Columbia Schools Celebrate Student Achievements and Milestones

Exciting Achievements and Celebrations in Columbia’s Schools

Columbia, SC is buzzing with excitement as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our local students and schools. It’s so rewarding to see our community shine, and this week is full of fantastic news that deserves to be shared!

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Recognized

First off, let’s give a round of applause to the talented semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program! These high-achieving students have shown immense dedication and hard work. From Dreher High School, we have Spencer S. Bush, Robert L. Leonardi, Jiale Liu, and Beckham J. O’Neill. A.C. Flora High School boasts two exceptional students, William M. Beasley and Brooks J. Ransom.

Meanwhile, Hammond School is represented by Aspen M. Brooks, Nicholas D. Glenn, Wyatt A. Joye, Zamam B. Lone, Theodore E. Lumpkin, and Michael B. Rice. Not to be outdone, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School contributes Camrynn Beck, Joseph Hauk, and Mary Ruskell to the list.

Other notable mentions include Margaret B. Hamberg from Irmo High School, Nicole Botrous from Cardinal Newman High School, and Joseph Dennison from South Carolina Connections Academy. Last but not least, we have an impressive number of semifinalists from Spring Valley High School including Henry S. Berg, Max O. Berg, and many more! Congratulations to all the semifinalists for making it to this prestigious list!

Perfect SC READY Test Scores

Not only do we have bright futures ahead in scholarships, but we also have some amazing test results to celebrate. A whopping 57 students from Lexington-Richland School District Five scored a perfect score on the SC READY tests during the 2023-2024 school year! Students like Jacob Abdulrahman, Majd Anay, and Olivia Box are among those shining stars. Their dedication and hard work are definitely paying off, and we couldn’t be prouder!

Teacher of the Year

In more fantastic news, Rona Stuart, a social studies teacher at Spring Valley High School, has been named the 2024-2025 District Teacher of the Year for Richland School District Two. This recognition highlights Rona’s commitment to her students and her passion for teaching. What an inspiring role model for both current and future educators!

America’s Healthiest Schools

We are also thrilled to announce that Beechwood Middle School and Midway Elementary School have been recognized among America’s Healthiest Schools for the 2024-25 school year. These schools exemplify commitment to student wellness and academic achievement.

C.A. Johnson High School Celebrates 75 Years!

Mark your calendars because C.A. Johnson High School is turning 75! Yes, the school has been a staple in our community since opening its doors in 1949. Alumni are invited to celebrate during the homecoming events happening on September 20 and 21.

Friday night kicks off with a 75th anniversary homecoming mixer in the school’s atrium from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Featuring keynote speakers like former NASA administrator Charles F. Bolden Jr. and family physician Dr. Thaddeus Bell, this is sure to be an inspiring evening. The school will also honor former NFL player and alumnus Mike Jones by hanging his jersey in the new gym.

On Saturday, the C.A. Johnson Hornets football team takes on Allendale-Fairfax High School during the homecoming game set for 12 p.m. Make sure to arrive early for the homecoming parade at 10 a.m. which will wind its way from C.A. Johnson to Bolden Stadium. Tailgating is set to kick off at 9 a.m. right at the school!

Columbia, it’s a wonderful time to be proud of our schools and students. Let’s continue to support each other in all these fantastic endeavors!