Richland One’s Summer SOAR program named finalist for WhatWorksSC award

Richland One’s Summer SOAR program has been named one of two finalists for the 2026 Dick and Tunky Riley WhatWorksSC Award, presented by The Riley Institution at Furman University. 

The award, named after former U.S. Secretary of Education and two-term South Carolina governor Dick Riley and his late wife, Tunky Riley, is presented to an “outstanding evidence-based program that is positively impacting public education in South Carolina.” 

Richland One’s Summer SOAR offers programs and activities for students at all grade levels during the summer. The goal of Summer SOAR is to prevent learning loss during the summer, which is often referred to as the “summer slide.” 

“We extend our sincere appreciation to The Riley Institute and the WhatWorksSC team for this meaningful recognition. Being selected as a WhatWorksSC Award finalist places us among a distinguished group of schools, districts and partners who share a commitment to improving student outcomes across our state. This affirms our ongoing commitment to high quality programs and enrichment opportunities that encourage student exploration and discovery during summer break,” said Dr. Traci Cooper, Richland One’s director of strategic partnerships and extended-day programs. 

As part of the award, Richland One’s Summer SOAR program will receive a $1,000 cash grant, a promotional video produced by SCETV and consulting services from The Riley Institution’s research and evaluation team.

The program will be recognized during the annual WhatWorksSC Award celebration April 30 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. 

To register your children for this year’s Summer SOAR programs and camps, visit www.richlandone.org/SOAR.