Exploring the Schools of Columbia: A Comprehensive Guide
Columbia, South Carolina, is home to over 25 elementary, middle, and high schools, serving more than 100,000 students. For families navigating educational options, we’ve gathered essential information to help simplify the decision-making process.
Public School Districts Overview
Columbia features several major school districts, each with unique characteristics. Here’s an overview of the districts:
- Kershaw County School District
– Number of Schools: 19
– Total Students: ~10,856
– Student-Teacher Ratio: ~15:1
– Top Schools: Blaney Elementary, North Central Middle School, Lugoff-Elgin High School. - Lexington County School District One
– Number of Schools: 31
– Total Students: ~27,766
– Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1
– Top Schools: Lake Murray Elementary, Meadow Glen Middle, River Bluff High School. - Lexington County School District Two
– Number of Schools: 13
– Total Students: ~8,641
– Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1
– Top Schools: Springdale Elementary, R.H. Fulmer Middle, Brookland-Cayce Senior High School. - Lexington-Richland School District Five
– Number of Schools: 23
– Total Students: ~17,245
– Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1
– Top Schools: Lake Murray Elementary, Chapin Intermediate, Spring Hill High School. - Richland County School District One
– Number of Schools: 48
– Total Students: ~22,151
– Student-Teacher Ratio: 12:1
– Top Schools: Rosewood Elementary, Crayton Middle, Dreher High School. - Richland County School District Two
– Number of Schools: 32
– Total Students: ~28,303
– Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1
– Top Schools: E. L. Wright Middle, Blythewood High School.
Private and Charter School Options
In addition to public schools, Columbia also offers a range of private and charter schools.
Top Private Schools
- Heathwood Hall Episcopal School – Grades PK-12, Tuition: ~$20,000
- Hammond School – Grades PK-12, Tuition: ~$20,000
- Camden Military Academy – Grades 7-12, Tuition: ~$23,495
- Ben Lippen School – Grades PK-12, Tuition: ~$17,000
- Cardinal Newman School – Grades 7-12, Tuition: ~$16,388
Top Charter Schools
- GREEN Charter School Midlands – Grades K-8, Tuition: Call for info
- East Point Academy – Grades PK-8, Tuition: $149 annually
- Richland One Charter Middle College – Grades 11-12, Tuition: Free
- Gray Collegiate Academy – Grades 7-12, Tuition: Free
- Midlands Middle College – Grades 11-12, Tuition: Free with dual enrollment
Key Takeaways
As families consider the right school for their children, this guide offers a starting point for understanding the range of options available in Columbia. With a mix of public, private, and charter schools, parents can find a choice that aligns with their values and educational goals.
