Campus Profile

C.T. Eddins Elementary, in the McKinney Independent School District, is in its tenth year of existence, opening in 1998.  Each year student achievement has increased through the implementation of clearly defined standards, academic expectations at the commended level, and best teaching and instructional practices.  The Eddins’ population consists of 650 students, ranging from kindergarten through fifth grade. Two additional classrooms support students with autism who require more structure and individualized instruction in order to succeed.  Strong emphasis is placed upon narrowing the achievement gap for all, with an intense focus on moving each child forward from where he or she is. Progress of students is consistently monitored by collaboration of teachers, administrators, and parents.  As communicated in the campus mission statement, the Eddins Elementary community works as a team to develop a culture of excellence in all areas of teaching and learning. The mind, heart, and character of each child are nurtured, as lifelong learning becomes a common pursuit. 

This culture of success is developed through a mutual respect felt by everyone within the Eddins’ family.  Throughout the year, there are many opportunities provided to foster The Wildcat Way, such as spirit days, assemblies, and many other all -school functions and gatherings. Each month students, parents, and teachers participate in a Wildcat Assembly in order to recognize individual and grade level achievements.  Student Council officers, along with grade level teacher representatives, facilitate a variety of service projects that enable children to develop a sense of community. Staff members are also honored each month for their exceptional efforts towards improving student achievement in any area of learning. “ Cat Coupons” are given to students when great things are recognized; and each morning during announcements, several children receive recognition.  The C.T. Eddins environment actively involves students and values diversity on a daily basis.  It is great to be part of the Eddins family and to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Content and curriculum are based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) as a standard, with an emphasis on performance at a commended level.  Students are given formative assessments throughout the year in order to determine current levels of performance and academic progress.  Assessments are also used as a means of evaluating gains and to formatively monitor effective instructional practices.  Curriculum maps are developed for each nine-week window to ensure that all TEKS are addressed and that the district’s guidelines are being met.  Close attention to curriculum mapping helps to ensure that there are no gaps in the teaching of content objectives. McKinney School District uses the rubric-based reporting system.  Eddins successfully uses rubrics for monitoring in all subject areas, and students and parents develop an understanding of the district’s accountability and reporting system.  Students are exposed to higher level questioning, hands-on learning, problem solving, and research-based projects.  Programs such as FOSS (Full Option Science System) and Exemplars provide students with many problem-solving and hands-on activities at a higher level of thinking.  Individual education plans are developed for those requiring a more individualized program, students with a limited English vocabulary are placed with a certified ESL teacher, identified gifted-talented students work with a gifted-talented certified teacher, and dyslexic students receive services daily until they successfully progress through the specialized curriculum.  Success stems from building personal relationships with each student, building consistency between grade levels, and using common language and expectations. Teachers are given opportunities for a variety of professional development experiences in all teaching fields in order to strengthen each individual’s expertise.  Opportunities are then given for teachers to train others. The Eddins staff consistently builds capacity amongst its members, which in turn benefits the students.  Valuable resources are used efficiently and frequently, due to the consistent spirit of sharing, teaching, and growing.   

Eddins Elementary is truly blessed with a tremendous amount of community support.  The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) provides funding for supplemental resources or programs that enhance the curriculum.  The Eddins school community provides a positive, secure learning environment where home/school collaboration is a top priority.  Parental involvement is essential for student success and for the campus to maintain its exemplary rating. Eddins Elementary will continue to review data, develop individual plans for all students, and act upon interventions in an appropriate manner.