Columbia’s Schools: A Comprehensive Overview

Columbia, South Carolina, is home to over 25 elementary, middle, and high schools serving more than 100,000 students. The city offers a mix of public, private, and charter schools, making it easier for families to find the right fit for their children. This article breaks down important information about the various school districts, including enrollment, student-teacher ratios, and rankings.

Public School Districts

There are several public school districts in Columbia, each with its own strengths and focus areas. Here are some key highlights:

Lexington-Richland School District Five: This district is recognized as the best in the Columbia area and is also ranked as the top place to teach in South Carolina. It has 23 schools with about 17,245 students, boasting a student-teacher ratio of 13:1. The highest-rated schools here include Lake Murray Elementary and Spring Hill High School.
Richland County School District One: This district serves around 22,151 students across 48 schools. It has a slightly lower student-teacher ratio of 12:1. Notable schools include Dreher High School, known for its strong academic performance.
Kershaw County School District: Comprising 19 schools and about 10,856 students, this district has a student-teacher ratio of approximately 15:1. Blaney Elementary School stands out as a top elementary school within this district.
Lexington County School District One: With 31 schools and around 27,766 students, this district has a student-teacher ratio of 13:1 and includes River Bluff High School, which is well-regarded.
Richland County School District Two: This district serves about 28,303 students in 32 schools, with a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. Blythewood High School is one of the standout schools in this district.
Lexington County School District Two: This smaller district has 13 schools and about 8,641 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. Brookland-Cayce Senior High School is among the top-rated institutions.

Private and Charter Schools

Columbia also offers a variety of private and charter schools. The most notable private schools include:

Heathwood Hall Episcopal School: This PK-12 school has 880 students and a low student-teacher ratio of 9:1. Tuition is around $20,000.
Hammond School: Like Heathwood, this PK-12 school charges about $20,000 for tuition and has 999 students.
Cardinal Newman School: This school serves grades 7-12, with a focus on Catholic education and a tuition of about $16,388.

For charter schools, GREEN Charter School Midlands and East Point Academy are among the top choices, providing free options for students and maintaining strong academic standards.

Conclusion

With diverse schooling options available, families in Columbia have the chance to choose from high-quality public, private, and charter schools. Each district and institution has unique offerings and strengths, catering to the varied needs of students across the area.