North Augusta Schools Shine in Recent State Report Card
Good news is pouring in for schools in North Augusta as recent data from the South Carolina Department of Education reveals some standout achievements in the 2022-2023 academic year. Families and educators alike have much to celebrate, as several schools have received commendable ratings, reflecting their dedication to student success.
Fox Creek High School Among the Best
Leading the pack is Fox Creek High School, which proudly earned an “excellent” rating, placing it in the top 18% of schools in South Carolina. This public charter school, which has been a cornerstone of education in North Augusta since 2004, showcased its strong graduation rates that exceeded the state average. According to the latest report, a remarkable 94% of seniors graduated last year, compared to 85% statewide.
Principal Ian Bramhall praised the hard work of teachers, stating that their commitment to going “the extra step” has resulted in students overcoming the learning gaps that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. A significant 89% of first-year students were reportedly on track to graduate, outpacing the 83% average for South Carolina freshmen. Trahan emphasized this achievement as a reflection of the students’ dedication, saying, “This is a huge accomplishment for our students.”
Challenges Beyond Graduation
However, not all news is rosy. While 94% of Fox Creek’s seniors graduated, only 69% were considered college or career ready right after graduation. Furthermore, despite the high number of college applications—96% of seniors applied—only 57% went on to enroll in either two- or four-year colleges. This gap in readiness remains a challenge, sparking concerns among local businesses struggling to find qualified workers.
Diane Knight Named Teacher of the Year
In other exciting news, Diane Knight from Merriwether Middle School was named Teacher of the Year in 2022, highlighting the significant impact educators have in the North Augusta community. Merriwether also shared the accolades, receiving an “excellent” rating and ranking in the top 12% among all middle schools in the state. Her commitment to student progress year over year has set a shining example for her peers.
Hammond Hill Elementary Steadily Improving
Meanwhile, Hammond Hill Elementary, which opened its doors for the school year in July, garnered a “good” rating, showcasing their commitment to a positive school environment. This school has been a welcoming place for students and families, as evidenced by the bustling energy on the first day. Schools like Belvedere, Paul Knox Middle, and others in the North Augusta area have earned “good” ratings too, which reflects the growing commitment to educational excellence.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Dr. Amy Edwards, Chief Officer of Instruction for Aiken County Public School District, acknowledged that while the ratings are promising, there’s plenty of work to do to ensure all students are progressing effectively. “We know where we fell short, and we have a plan to address these areas,” she stated confidently, highlighting the district’s focus on improving student outcomes and readiness.
Corey Murphy, the ACPSD Superintendent, shared his optimism about the future, stating, “We are committed to improving on-time graduation of students, student achievement in core subject areas, and their readiness for post-graduation endeavors.” This commitment signals a forward-thinking attitude aimed at fostering both the intelligence and ambition of Aiken County’s students.
Conclusion
As North Augusta communities celebrate these accomplishments, it’s clear that dedication from teachers, students, and families is leading the way to a brighter educational future. With continued focus and support, the schools in North Augusta are sure to keep moving forward, striving to meet the needs of every student.
