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September 03.2025

2 Minutes Read

Cherokee County Schools Celebrate Increased Test Scores in 2025

Promising Progress in Cherokee County Schools

Recent scores from the South Carolina Department of Education indicate a positive trend in educational achievement across Cherokee County's elementary and middle schools. This year's SC READY results show that all local schools have made gains in English Language Arts, marking a significant shift towards closing the achievement gap with the state average.

Statewide Improvements Show Commitment to Education

Across South Carolina, academic performance has generally improved. The percentage of students scoring Meets or Exceeds in English Language Arts jumped from 53.5% in 2024 to 59.6% in 2025. Similarly, math scores rose, suggesting that educational strategies at the state level are beginning to pay off. Cherokee County students have not only met these improvements but have also surpassed their pre-COVID performance levels in ELA.

Exceptional School Performances Bolster Community Pride

Standing out in this academic resurgence, Corinth Elementary School achieved a remarkable score of 72.4% in ELA, ahead of the state average of 60.2%. Grassy Pond Elementary and Northwest Elementary also performed well, showcasing strong local dedication to educational excellence. Notably, Limestone-Central Elementary saw a staggering 20% increase in their ELA scores, demonstrating the impact of effective educational approaches.

Implementation of Strategic Educational Improvements

Dr. Andre Dukes, Assistant Superintendent of Academics, credits these advancements to comprehensive strategies being deployed within the district. The focus has been on enhancing teaching quality and fostering leadership capabilities among educators. Initiatives like Teacher Clarity and Professional Learning Communities have been prioritized to ensure a conducive learning environment. Furthermore, the integration of instructional coaches and evidence-based professional development in math aims to bolster educators’ skills and, subsequently, student outcomes.

The Road Ahead: Sustaining Momentum for Future Success

As the Cherokee County School District looks ahead, the commitment to continuous improvement in student learning remains strong. Programs focused on student-centered coaching and collaborative planning are set to further enhance educational standards, ensuring that Cherokee County students continue to rise to the challenges of an evolving educational landscape.

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09.18.2025

McCormick County's ELA Scores Skyrocket: A Model for South Carolina Education

Update McCormick County Schools Celebrates Top ELA Improvement in South Carolina In an inspiring event held on September 18, 2025, McCormick County Schools received high praise for its remarkable performance in English Language Arts (ELA) education. State School Superintendent Ellen Weaver visited to deliver her State of Education speech and acknowledge the district's achievement of the highest improvement scores in the state. With a notable 14% increase in ELA scores on the SCReady statewide testing, McCormick topped all 46 counties in South Carolina, showcasing the dedication and resilience of both educators and students. Importance of Community Alignment in Educational Success During her address, Superintendent Weaver emphasized the critical role of clarity and alignment in the education system, advocating for a unified vision where schools, families, and the community all strive toward common goals. "The future of our children is based on clarity and alignment," she stated, underscoring the necessity for collaborative efforts that ensure every student is set on the right path to success. This community commitment to education is essential for continuing the upward trend in academic achievement. Understanding the Bigger Picture: Education's Role in Society The significant strides made by McCormick County Schools not only reflect improved test scores but also illustrate a broader commitment to enhancing the educational landscape for future generations. Students' success in ELA is a building block for overall academic prowess and critical thinking skills, both of which are vital in today’s rapidly changing world. The McCormick community’s exemplary performance serves as an encouraging example for other districts looking to enhance their educational outcomes. As South Carolina strives to improve its overall educational system, highlighting local success stories can inspire collective action towards a more effective learning environment.

09.18.2025

New South Carolina Bill Aims to Regulate Educator Social Media Conduct Following Tragic Event

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How Oconee County is Pursuing State Funds for More School Resource Officers

Update Oconee County Seeks State Funding for School Resource Officers In a bold move to enhance the safety of its schools, Amanda Brock, the Oconee County administrator, announced plans to appeal for state funding aimed at creating additional School Resource Officers (SROs). This comes in light of the recent commitment from the governor, who allocated funds for SROs across South Carolina, particularly targeting public schools that currently lack these vital safety personnel. A Proactive Safety Approach Oconee County's efforts in staffing SROs reflect a proactive commitment to student safety. However, the county faces a unique challenge; while it has successfully integrated SROs in collaboration with the sheriff's office and school district, this record might impede its eligibility for state funds. The implication is clear: counties with established safety measures could potentially miss out on much-needed financial support. The Importance of School Resource Officers School Resource Officers play a crucial role in fostering a safe educational environment. They not only provide physical security but also engage positively with students, helping to build trust and rapport within the school community. As conversations around school safety continue to evolve, the presence of SROs is increasingly valued, making funding initiatives like the governor's commitment essential. The Road Ahead for Oconee County As Oconee County navigates this potential funding application, the community's support and community access to information about the process will be invaluable. The upcoming months will be critical in determining whether Oconee will receive the financial backing needed to expand its safety measures. An effective approach could not only provide funds for additional SROs but also further integrate safety into the county's fabric of education.

Cherokee County Schools Celebrate Increased Test Scores in 2025

Promising Progress in Cherokee County Schools

Statewide Improvements Show Commitment to Education

Exceptional School Performances Bolster Community Pride

Implementation of Strategic Educational Improvements

The Road Ahead: Sustaining Momentum for Future Success

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