Claxton Elementary School derived its name from Philander Priestley Claxton (1862-1957), an active educator and United States Commissioner of Education. When the school opened its doors in 1960 it was situated in the middle of open fields and pastures. Today the school is surrounded by a middle- to upper-income neighborhood. 

The mission statement, Claxton Elementary is a place where all children can learn, where we challenge through high expectations, and where we fulfill individual potential, has remained the same for more than 20 years. It is obvious that the school staff, parents and community believe in the school's mission through the collaborative and ongoing efforts of all stakeholders to provide a rich and challenging learning community for all students in a safe and caring environment.

Because of low teacher turnover, Claxton's staff is stable with close working relationships.  Sixty percent of our teachers are veterans with more than ten years of teaching experience. This stability and longevity builds continuity in instructional programs and strategies throughout the school. The staff works hard to create a professional atmosphere where all families would choose to send their children and all school employees would wish to work. A commitment to continuous improvement is apparent through the staff's willingness and openness to share ideas and to learn new teaching strategies.

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) thrives at Claxton with a strong, active membership base.  There are more than 40 working committees that support such areas as fundraisers, cultural arts, academics, fitness and technology to enrich the educational opportunities for all the students. The PTA works closely with the school staff always asking, "What else can we do to help?".  In 2002, the Claxton PTA was awarded the highest PTA Council award, "Service to Students". Our PTA also won the Guilford County Schools PTA Council Newsletter Award, Honor Unit Award, and Achievement Award in 2005.

Over the years, Claxton has experienced many changes in its educational philosophy and service to students. The present inclusive practices permeate through the school. Students with disabilities ranging from learning disabled to trainable mentally disabled are fully integrated into the total school program. The presence of special needs students encourages staff and students to celebrate and appreciate differences in one another. To ensure success for all students, teachers have become well equipped at differentiating in the classroom. Team planning between teachers, special education staff, and other support staff occurs on a regular basis to create engaging and developmentally appropriate lessons.

The staff works hard to ensure that advancements are made in education and technology.  All classrooms, the media center and the computer lab are network accessible. Staff fully integrate technology in their daily lessons and allowing students the flexibility to use technology in a variety of ways to enhance their learning.