Exploring Schools in Columbia, SC

Exploring Schools in Columbia, SC

Columbia, South Carolina, is home to a diverse range of educational opportunities for families. With over 100,000 students enrolled across various public school districts, parents have many choices when it comes to selecting the right school for their children.

Public School Districts

Columbia features several major public school districts, each with unique strengths and challenges. Here’s a brief overview:

• Kershaw County School District: This district has 19 schools and serves about 10,856 students with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1.
• Lexington County School District One: Comprising 31 schools, this district serves approximately 27,766 students, with a lower student-teacher ratio of 13:1.
• Richland County School District Two: With 32 schools, this district supports around 28,303 students, maintaining a student-teacher ratio of 14:1.
• Lexington-Richland School District Five: This highly-rated district includes 23 schools and serves about 17,245 students, also with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio.
• Richland County School District One: This district consists of 48 schools and caters to roughly 22,151 students, with a better ratio of 12:1.

Top-Rated Schools

Among these districts, several schools stand out:

• River Bluff High School: Located in Lexington County School District One, this high school has a student enrollment of 2,197 and a ratio of 16:1.
• Dreher High School: Part of Richland County School District One, it has 1,150 students with a 15:1 ratio.
• Blaney Elementary School in Kershaw County is known for its strong ratings, serving ≤710 students with a 15:1 ratio.

Private and Charter Schools

Apart from public schools, Columbia also offers private and charter options. Some of the top private schools include:

• Heathwood Hall Episcopal School: This school has a student-teacher ratio of 9:1 and tuition around $20,000.
• Ben Lippen School: With 1,154 students and a 9:1 ratio, it’s recognized for its Christian education.

Charter schools are also gaining popularity. GREEN Charter School Midlands stands out with a 10:1 ratio, offering students another educational path.

Choosing the Right School

When selecting a school in Columbia, it’s important for families to consider factors like student-teacher ratios, school rankings, and location. Each district has its unique characteristics, enabling parents to match the school environment with their child’s needs.

For families in Columbia, finding the right school is a critical decision, and an abundance of options ensures a suitable choice for every student.