Zais Visits CrossRoads Middle on District 5 Tour

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Mick Zais met with administrators and teachers, and visited some classrooms at CrossRoads Middle School on his tour of Lexington-Richland 5 Friday.

"It's important that the state superintendent get out of his office and visits schools and talks to principals, teachers and even visit with some students on occassion to celebrate their successes, to hear what's going well and understand their concern and issues," Zais said. 

Zais sat down with school principal Jess Hutchinson, assistant principal Ryan Pool and teachers to hear about the school's successes and challenges.

The school's single-gender classrooms and media technology class were two of several programs discussed that the school has found to be successful in engaging students in learning.

Zais also visited Ballentine Elementary School, Irmo Middle School and Irmo High School.

Representatives Nathan Ballentine and Chip Huggins were scheduled to join Zais on his tour of Ballentine and Irmo Middle, respectively. 

When asked what he has learned so far on his statewide school tour, Zais said that there are "hardworking professionals in our schools across the state."

"Some of them are working better than others, but by in large the vast majority of the teachers and administrators are hardworking, dedicated professionals who are committed to the success of the children under their charge."