Students at Southwestern Elementary School follow the Standards of Learning provided by the State of Virginia for each grade level . Southwestern Elementary School has received full accreditation by the Virginia Department of Education. Southwestern is also regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Kindergarten through third grade students are involved in the Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening (PALS). The screening helps to identify students in need of small group instruction to improve their literacy skills. The Accelerated Reader and Accelerated Math Programs offer opportunities for students to go beyond the regular curriculum.

Students who are identified as academically gifted attend special classes. Fourth and fifth grade students who are talented in music and art receive enrichment classes weekly.

Southwestern is host to the Junior Achievement of Greater Hampton Roads, Inc. as part of the career education for Kindergarten through 5th grade. All students participate in this program, which targets economic strands of the Virginia Standards of Learning. The program's mission is "to educate and inspire young people to value free enterprise, understand business economics, and be workforce ready." Junior Achievement  is supported by volunteers from the community and local businesses.

The school has an active tutoring program which provides extra academic assistance for students. Community volunteers are scheduled to work with students one-on-one as needed. The volunteers include several retired teachers and teacher assistants who give their time and talents to the program. Suffolk Fire Department (Holland Station #7) volunteers two days each week in the tutoring program. The students and the firefighters have formed special relationships as well.

In addition, the school has the division's only postal system called "Wee Deliver." This student-operated program is sponsored by the U.S. Postal Service in an effort to encourage students to write. Student jobs include postmaster, clerks, and carriers, offering them the chance to learn about job responsibilities and career choice.

The school continues to serve as a model for the National Fire Protection Association's Risk Watch Program. This in-depth, cross-curriculum program teaches students about safety.

Principal: Nancy P. Harrell nanharrell@spsk12.net