Laurens County School District 56 Responds to Release of 2025–2026 State School Report Cards, Reaffirms Commitment to Growth and Academic Support

Laurens County School District 56 announced the public release of the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) 2025–2026 State School Report Cards. The official annual report card metrics reflect student academic performance, school climate, student progress, graduation rate, and college and career readiness indicators across the district’s schools.

In official ratings, Clinton High School, Clinton Middle School, and Eastside Elementary School achieved overall ratings of “Average,” while Clinton Elementary School and Joanna-Woodson Elementary School earned overall ratings of “Below Average.” We are especially proud of these schools for their work in the following areas:

• Clinton High School: Good in Academic Achievement; Good in College and Career

Readiness; Good in School Climate

• Clinton Middle School: Excellent in School Climate
• Eastside Elementary School: Good in Academic Achievement and Excellent in School Climate

“Our state report card results provide us with clear data on where we are succeeding and where we must focus our resources to better serve our students,” said Dr. David O’Shields, Superintendent of Laurens County School District 56. “While we celebrate areas of steady progress, we recognize the immediate need to elevate student outcomes, particularly in foundational reading and math across our elementary campuses.”

To address key challenge areas and accelerate growth across all schools, District 56 has put into place proactive measures and target interventions for the current academic year:

• Targeted Academic Support & Instructional Interventionists: The district continues to expand student support through dedicated Instructional Interventionists, delivering targeted interventions in small-group settings to strengthen foundational skill sets.

• Continuous Improvement Committees: District and school leadership teams have formed committees to analyze subgroup performance data and refine instruction to ensure equitable progress for every learner.

• Focus on Student Growth & Engagement: Through enhanced classroom support, structured instructional frameworks, and regular progress monitoring, the district remains committed to driving both student achievement and positive school environments.

“District 56 remains deeply committed to our mission of equipping students with world-class knowledge, skills, and core values,” added Dr. O’Shields. “Through strong partnerships with our teachers, parents, and community stakeholders, we will continue working diligently to ensure every school in our district achieves excellence.”