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Discover Bessemer

A welcoming and supportive school community where students grow academically, socially, and as leaders through the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Together with our families and community partners, we help every Bobcat become 1% better every day while learning to lead with purpose.

Experience Why Families Choose Us

Bessemer Elementary is a caring, welcoming community where students, staff, families, and partners work together to help every Bobcat feel valued, supported, and successful. Our culture is grounded in 1% Better Every Day, the 7 Habits, strong relationships, high expectations, and the belief that every student can lead and grow with purpose

Student Supports

We provides a variety of supports to help every student succeed academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. Supports include school counseling, MTSS interventions, small-group academic support, Exceptional Children services, English Learner support, school-based telehealth, the Black Child Development after-school program, and the Operation Excel after-school program located at our school. Coming soon, Bessemer will also offer a school-based behavioral health telehealth program to provide additional mental health and behavioral support for students and families.

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Points of Pride

  • Improved School Performance Grade: Through the hard work of our students, staff, families, and community, Bessemer improved its School Performance Grade from an F to a D.
  • Academic Growth: Our students continue to demonstrate meaningful academic growth and increased proficiency.
  • Leader in Me: We are developing student leadership through the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and helping students recognize their strengths and potential.
  • Strong School Community: Our families, staff, and community partners work together to support student success and create a welcoming, supportive environment.
  • 1% Better Every Day: We are committed to continuous improvement and helping every Bobcat grow academically, socially, and as a leader each day.

 

Academics

Leader in Me: Students learn and practice the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, building leadership, responsibility, goal-setting, and problem-solving skills.

Data-Driven Instruction: Teachers use student data, common formative assessments, and progress monitoring to provide targeted instruction and support.

Advanced Learning Opportunities: Students in 4th and 5th grade have the opportunity to participate in advanced placement classes that provide increased academic rigor, enrichment, and opportunities for higher-level thinking and problem-solving.

Advanced Learning Opportunities: Students who demonstrate advanced academic needs are provided opportunities for enrichment and appropriately challenging instruction.

Whole-Child Learning: Along with strong academics, we focus on student leadership, social-emotional development, positive behavior, and helping every Bobcat become 1% better every day.

Programs and Opportunities

Families can expect a variety of student-life opportunities that help students build confidence, leadership, creativity, and school pride. These include Leader in Me leadership opportunities, student clubs and enrichment activities, music and arts experiences, schoolwide celebrations and events, and opportunities for students to participate in fitness, movement, and team-building activities throughout the year.

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School Discovery Month

All GCS families and future families are invited to explore our amazing schools during School Discovery Month.  Visit, ask questions, meet our staff, and see all the opportunities GCS has to offer in your attendance zone, as well as our Choice schools and programs.

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The Guilford Guarantee

One district.
Many possibilities.

No matter whether you choose your neighborhood school or a Choice school or program, GCS has a school that's right for your child.  Through the Guilford Guarantee, all schools will help students understand their potential and provide multiple pathways to success after high school.

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Learn about the Guilford Guarantee

College Credit 

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Opportunities to earn college credit while in high school.

Career Credentials 

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Access to industry recognized credentials in high demand fields.

Real-World Experience 

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Hands-on learning through internships, apprenticeships and work based learning.

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Choice Application Window
October 9 through December 4, 2026, at 5 p.m.

Elementary & Middle School Selections
Step Date
Lottery and Notification Friday, December 11, 2026
Family Accept and Decline Offers Deadline Friday, December 18, 2026
High School Options Selections
Step Date
Lottery and Notification Friday, February 5, 2027
Families Accept or Decline Offers Deadline Friday, February 12, 2027