align curriculum and develop essential learning', we were able to close the gaps in our curriculum and create a seamless transition from one grade to the next.
Our next step was creating a school climate with an optimal learning environment along with high expectations. We did this by implementing school-wide Positive Behavior Instructional Support (PBIS). By teaching school-wide expectations and reinforcing good behavior, our office referrals declined and more time was spent in the classroom. Involving parents and community in the process has developed a family atmosphere in our school. Communication with these groups has been key to our success.
We make it a priority to support students by offering intervention early and often. We have also hired more support staff to ensure every students needs are being met.
2018 Awardee
Hitchcock County Elementary School
712 Arizona Street
Culbertson, NE, 69024-0128
Principal at time of Nomination:
Mr. John Kershaw
Mr. Mike Tines, Current Principal
Title I School
Hitchcock County School System
Rural or small city/town
Mission
To produce creative, adaptable, productive citizens committed to life-long learning.
Student Demographics