COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCIV) -- Eight South Carolina schools are finalists for the 2013 Palmetto's Finest Schools Awards after extensive evaluations by fellow educators and previous Palmetto's Finest winners.
The application process includes elements on student achievement, instructional programs, professional learning communities, and school culture.
Last fall, 18 South Carolina schools submitted a 20-page application and received an onsite examination visit by a review committee. The 8 finalists are now undergoing a second onsite evaluation.
The finalist schools will gather in their schools on Monday, March 11 at 4:00 p.m. to learn which have won the top honors. SC ETV will stream the announcement live to each of the finalist schools.
The 8 finalists are as follows:
Fort Dorchester Elementary, Dorchester 2
Hammond Hill Elementary, Aiken County
Jesse Boyd Elementary, Spartanburg 7
CrossRoads Middle, Lexington District 5
Hanahan Middle, Berkeley County
Ashley Ridge High, Dorchester 2
East Clarendon Middle/High, Clarendon 3
Marrington Middle School of the Arts, Berkeley County
The SC Association of School Administrators (SCASA) presents the coveted awards each year to schools which offer the best in innovative, effective educational programs. The Palmetto's Finest Award is celebrating its 35th year and is one of the most coveted and respected awards among educators.
"We are pleased to offer this recognition for outstanding and innovative schools. They represent the many excellent school communities serving South Carolina's families," said Molly Spearman, SCASA executive director.
SCASA is the professional organization for school leaders in South Carolina, with a membership of more than 3,300.
