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13 S.C. schools are finalists for Carolina First Palmetto’s Finest Awards

January 15, 2010

Thirteen South Carolina schools are finalists for the 2010 Carolina First 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, faculty training, program goals and teaching quality, office practices and community involvement.

Last fall, 30 South Carolina schools submitted a 20-page application and received an onsite examination visit by a review committee. The 13 finalists are now undergoing a second onsite evaluation.

The finalist schools will gather in Columbia on Tuesday, March 23, at the Koger Center for the Arts, at 6:30 p.m. to learn which four of them have won the top honors. The coveted awards, sponsored by Carolina First, through a grant from the Carolina First Foundation, and the SC Association of School Administrators (SCASA), are presented each year to two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school.

The 13 finalists are as follows:

Fort Dorchester Elementary, Dorchester 2 
Killian Elementary, Richland 2
McDonald Elementary, Georgetown County
Midway Elementary, Anderson 5
Oakland Elementary, Spartanburg 2
Springfield Elementary, Greenwood 50
Woodland Heights Elementary, Spartanburg 6
Dent Middle, Richland 2
Kelly Mill Middle, Richland 2
Loris Middle, Horry County
Riverside Middle, Greenville County
Wade Hampton High, Greenville County
Wren High, Anderson 1
 

The SC Association of School Administrators (SCASA) and Carolina First present the awards each year to two elementary schools, one middle school and one high school which offer the best in innovative, effective educational programs. The Carolina First Palmetto’s Finest Award is celebrating its 32nd year and is one of the most coveted and respected awards among educators.

“We’re pleased once again to partner with Carolina First to offer this recognition for outstanding and innovative schools,” said Molly Spearman, SCASA executive director. “Carolina First’s support validates the importance of quality education for South Carolina’s young people.”

“This is a very competitive award, and it’s an honor to be among the finalists. Carolina First is once again delighted to help recognize these high-achieving schools,” said David Lominack, Market President for Carolina First.

Other partners for the 2010 awards include Data Recognition Corporation, which is sponsoring a leadership reception before the ceremony.

SCASA is the professional organization for school leaders in South Carolina, with a membership of more than 2,800.  From professional development opportunities and research, to publications and legislative advocacy, SCASA’s focus is to support school leaders in providing the best possible education for South Carolina’s young people.  As a state affiliate of three national associations for school leaders, SCASA also works on the national level.
Originally post by  Midlands Biz