• Retrospective Curriculum Narrative:
    2023-24 Investment Areas

    ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

    The largest percentage of SSEF funding is dedicated to academic enrichment and curriculum-enhancing educational programs. These dollars support curriculum initiatives that further all SRS students' mastery of Math, Science, English, and the Arts.

    Classroom Libraries & Learning to Read Resources

    Along with the Media Center, classroom libraries and the SRS book room offer easy access to literary resources. These libraries boost students' literacy, reading time, and skills like fluency and comprehension. Funds cover books, leveled readers, and novels to support the Georgia Standards of Excellence and IB Inquiry-based Units.
    Grades: All - $2,456

    High Touch, High Tech

    Brings local scientists to the school, where they set up and oversee "in-house" field trips that provide students with hands-on learning experiences directly tied to each grade level's Science curriculum and the Georgia Standards of Excellence.
    Grades: All - $17,222

    Math Workbooks & Manipulatives

    Purchases math manipulatives, consumables, workbooks and "hands-on" tools to support the Common Core Curriculum, Math Exemplars, the APS math program. Math manipulatives include base ten counters, geometry builder sets, ten frame sets, teaching cash registers, play money, clock dials, and more. These help students learn about counting, time, measurement, geometric shapes, addition, and subtraction. Our math standards encourage children to learn to demonstrate skills and strategies needed to succeed in mathematics, including critical thinking, reasoning, effective collaboration, and expression.
    Grades: All - $8,466

    Specials Programs: Art, Foreign Languages, Music, & PE

    Provides funds for program-enhancing training, materials, and equipment to supplement what APS provides.
    Grades: All - $4,385

    Science Lab

    Enhances the IC science lab by providing tools and materials for basic scientific concepts and hands-on experiments.
    Grades: 3-5 - $1,997

    International Baccalaureate Inquiry Materials, Resources, Dues, & Program Fees

    SRS is an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program school. IB promotes active learning, well-roundedness, and global citizenship. The IB program influences the entire curriculum at SRS, focusing on essential skills for learning and global citizenship. SSEF funds cover inquiry materials, dues, and program fees.
    Grades: All - $10,375

    International Travelers Week

    The International Travelers Program is a week-long immersion in a foreign country's culture, history, and language. Unique to Sarah Smith, it's a collaborative effort involving parent volunteers, teachers, and administrators, bringing a new country to the school each year. SSEF funds support this one-of-a-kind global experience for all SRS students.
    Grades: All - $1,976

    TOTAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS: $46,875

    TALENT & MANAGEMENT

    The SSEF is committed to supporting faculty development opportunities that encourage teaching innovation and excellence. Investments in this area include a focus on improving teacher efficacy in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program.

    Classroom Investment Funds

    With the goal of enhancing the learning environment at SRS, the SSEF provides a $300 check to every full-time teacher and $50 to every classroom paraprofessional to purchase individualized classroom supplies that support the curriculum.
    Grades: All - $24,100

    International Baccalaureate Training

    SSEF funds are available for all teachers to attend IB training and development opportunities.
    Grades: All - $27,357

    Academic Competitions, Teacher Grants, & Teacher Training Enrichment

    Provides funds for SRS student participation academic competitions such as the Technology Fair, Science Fair, and APS Math Tournament where motivated SRS students represent our school in district- and state-level competitions. The SSEF offers a grant program allowing teachers to apply for up to $500 through the Teacher Initiatives Grant Program to try out innovative ideas and fresh educational approaches in their classrooms. SSEF funds are also available for teachers to attend training in the following areas and more: Reading and writing, Dual Immersion, Dyslexia, Faculty Support, Assistant Principal, and GATE.
    Grades: All - $18,753

    TOTAL TALENT & MANAGEMENT: $70,210

    TOTAL 2023-2024 SSEF BUDGET: $117,086