F. J. DELAINE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

F. J. Delaine Elementary is a Title I public elementary school that is part of the Sumter 01 school district, located in Wedgefield, SC with about 129 students offering grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten to 5th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 12 teachers, F. J. Delaine Elementary has a student/teacher ratio of about 10:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

F. J. Delaine Elementary School is a public school located in the rural community of Wedgefield, South Carolina. Serving students in Sumter School District, the school is deeply rooted in its local community, often functioning as a central hub for families in the Wedgefield area. It provides a foundational educational experience with a focus on core academics, character development, and creating a supportive, nurturing environment for its elementary-aged learners.

The school is notable for its historic significance, having been founded during the era of school segregation by Joseph A. De Laine, a pivotal civil rights activist and educator who played a key role in the *Briggs v. Elliott* case, which eventually became part of the landmark *Brown v. Board of Education* Supreme Court decision. Today, F. J. Delaine Elementary honors this legacy by fostering an inclusive educational setting, emphasizing student growth, and maintaining a commitment to preparing its students for future academic success through dedicated faculty and community engagement.

For more information, contact F. J. Delaine Elementary at (803) 494-2661 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.