Local Schools Compete for 2025 Palmetto’s Finest Award

News Summary

Three schools from Horry County and one from Florence County have been named finalists for the 2025 Palmetto’s Finest Award. St. James High School, Academy for the Arts, Science, and Technology, and Socastee Elementary School are leading the charge from Horry County, alongside South Florence High School. This prestigious award recognizes excellence in educational innovation and effective programs. The winners will be announced on April 30, 2025, creating excitement within the community as these schools showcase their achievements.

Exciting News for Local Schools in the Grand Strand and Pee Dee!

Hey there, folks! Great news is coming your way as three fantastic schools from Horry County have been named finalists for the highly esteemed 2025 Palmetto’s Finest Award. The lucky contenders are none other than St. James High School, Academy for the Arts, Science, and Technology, and Socastee Elementary School. Additionally, we can’t forget our friends at South Florence High School from Florence School District 1, who also made the cut!

What’s All the Buzz About?

The Palmetto’s Finest Award is like the Oscar for schools in South Carolina. It recognizes schools that are shining examples of innovation and effective educational programs. Schools that earn this honor demonstrate exceptional learning environments where both students and teachers are engaged and thriving. Winning this award is a big deal!

A Look at Our Finalists

First up, we have St. James High School. This school is not new to the winners’ circle — it snagged the award back in 2016! That makes them the only school in this year’s finalists from the Grand Strand and Pee Dee region that has previously won this accolade. Their track record speaks volumes about their commitment to educational excellence.

Next, let’s dive into the Academy for the Arts, Science, and Technology. This school has been making waves with its unique approach to education, combining arts and sciences to foster creativity and critical thinking. Who wouldn’t want to learn in such a vibrant environment?

And we can’t forget about Socastee Elementary School. This little gem is shaping the minds of our youngest learners, and their dedication to providing a nurturing and effective learning space is commendable. Their inclusion as a finalist is a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Last but definitely not least is South Florence High School. Representing Florence County, this school has shown impressive innovation in educational programming, making them a worthy finalist. Their commitment to student achievement and community involvement makes them stand out.

What’s Next?

Mark your calendars, everyone! The winners of the 2025 Palmetto’s Finest Award will be announced on April 30, 2025. There is no doubt that the anticipation will be building as we get closer to that date. The excitement in the air is palpable as these schools prepare to put their best foot forward in showcasing their incredible programs and achievements!

In Conclusion

As the finalists gear up for this competition, it’s a reminder of the hard work and dedication that our local schools invest in the education of their students. The Palmetto’s Finest Award highlights just how important these institutions are to our community, providing a solid foundation for our future leaders. Whether you are a teacher, parent, student, or community member, it’s time to celebrate these schools that have gone above and beyond in securing a brighter future for our kids.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed as we await the announcement of the winners. Good luck to all the finalists — you make us proud!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

South Florence High School Named Finalist for Prestigious Award

Additional Resources

• WBTW News
• Wikipedia: Palmetto’s Finest Award
• Myrtle Beach Online
• Google Search: Palmetto’s Finest Award
• WMBF News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: School
• Island Packet
• Google News: Horry County Schools