COLUMBIA — Thirteen schools from around the state have been selected as finalists for the 2026 Palmetto’s Finest Awards. This selection comes after extensive evaluations by a committee of 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, 30 South Carolina schools submitted a 22-page application followed by an onsite examination visit from a review committee. The finalists are currently undergoing a second onsite evaluation.
Each school will have the opportunity to celebrate with their local community, as the winners will be announced through a live stream, via South Carolina ETV, to each finalist school on April 23, 2026.
Elementary School Category Finalists:
- Alice Drive Elementary School—Sumter County Schools
- Cannons Elementary School—Spartanburg School District 3
- Carver Elementary Magnet School—Florence School District 1
- Harbor View Elementary School—Charleston County Schools
- Oakridge Elementary School—York School District 2 (Clover)
Middle School Category Finalists:
- Gold Hill Middle School—York School District 4 (Fort Mill)
- Waccamaw Middle School—Georgetown County Schools
High School Category Finalists:
- Blue Ridge High School—Greenville County Schools
- Fort Dorchester High School—Dorchester School District 2
- Lucy Garrett Beckham High School—Charleston County Schools
Special School Category Finalists:
- Brockman Elementary School—Richland School District 1
- HCS Scholars Academy High School—Horry County Schools
- Laurel Hill Primary School—Charleston County Schools
The South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA) presents the awards each year to schools which offer the best in innovative, effective educational programs. The Palmetto’s Finest Award is celebrating its 46th year and is one of the most coveted and respected awards among educators.
“We are proud to spotlight schools that are pushing boundaries and thinking differently in South Carolina. These innovative institutions demonstrate the caliber of education available to families statewide,” said Dr. Quincie Moore, SCASA Executive Director.
SCASA, the professional organization for school leaders in South Carolina, has more than 5,500 members. 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.