Columbia Schools Celebrate Academic Achievements and Milestones with Exciting Events

Exciting Times for Columbia’s Students and Schools!

Columbia, South Carolina is buzzing with excitement as our local schools celebrate some amazing achievements this week! From prestigious scholarships to heartfelt homecoming events, there’s lots to dive into.

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Let’s start with some big news in the world of academics! The National Merit Scholarship Program has announced its semifinalists, and our local high schools are shining bright. Students from several schools have made the cut, showcasing their hard work and dedication.

Dreher High School has shown its prowess, with students Spencer S. Bush, Robert L. Leonardi, Jiale Liu, and Beckham J. O’Neill leading the charge. Meanwhile, A.C. Flora High School is represented by William M. Beasley and Brooks J. Ransom.

The ever-impressive Hammond School boasts a list of semifinalists that includes Aspen M. Brooks, Nicholas D. Glenn, and Michael B. Rice, among others. Heathwood Hall Episcopal School has its own shining stars in Camrynn Beck, Joseph Hauk, and Mary Ruskell.

Not to be left behind, Irmo High School, Cardinal Newman High School, South Carolina Connections Academy, and Spring Valley High School also have their standout students. All in all, it’s clear our young scholars are making waves!

Perfect Test Scores!

In another exciting academic achievement, a whopping 57 students from Lexington-Richland School District Five scored a perfect score on the SC READY tests for the 2023-2024 school year! Students like Jacob Abdulrahman, Alice Biddle, and Veronica Gummere are proof that hard work pays off, and they should be celebrated for their remarkable accomplishments.

Teacher of the Year

Switching gears to the dedication of our educators, a shout-out is well-deserved for Rona Stuart, a social studies teacher at Spring Valley High School. She’s been named the 2024-2025 District Teacher of the Year for Richland School District Two! Rona’s commitment to fostering a love of learning is inspiring, and this honor is a testament to her hard work.

Celebrating 75 Years of C.A. Johnson High School

Now, let’s talk about a very special milestone. This year marks the 75th anniversary of C.A. Johnson High School, which opened its doors back in 1949. To commemorate this momentous occasion, the school is inviting alumni to join in the homecoming fun on September 20 and 21.

On Friday, September 20, the festivities kick off with a 75th anniversary homecoming mixer in the school’s atrium from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.. Notable alumni like Charles F. Bolden Jr., former NASA administrator and astronaut, along with Dr. Thaddeus Bell, a well-regarded family practitioner, will be the keynote speakers. The event will also honor former NFL player and alumnus Mike Jones by hanging his jersey in the new gym!

The celebrations continue on Saturday, September 21, with a spirited homecoming game where the C.A. Johnson Hornets will clash with Allendale-Fairfax High School at Bolden Stadium at 12 p.m.. A lively homecoming parade will also take place at 10 a.m., leading to the stadium where tailgating will begin at 9 a.m..

Final Thoughts

It’s an exciting time to be in Columbia! Our students, teachers, and schools are achieving great things, and we couldn’t be prouder. Whether it’s through academic excellence, teaching excellence, or celebrating the past, the spirit of our community shines brightly. Let’s continue to cheer on our local heroes as they reach for the stars!