Three Lexington Two middle schools have been recognized with Palmetto Silver Awards from the SC Department of Education for academic achievement and student progress on State Report Cards.

Busbee Creative Arts Academy, Fulmer Middle School, and Northside Middle School scored average in student achievement and excellent in student progress, earning all three the recognition.

“We are very proud of the improvement that these schools are making,” said Dr. David McDonald, the district’s Chief Academic and Innovation Officer.  “Each has worked hard to ensure that their students are making progress toward the state’s rigorous goals. We look forward to continuing our work as a district to improve student achievement.”

The Palmetto Gold and Silver awards program was established by the South Carolina General Assembly as part of the Education Accountability Act (EAA) of 1998. The program recognizes  and rewards schools for attaining high levels of absolute performance, high rates of growth, and for making substantial progress in closing the achievement gap between groups of students, according to the Department of Education.

“Having three schools earn Palmetto Silver Awards is a strong reflection of the focused work, shared commitment, and continued progress happening across our district,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Angela Cooper.  “We are grateful for the dedication of our school leaders, teachers, staff, students, and families who make this kind of achievement possible.”

Below: Northside Middle School was one of three Lexington Two schools that received a Palmetto Silver Award for academic achievement and student progress. Shown here are Principal Dr. Tiffany Hall, far right, Assistant Principal Bryson Summers, far left, with a group of Northside teachers and students.