Overview of Schools in Columbia, SC

Overview of Schools in Columbia, SC

Columbia, South Carolina, offers a diverse range of educational options for families. With over 100,000 students enrolled across 25+ elementary, middle, and high schools, parents have plenty of choices when it comes to their children’s education. Here’s a closer look at the key public school districts, private schools, and charter schools in the area.

Public School Districts

Columbia is home to several major public school districts, each with its own distinct features:

• Kershaw County School District: Includes 19 schools with approximately 10,856 students and a student-teacher ratio of about 15:1.
• Lexington County School District One: Comprising 31 schools, it serves roughly 27,766 students with a low student-teacher ratio of 13:1.
• Lexington County School District Two: With 13 schools and around 8,641 students enrolled, this district has a student-teacher ratio of 14:1.
• Lexington-Richland School District Five: This district ranks No. 1 for places to teach in South Carolina, enrolling about 17,245 students with a student-teacher ratio of 13:1.
• Richland County School District One: Home to 48 schools and nearly 22,151 students, this district has a more favorable student-teacher ratio of 12:1.
• Richland County School District Two: This district has 32 schools with approximately 28,303 students and a ratio of 14:1.

Private Schools

For those looking for private education, Columbia boasts several top-rated institutions. Some notable private schools include:

• Heathwood Hall Episcopal School: Serving grades PK-12 with a total enrollment of 880 and a student-teacher ratio of 9:1.
• Hammond School: This PK-12 school has 999 students enrolled with a ratio of 11:1.
• Ben Lippen School: Enrolling 1,154 students from grades PK-12, this school features a student-teacher ratio of 9:1.
• Cardinal Newman School: A Catholic institution for grades 7-12, it has an enrollment of 557 students and a 12:1 ratio.

Charter Schools

Columbia’s charter schools offer additional educational options for families. Here are some notable mentions:

• GREEN Charter School Midlands: Serving K-8 students with a current enrollment of 302, it boasts a 10:1 student-teacher ratio.
• East Point Academy: This school has an enrollment of 776 students from PK-8 with a ratio of 14:1.
• Richland One Charter Middle College: A high school option for grades 11-12, it has 79 students enrolled and no tuition fee.

Conclusion

Choosing the right school is a major decision for any family. Columbia provides a variety of options, whether families prefer public, private, or charter education. Each district and school offers different strengths and community values, allowing families to find the best fit for their students.