Categories: School News

South Carolina Honors Schools with 2025 Palmetto’s Finest Awards

Students at a South Carolina school celebrating their recognition during the 2025 Palmetto's Finest Awards.

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News Summary

The South Carolina Association of School Administrators has revealed the 2025 Palmetto’s Finest awards, celebrating schools excelling in education. Finalists include Socastee Elementary, South Florence High, and The Academy for the Arts, Science, and Technology. The awards highlight schools that focus on student outcomes and innovative instructional programs. The recognition process involved an extensive application and evaluation phase to ensure the winners exemplify a commitment to education.

South Carolina

The South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA) announced the recipients of the 2025 Palmetto’s Finest awards, recognizing excellence in education across the state. The awards were revealed during a live broadcast on SCETV, underscoring the achievements of schools that demonstrate exceptional student outcomes, innovative instructional programs, professional learning communities, and a strong school culture.

This year’s finalists include Socastee Elementary School in the elementary school category, South Florence High School and The Academy for the Arts, Science, and Technology (AAST) in the high school category, while finalists in the middle school category were also announced but not specified.

Selection Process

The 2025 winners were selected following an extensive application process involving self-evaluation, peer reviews, and two on-site evaluations that focused on verifying student achievements and the quality of instructional programs. SCASA emphasized that these awards highlight schools that exemplify a commitment to innovation within South Carolina’s education system.

Finalists’ Profiles

Socastee Elementary School, the only Title I elementary school in its area, serves more than 850 students and is recognized for its emphasis on both academic rigor and student well-being. The school works to ensure that its students are well-prepared for future academic challenges.

South Florence High School serves approximately 1,600 students across two campuses. The main campus accommodates grades 10-12, while a dedicated freshman academy supports incoming students. This high school offers a variety of specialized opportunities, including Advanced Placement and dual enrollment classes, as well as access to the Florence One Center for the Arts.

The Academy for the Arts, Science, and Technology (AAST) serves more than 570 students from nine different attendance zones and focuses on preparing students for careers in STEM fields. AAST provides a unique two-year Majors Program for high school juniors and seniors, promoting discovery and creativity through hands-on, project-based learning. Students at AAST are encouraged to develop into global citizens, equipping them for life after graduation.

History of the Awards

The Palmetto’s Finest awards were first established in 1978 and traditionally honor a select number of elementary, middle, and high schools each year. Typically, the awards recognize two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, highlighting the diverse educational landscape across the state.

Viewing the Announcement

A recording of the announcement ceremony is available for public viewing, allowing the community to celebrate the achievements of these exemplary schools. The recognition from SCASA not only highlights individual school accomplishments but also reflects the dedication of educators and staff throughout South Carolina’s education system.