News Summary
Horry County Schools are celebrating significant achievements as the South Carolina Department of Education reports that 72% of schools received excellent or good ratings in 2023-2024. With a district-wide graduation rate jumping to 86.3%, students are showing remarkable academic performance, particularly in reading and math. New superintendent Clifford Jones prioritizes community engagement and student safety, fostering a supportive environment. Local literacy programs further enhance educational opportunities, contributing to a bright future for the students of Horry County.
Exciting Times in Horry County Schools: A Rise in Ratings and Community Focus!
Horry County, known for its beautiful beaches and warm southern charm, has more to celebrate than just its summer fun! The Horry County Schools district has recently received glowing reviews from the South Carolina Department of Education, with an impressive 72% of schools rated as excellent or good in the 2023-2024 annual state report cards. With 36 out of 50 schools shining brightly, it’s safe to say that the district is on the right track!
Grades are in – and they’re great!
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the fact that zero schools in Horry County received ratings below average or unsatisfactory. That’s right—every school is doing at least okay, and many are thriving. This success is reflected in the district’s on-time graduation rate, which took an impressive leap from 82.1% last year to 86.3% this year. This marks the highest graduation rate since the accountability system started back in 2018.
Even more encouraging, over 77% of the 2024 graduating class have been recognized as college or career-ready. This is a jaw-dropping increase of 12 points compared to last year! Such performance is helping to lay a strong foundation for the future of Horry County’s youth.
Academic Excellence
When it comes to academics, Horry County Schools are hitting the mark! Students in the district have shown exceptional performance, with reading and math scores exceeding state averages. In reading and writing, Horry County students scored an impressive 61.5%, compared to the state average of 54.1%. The math scores didn’t fall short either, with Horry County at 50.8% against a state average of 42.8%. These figures show just how hard students, teachers, and families have worked together to achieve academic success.
A New Leader with a Vision
As of February 3, a new face is at the helm of Horry County Schools—Clifford Jones, who stepped in after former superintendent Dr. Rick Maxey’s retirement. Jones is making waves with his focus on community engagement and student safety. He is passionate about connecting with the community, often seen at local events, fostering relationships that can enhance the educational environment.
One of Jones’ top priorities is to ensure that every student reads at or above grade level. He believes that achieving this goal is not just a possibility—it is attainable. He also recognizes the importance of extracurricular activities, which play a crucial role in developing essential skills such as responsibility and teamwork.
Safety as a Top Priority
With the rising concerns around safety, especially online, Jones is taking a proactive approach to ensuring that Horry County Schools remain a secure environment for all students. This commitment is vital for building trust and confidence within the community.
Coffee and Conversation
To foster open dialogue, Jones has introduced “Coffee with Cliff” events. These gatherings provide a cozy atmosphere for community members to informally discuss pressing topics and share their ideas with the superintendent. It’s a friendly invitation for everyone to engage and contribute to the school environment.
Literacy Support Opportunities
Moving beyond grades and scores, community support is also thriving! The Palmetto Literacy Council in Horry County is making a significant impact by offering free tutoring for reading, writing, and math to children and adults. Led by a retired Coastal Carolina University professor, the program serves 60 students weekly, with many more eager to join—showcasing a pressing need for literacy assistance.
For those looking to get involved, the literacy council welcomes volunteers. If you have two hours a week to spare, and are ready to undergo some training, you can make a real difference. Monetary donations for educational materials are also much appreciated, bolstering the efforts of this remarkable initiative!
Hope on the Horizon
With strong academic ratings, dedicated leadership, and a caring community, the future looks bright for Horry County Schools. As students embark on their educational journeys, support and collaboration among families, teachers, and community members will be key in fostering a thriving learning atmosphere. Here’s to continued success and the bright minds of tomorrow!
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News: State Report Cards Show Majority Horry County Schools Rated Excellent/Good
- Wikipedia: Horry County, South Carolina
- My Horry News: Who is Clifford Jones?
- Google Search: Horry County Schools
- WPDE: Palmetto Literary Council Volunteers
- Google Scholar: Literacy Programs Horry County
- Drug Store News: Dollar General Literacy Foundation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- WMBF News: Horry County Schools Adult Education Offering Free Classes
- Google News: Horry County Schools Education
