A Trailblazer's Legacy

Sallye Brooks Mathis was a fearless advocate for civil rights and a pioneer in Jacksonville politics as one of the first women elected to the City Council. Mathis held a deep-seated belief in the power of education. Sallye B. Mathis Elementary School is a living testament to the legacy of its namesake. Like Mathis herself, our school’s mission is to inspire young minds and instill a sense of civic responsibility while building action-oriented citizens. The school's commitment to excellence, equity, and community engagement ensures our students are prepared to exceed expectations during their school careers and beyond.

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Reading is FUN-damental

Literacy is a cornerstone of the curriculum at Sallye B. Mathis Elementary. The school's "Cardinals Can Read" program encourages students and their families to engage in daily reading together, fostering a lifelong love of books and building essential reading skills. These skills translate into outstanding communication and interpersonal proficiencies, which are requirements for leadership in today’s demanding workplaces.

Support for the Whole Child

Sallye B. Mathis Elementary students benefit significantly from comprehensive support services. The school offers academic rigor, resilience education, and resources for students with special needs. By addressing the whole child, the school ensures that all students can reach their full potential. We actively involve our families and neighborhood in the educational process, fostering strong partnerships and a deep sense of community.

Let’s Be (Lifelong) Friends

One of the most distinctive features of Sallye B. Mathis Elementary is our friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Many of our students attend the school from pre-K to fifth grade, creating a strong sense of belonging, continuity, and connection. Of course, those who join us later fit in just as easily because of the environment we’ve created. The Sallye B. Mathis family extends beyond the classroom as our staff and community members collaborate to foster student growth and well-being.

Sallye B. Mathis Programs

School Partnerships = Student Success

Communities in Schools

Creates a caring support system for vulnerable students, helping them stay in school and thrive in life.

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Communication & Social Skills Program

Focuses on increasing academic skills, socialization, and communication skills within the context of a positive, behaviorally supportive environment

Full Service Schools Collaboration

Enables United Way and its partners to connect students and families to therapeutic, health, and social services, addressing many non-academic barriers to success

What’s Happening

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