We are excited to begin another school year at Fort Dorchester Elementary School!  There were many accomplishments last school year in spite of our pandemic obstacles, and we are excited to make even more great things happen in 2022-2023!  Our school’s goals this year are to continue to implement a Growth Mindset approach school-wide to our students, faculty and parents as well as increase our ways we motivate and engage our students in learning.  We pride ourselves on leading the way in Dorchester Two, South Carolina, and in public education.  My first priority will always be to keep your children safe and help them develop a love of learning which will carry them through their adult lives with TAILS to tell.   

Annette Pletcher

apletcher@dorchester2.k12.sc.us

 Fort Dorchester Elementary School (FDES) opened its doors in 2002.  We are a community of educators helping all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by taking the 2022-2023 school year by the TAIL…TAILS from the Lowcountry to be exact.  Our school motto encompasses everything our students need to be successful life-long learners.  TAILS stands for Teamwork, Achievement, Integrity, Leadership, and Service.  Our students strive to build a community of learners through teamwork with peers, teachers, parents, and community members.  Our students and families come from numerous countries and speak a multitude of different languages.  These diverse student backgrounds provide for unique opportunities for Teamwork!  Along with our community members, we work together as a school family to create data-driven decisions to enhance student achievement.  FDES became a prestigious Palmetto’s Finest school in 2012-2013 and served just under 900 “gators” in our pond and virtually last school year. 

Mission: Fort Dorchester Elementary School is committed to guiding and challenging each student to succeed in life.

Vision: All students will be engaged in the learning process and challenged to meet their highest potential.