Principals report test‑score targets, program expansions and enrollment shifts across district schools

Multiple principals reported student outcome goals, programmatic initiatives and enrollment updates during the board meeting.

Mr. Fry, principal of Heway High School and Himway Middle School, outlined academic targets for the 2025–26 year including higher pass‑rate goals on state EOC exams and plans for weekly data meetings, instructional coaching and targeted interventions. He noted Himway Middle moved from a CSI (comprehensive support and improvement) to an ATSI (additional targeted support and intervention) designation based on subgroup performance and said the school expects to exit the ATSI designation within three years if trends hold.

The Hope Academy principal described the alternative school's model and supports: Hope Academy serves grades 6–12 in six portable units behind King Street High West Campus, uses Edmentum and Canvas courseware, and reported that 76 students have been served since August with 37 currently enrolled; 31 students have successfully transitioned back to their zone schools. The principal outlined wraparound services including two behavioral health counselors, Department of Juvenile Justice group sessions and an alcohol and drug counselor.

Kenneth Garden Leadership Academy’s principal highlighted academic improvements, reductions in the number of students significantly below grade level, expanded clubs and fine‑arts programming, and a $10,000 SCDE arts enhancement grant supporting music and visual arts activities. The principal also described a monthly Parent Academy designed to help caregivers support grade‑level work at home.

Board members asked questions about designations, enrollment, support staffing and event logistics; principals provided clarifying details about staffing, intervention schedules, and upcoming events. Several schools and staff were also recognized for presentations and awards at the South Carolina School Boards Association conference.