Rashida Green[email protected]
School SummaryBucknell Elementary, located in Alexandria, Virginia, is a quaint neighborhood school primarily serving the adjacent neighborhoods of Bucknell Manor and Bucknell Heights. Most students live close by and walk to and from school. The school grounds feature ball fields and playgrounds regularly utilized by neighborhood families and local athletic leagues.
Bucknell opened its doors in 1955 and today educates a diverse student body, numbering approximately 300 students, pre-K through 6th grade. Bucknell’s teachers are a dedicated group of professionals focused on preparing students for the future. Bucknell’s street address, University Drive, appropriately reflects the high expectations of faculty for students and teachers, alike. The school community believes that all students can and must learn at the highest level. Every teacher is committed to providing positive learning experiences that emphasize instructional rigor. Classrooms are safe, nurturing places for young minds to develop and grow.
Bucknell teachers are talented members of a professional learning community that aims for high academic results. Through collaborative team planning, co-teaching in an inclusive environment, and continual professional development on research-based instructional practices, teachers work to meet the learning needs of each student. In language arts, students participate in small group guided reading, Socratic Seminars, word study, and writing throughout all content areas. Students acquire higher-order math skills through small group instruction, hands-on manipulatives, and authentic problem solving activities. Students explore topics in science and social studies using interactive methods of study, such as Smartboard technology, interactive notebooks, and project-based learning. Students learn the scientific process and use this knowledge to conduct investigations that are shared in a school-wide Science Fair.
Bucknell also benefits from an award-winning mentor program that matches West Potomac High students with Bucknell students. Mentors provide homework help and school-success coaching for a variety of age levels. In addition, Bucknell’s 6th graders are fortunate to participate in the Bucknell-FBI/CAAA leadership and outreach program. Sixth graders hear speakers, travel on field trips and participate in special events centered on leadership, positive self-image, fitness, and success in school.
Bucknell believes strongly in the parent-school partnership as a critical element to the success of students. Parents and family members are encouraged to volunteer, visit the Bucknell Parent Center and connect with teachers and staff regularly. The parent center is open daily and is the portal for accessing school volunteer opportunities. It also serves as a community and educational resource for parents.
The Bucknell school community believes in the ongoing power of education and the academic success of all students. The mission at Bucknell is to prepare students for advanced classes in middle and high school and to enable students to pursue higher education. “High expectations for all” and giving it “Your Bulldog Best” are words teachers and students live by at Bucknell Elementary.
Last Updated: 2019-02-01