Jackson Elementary has 514 students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The school opened for students in the fall of 2004. It has 22 general classrooms, 5 special education classrooms, an art classroom, a music classroom, a computer lab, a FEMA safe multipurpose room, a cafeteria, a student support area and a spacious playground. Jackson also has a spacious, well-stocked Media Center with a full-time librarian.

Technology is incorporated in the learning throughout the school. Each classroom has a SMART Board, a projector and a minimum of three computers. Palm handhelds and "clickers" are also utilized by teachers to help students achieve academically. Jackson has a fully equipped computer lab and a paraprofessional to assist teachers and students with utilizing technology. Teachers also have access to two wireless laptop carts for use in the classrooms. Jackson has an active Parents as Teachers program with playgroups meeting every Wednesday.

Jackson Programs

• School Age Program (Latchkey)
• Parents As Teachers (PAT)
• Professional Learning Communities (PLC)
• DARE Program for Fifth Graders
• Site Council
• PTSO

Awards & Achievements

• State Standard of Excellence in Math, 2004-2005

• Battle of the Books Champions, 2005 & 2006

Mission

The mission at Jackson Elementary is to provide our learning community with a safe, positive and collaborative environment promoting student achievement by setting high standards and expectations.

History of Jackson

In April 2000, the voters of the Wichita School District approved a $284.5 million bond issue. The projects began in the fall of 2000 and were completed over the next five years. The plan built 19 multipurpose rooms, upgraded science labs, replaced portable classrooms with permanent construction, improved handicap accessibility to all buildings, rebuilt five existing elementary schools, added a new elementary and middle school, expanded seven other elementary schools and provided nine new libraries as well as the expansion of nine others. Building infrastructure in 82 buildings was also upgraded, including the replacement of antiquated plumbing, updates and expansion of electrical systems, replacement of inefficient or broken windows and doors, upgrades of heating and cooling systems, and asbestos abatement when required. The new elementary school that was added would become Jackson Elementary.

The District contracted with Charles F. McAfee FAIA NOMA, P.A. for architectural and engineering services, and utilized Simpson and Associates Construction Co. to complete the new 600-student elementary school. A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday, October 7, 2002.

On February 10, 2003 the Board of Education approved the name, Abner Val Jean Jackson Elementary. Mr. Jackson was a member of many local organizations and offered support and resources to those in need and frequently asked for those contributions not to be made public. He sponsored numerous local scholarships, continuing education funds and community events aimed at providing higher education opportunities to students. He adopted Seltzer Elementary School and provided financial resources to the school and individual students.

The school opened in the Fall of 2004. The Bond Celebration was held on November 18, 2004.

Technology at Jackson

What is a SmartBoard?

An interactive whiteboard, or SmartBoard is a touch-sensitive board which is connected to a digital projector and a computer. This device allows teachers and students to interact with the computer and its applications. The projector displays the image from the computer screen on the board. The computer can then be controlled by touching the board, either directly or with a special pen that acts as the mouse. There are a number of manufacturers of interactive whiteboards and the district has adopted the following brands as standards.