Congratulations to William Childers!

We are so proud to celebrate William, a former student of Harding Elementary School, for earning the 2025 Global Seal of Biliteracy, an honor awarded to students who demonstrate high proficiency in two or more languages.

William attended Harding from kindergarten through sixth grade in the school’s Dual Immersion program, where he developed strong skills in both English and Spanish. The program also introduced him to cultural traditions such as Día de los Muertos, making learning both meaningful and engaging.

“I truly enjoyed every moment at Harding,” William shared. “It was a place where I felt encouraged and supported.” He also credits teachers Ms. Gradillas and Ms. Jorgenson, as well as former principal Mr. Aguilera, for guiding and supporting his growth.

After moving from California to South Carolina, William said he had a head start over his peers, as he was in seventh grade taking high school-level Spanish thanks to the strong foundation he built at Harding.
William continues to use the skills he gained at Harding. He excels in advanced Spanish courses, frequently serves as a translator for his family during trips, and communicates confidently in both languages.

William recommends Harding Elementary to families, especially those considering the Dual Immersion program. “Harding has great teachers, a supportive environment, and a program that really helps students succeed,” he said. “You build strong connections with classmates and teachers, and those experiences stay with you.”

William’s achievement highlights the lasting impact of Harding Elementary’s Dual Immersion program, both academically and culturally. We are incredibly proud of William and all of his hard work! We are also proud of Harding, its principal, teachers, and staff, who create a supportive environment where students thrive and celebrate language and culture. William’s success reflects both his dedication and the guidance he received at Harding. Great job, Eagles!