South Carolina releases annual report card showing gains across public schools

South Carolina schools have shown improvement in academic achievement and student progress, according to the 2025 South Carolina School Report Cards released by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) and the South Carolina Education Oversight Committee (EOC). The report cards, presented at Annie Burnside Elementary School in Richland School District One, evaluate schools on indicators such as academic achievement, student progress, college and career readiness, and school climate.

The number of schools rated ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’ increased from 549 last year to 623 this year. The ratings are intended to give families, educators, and community members a clear understanding of how their local schools are performing. They also help guide efforts toward ensuring that all students graduate ready for college, careers, or military service by 2030.

For elementary schools, nearly half received a rating of Good or better. More than a quarter improved their overall rating compared to last year. The proportion of elementary schools earning Good or better in Academic Achievement rose by 3%, while those rated similarly in Student Progress increased by 7%.

Among middle schools, about one-third improved their overall ratings since last year. The percentage achieving Good or better for Student Progress jumped from 22% in 2024 to 40% in 2025.

High schools also reported gains. The state’s on-time graduation rate reached a ten-year high at 86.7%. Additionally, the share of high schools rated Good or better for College/Career Readiness climbed from 63% last year to 75% this year.

Annie Burnside Elementary was highlighted as an example of improvement. The school earned an Excellent overall rating for the current school year after being rated Average previously. It is part of the EOC’s Beating the Odds Investigative Study Schools—high-poverty institutions demonstrating strong academic results. At Annie Burnside Elementary, where 83% of students are considered Pupils in Poverty, the Student Progress indicator improved from Average to Excellent.

Despite these advances, only about three-quarters (75.1%) of students are considered career or college ready upon graduation. Efforts continue to close the gap between graduation rates and post-secondary readiness.

A new tiered stackable credential system has been approved in South Carolina to align high school credentials more closely with employability needs. Business and industry leaders will play a key role in shaping this list of credentials. Full implementation is expected by the 2027-2028 school year.

“These report cards tell a clear story: South Carolina students and educators are rolling up their sleeves and getting results,” said State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver. “From the Lowcountry to the Upstate, we’re proving that when teachers are empowered, communities are engaged, and high expectations meet strong support students soar. The South Carolina Surge is growing, and together—from the classroom to the Statehouse—we’re building the foundation for every child to reach their God-given potential. This progress is fuel in the tank: energy and inspiration to drive us forward in the vital work still ahead.”

“Our state report cards show that South Carolina’s on-time graduation rate for high school students remains high at 86.7%. This is great news, but we also acknowledge the need for an increase in students who are college and career ready,” said Education Oversight Committee Chair April Allen. “With this goal in mind, we are happy to acknowledge the recent approval of the SC tiered credential system. We expect this new system will better prepare our high school students for successful career paths as it is implemented in the upcoming years.”

“This ‘Excellent’ rating belongs to our entire Annie Burnside family. It reflects the hard work of our students, the dedication of our teachers, the support from the community, and their belief in what’s possible,” said Dr. Janet Campbell, principal of Annie Burnside Elementary School. “Our school made a commitment to work together, focus on growth, and hold high expectations for every child. Seeing our students rise to the challenge has been incredibly rewarding.”

“What is happening at Annie Burnside proves that success is possible when a school community shares a clear vision and works together to make it real,” said Dr. Todd Walker, Superintendent of Richland School District One. “I am incredibly proud of Dr. Campbell, her dedicated staff, and their students, and I am confident that the same determination and collaboration can transform every school in Richland One moving forward.” 

More information about individual school performance can be found at www.screportcards.com.