LCSD 56 Holds Legislative Appreciation Dinner
November 16, 2021
Every parent, grandparent, teacher and principal knows it really does take a village to raise a child. This sentiment took on new meaning with the challenges schools, parents and students faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On, Thursday, November 11th, Laurens County School District 56 held their annual legislative dinner. The main purpose of the event was to recognize and thank the delegation for their support and commitment to providing the best educational experience for our youth.
Legislative members attending included Senator Danny Verdin, Representative Mark Willis and Representative Stewart Jones. Representative Doug Gilliam was unable to attend due to a Veteran’s Day event conflict.
In his remarks during a brief presentation, Superintendent Dr. O’Shields, noted that “education is far more active and engaging now.”
O’Shields thanked the legislatures for their continued support and particularly for their support of the need for more mental health workers within the schools.
District 56 is committed to providing the best educational experience for students and always looking for new opportunities to enhance the learning experience. O’Shields highlighted some interesting and maybe not so known facts about the overall success of their program.
Did you know?
- District 56 moved up 15 rankings on SchoolDigger.com to number 39. One of four districts with the most improvement.
- 2021 scholarship totals at CHS were $5,848,900
- Clinton Elementary School is a U.S. News and World Report “Best” Elementary School in South Carolina
- District 56 offers a tuition-free master’s program through USC-Upstate for teachers
- District 56 has not increased millage for the last nine years.
- More than 75% of middle and high school students participate in extra-curricular activities.
- After school programs are offered in every school in the district.
- Robotics is offered at the middle school and high school
- 32% of teachers are graduates of Clinton High School
- 75% of teachers have an advanced degree
- The Science Olympiad middle school team has won the State Championship 17 of the last 18 years
- The Science Olympiad high school team has won the State Championship 10 of the last 12 years
- CHS Girls Tennis competed in the Upper State Finals
- CHS Cross Country competed in the State Finals
- CHS Band competed in the State Finals – first time since 2014.
- CHS Football team is having their best season since 2007
Dr. O’Shields closed the evening by thanking the legislative delegation for their ongoing support and commitment to the children.
