Academics

Our Approach

At Long Creek Elementary, academics and the arts go hand-in-hand. Guided by the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, Cambridge Primary, and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ resources, we set the stage for curious, courageous, and creative learners. Through engaging instruction, arts integration, and high expectations, we help every child discover their strengths and achieve success.

Curriculum & Instruction

• Core Academics: Students build strong foundations in literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. Teachers use CMS pacing guides, assessments, and best practices to ensure rigorous, standards-based instruction.
   
• Cambridge Primary: As a Cambridge International school, Long Creek integrates the Cambridge Learner Attributes—confident, responsible, reflective, innovative, and engaged—into daily learning. This global framework develops problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills while preparing students to be active global citizens.
   
• Arts Integration: As a Creative Arts Magnet, we weave music, dance, theatre, and visual arts into daily learning. The arts provide students with multiple ways to explore, express, and deepen their understanding.
   
• Encore Programs: All students participate in specialized classes such as Art, Dance, Theatre, Music, Media, and Physical Education. In 4th and 5th grade, students select an Encore “major” for deeper study.
   

Supporting Every Learner

We believe that every student can learn, grow, and shine. Our teachers differentiate instruction to meet diverse needs, offering:

• AIG (Academically/Intellectually Gifted) services for advanced learners
• Single Subject Acceleration (SSA) in math when appropriate
• Intervention and support services in literacy and math
• EC (Exceptional Children) and ML (Multi-Language Learners) programs to ensure access and equity for all learners
   

Assessments & Growth

We use a variety of assessments, such as i-Ready, DIBELS, and state End-of-Grade tests (EOGs), to track growth and guide instruction. More importantly, we help students learn to set goals, reflect on progress, and celebrate achievement as they Strive, Think, Achieve, and Reflect (our STAR framework).

Global Citizenship

As part of the Cambridge framework, Long Creek encourages students to become global citizens. Our students participate in service-learning projects, cultural celebrations, and schoolwide campaigns to support our community and world. From food drives to International Week, students learn that their voices and actions can make a difference.

Partnership with Families

We know learning is a team effort. Long Creek families receive curriculum guides, literacy and math resources, and opportunities to attend workshops and curriculum nights. Together, we build the leaders of tomorrow, one bright mind at a time.

Our Commitment

At Long Creek, academics are more than test scores. They are about preparing students to embrace endless opportunities, with curiosity to explore, courage to take risks, and creativity to solve problems in new ways.