The Walter C. Black Elementary School located on a nine-acre site on Stockton Street in Hightstown is named in honor of a former lifelong resident of our community who served on the local school board for 54 years. Approximately 610 students in grade K through 5 attend our school. The original building was first occupied in 1950 with additions added in 1953, 1958, 1970, 2000 and our most recent addition in 2004 of two Kindergarten classrooms. We are proud of our school mascot, “Dale the Dolphin” who appears regularly at school functions.

Computer technology is an essential tool in our school used to enhance all areas of the curriculum. Our students use computers which are connected to the Internet as well as Alpha Smarts. All students participate in an integrated language arts program, Spotlight on Literacy. Children’s literature is the focus of most lessons centralizing on a theme of study with skills and vocabulary building emphasized. The writing process is encouraged as well throughout each lesson interweaving student learning styles and problem solving processes.

Current events are an essential part of our classes enhancing our focus on the real world and our desire to prepare our students to take on the role of active citizens. Students are continually encouraged to be involved in the learning process as they work cooperatively with others. Our mathematics program, Math Advantage, uses a sequential spiraling approach that teaches problem solving while relating math to all subject areas and real life situations. Teachers involve students in a variety of activities that include hands-on materials and technology stressing higher levels of abstract thinking. Science also involves students in real life activities through a discovery approach that introduces them to physical, geological and biological units of study. The fine arts program includes art, music, physical education/health, library and world language. Career education is addressed through guest speakers, stories of famous people and visits to various work places.

In addition to academics, our students have the opportunity to join the Safety Patrol, Student Council and Yearbook, take instrumental music lessons, as well as join our band and chorus. Responsible behavior and citizenship are stressed monthly through our Value of the Month program. Each month a different value is highlighted and integrated into our curriculum. Students earn tokens for portraying the value and exchange their tokens for small merchandise in our “Dolphin Cove”. A monthly Student of the Month program recognizes individual students for their specific accomplishments and efforts.

Parents play a vital part in the education of our children. They are encouraged to join our school’s active parent group, visit our school and become partners in the educational process of their children. By working together, each of our children can reach his or her full potential.