Cullowhee Valley School is a K-8 rural school located in Jackson County a mile from Western Carolina University. We believe that every child has unique qualities that make him or her an important part of a bigger story. Therefore, our mission is to provide a learning environment that celebrates and supports the individual, grows an awareness of connections between self and others, and provides skills that open and expand visions of future opportunities.
The climate of the school is warm and friendly, and Positive Behavior Support Systems are used to develop social skills in students. We have an active PTA and encourage volunteering by both parents and WCU faculty and students. We provide opportunities for parents and community members to participate in school activities, including a Fall Festival, Family Curriculum Night, Talent Show, and Musical Performances.
Our proximity to the university allows many opportunities for collaboration with WCU faculty, some of which have created afterschool programs of Reading Camp for first graders and a Language Experience Acquisition Program (LEAP)for students learning English as a Second Language.
We work to build enthusiasm for reading through a vibrant media program, which has included author visits, Battle of the Books teams, monthly games, and reading incentives. Each year Cullowhee Valley holds a Reading Fair based on a theme such as biographies, fairy tales, or mountain culture.
Cullowhee Valley has made commitments to improve student health and to improve science education through STEM activities. Through a collaboration with the WCU Nutrition Department, students in grades K through 5 participate in monthly taste tests of local produce and take part in our "Get in the Action Day," which engages them in physical activity and learning opportunities targeted to each grade level. There are Math, Robotics, and Stream Watch Clubs.
Cullowhee Valley’s middle school Career Technology Education program focuses on STEM activities, Biotechnology, and career exploration. We have three 3-D printers that are available to teachers and students. A school-wide science fair is held each year.
Cullowhee Valley faculty and staff believe that every student has something to contribute and strive to provide opportunities for them to develop leadership skills. Students are involved in a variety of service projects, including SAND, recycling, grounds clean-up, Hoops for Heart, Breakfast Buddies, Safety Patrol, and Jump Rope for Heart. Middle school students can choose to serve as peer helpers to support the learning of younger children. Students can participate in Dulcimer Club, Chorus, Art Competitions, Fifth Grade Honor Choir, State Choir, and Junior Appalachian Musicians, made possible through community grants.
Our commitment to nurturing the whole child through relationships and experiences is evidenced by our low numbers of discipline referrals, the positive interactions throughout the school, and the learning opportunities students engage in daily.
Its time for Kindergarten Registration for the 2024-2025 school year! Please visit https://jcpsncc.scriborder.com/ to register. Parents will need birth certificates and proof of residency to complete registration.