Exciting Developments in Columbia: Upcoming Events and Educational Achievements

Exciting Times in Columbia: Upcoming Events and Record Achievements

Hey there, Columbia! The local education scene is buzzing with activity and some wonderful news that we can’t wait to share with you. Whether you’re a parent, student, or just someone invested in our community, there are plenty of reasons to stay engaged and informed.

School Board Candidate Forums Coming Up

First off, are you interested in the future of education in our area? You’re in luck! The Lexington-Richland Five Teacher Forum is hosting two School Board Candidate Forums to help you understand the candidates’ positions on key issues that affect our families and schools. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, October 1, at The Center for Advanced Technical Studies in Chapin, and Tuesday, October 8, at Irmo Middle School in Columbia. Both forums will run from 6:30 to 8 p.m.. This is a fantastic opportunity to voice your concerns and ask questions that matter to you!

New Teaching Fellows Program

In another exciting development, Columbia College and Newberry College have been selected to co-host the South Carolina Teaching Fellows program. This promising program will kick off its first cohort in fall 2025, aiming to cultivate the next generation of educators in our area. It’s a great chance for those passionate about teaching to learn and grow in a supportive environment.

Parent Pep Rallies to Support Student Success

Richland One families, gather ’round! If you’re looking to bolster your child’s success this school year, be sure to attend the upcoming Parent Pep Rallies. These lively events will occur on Wednesday, September 18, at Lower Richland High School, and Tuesday, September 17, at Eau Claire High School. Both gatherings are set for 5:30 to 7 p.m.. Come together, share insights, and get energized for the school year ahead!

Record Enrollment at CIU

Over at Columbia International University (CIU), the excitement is palpable. This fall, CIU has welcomed over 2,900 students enrolled in various programs including traditional undergraduate, graduate, and online degrees! This record-breaking enrollment speaks volumes about the university’s reputation and the growing interest in higher education within our community.

Celebrating High Achieving Students

Speaking of achievements, 21 students from Richland One have earned the prestigious College Board’s National Recognition Program award. This honor recognizes high-performing students from underrepresented communities. Hats off to these amazing students who have shown dedication and determination: you make us proud!

Healthy Schools Recognition

Great news doesn’t stop there! All 48 Richland One schools have been recognized as America’s Healthiest Schools for the 2023-2024 school year. This impressive achievement signifies the commitment of our schools to foster healthy environments for all students.

Transition to Teaching Initiative

For those in our community dreaming of becoming teachers, Richland One has teamed up with the University of South Carolina for an initiative called SC-DREAM. This program is meant to support individuals looking to switch careers and become elementary school teachers. Join one of three upcoming information sessions to learn how you can take part, whether virtually or in-person!

Recognizing Dedication in Education

Lastly, let’s applaud Susan Aplin, the instructional technology specialist in Lexington-Richland School District Five, for being accepted into the Google Innovator Academy! This is a tremendous honor that showcases the dedication to improving our schools through innovative technology.

All these happenings reflect the spirit and progress thriving in our community. There’s so much to celebrate and look forward to in Columbia, and we can’t wait to see how these events unfold and impact our schools and families. Let’s continue to support one another as we strive for a bright future together!