10 Reasons Why We Are Proud to Be Terra Centre Tigers

Terra Centre ES is a vibrant and thriving community of eager learners from diverse backgrounds. Our students bring unique perspectives that enrich our academic environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration among our teachers and students, ensuring everyone benefits from the collective wisdom and creativity of our community.

Our Playground is Where?!?!

Terra Centre’s building is uniquely designed, having been designed during the energy crisis of the 1970s. The school is largely underground, and the playground is located on the roof of the school! The grounds include a discovery garden, a sensory station, and multiple outdoor learning spaces. 

Commitment to Our Environment

Terra Centre was recently honored with the Green Flag award for their eco initiatives in the school year of 2023-2024. Multiple projects were completed in collaboration with FCPS Get2Green resources, community members and organization, and the faculty and students following the National Wildlife Federation project guidelines. Terra Centre was 1 out of 22 FCPS schools who received this award and 1 out of 56 schools in the nation. Eco Clubs students lead projects and supported preschool through 6th grade activities in areas of wildlife habitats, vermiculture, watershed awareness and native planting, monarch rearing and milkweed planting, composting, and water gardening. This is a huge accomplishment for our school and community. When you drive by Terra Centre, be sure to check out our real Green Flag flying out on our flag pole.

Sustainability is a Core Value

Terra Centre has been recognized by the National Wildlife Federation as a Green Flag school for its commitment to sustainability actions through our Caring for Our Watersheds Project.

Connections to our Military Families

Terra Centre was recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children as a Purple Star School. The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families.

Opportunities for Student Engagement

Student programs include:

• Mentoring through MentorWorks program
• Full-time services in Advanced Academic Programs to provide challenging 
  experiences for students in grades 3-6. 
• Spanish classes through the Foreign Language in the Elementary School 
• Schoolwide egg to chick embryology project
• 6th grade legacy painting

Commitment to the Whole Student

Terra Centre teachers practice Responsive Classroom, an approach to teaching and learning that fosters safe and challenging classrooms/schools.  Strategies are provided to bring together social and academic learning throughout the school day, to build responsibility and respect.

Our Staff are All-Stars!

Multiple staff members have been recognized by SEPTA (Special Education PTA) as Award Winners for Outstanding Staff.

Exceptional Student Achievement!

We have seen some amazing achievements from our students. Terra Centre students pass Virginia SOLs at the following rates:

• English Language Arts - 94%
• Math - 93%
• Science - 91% 

Partnerships with Local Groups and Organizations

Terra Centre has benefitted from Eagle Scout projects. They have built the raised beds for our Discovery Garden and maintained repairs through the years. They have also added to available games and activities during recess through paintings on our blacktop.

An Outstanding Community!

Parent engagement is strong, with many attending a curriculum night with their students, and an active PTA that organizes after-school clubs and community events.

Terra Centre Elementary is more than a school—it's a community where young minds are nurtured, and spirits are uplifted. Together, we learn, grow, and make an impact.