Richland One’s Summer SOAR program named top 10 finalist for WhatWorksSC award
March 5, 2026
Richland One’s Summer SOAR program has been named a top 10 finalist 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.”
“Being named a finalist shines a light on the importance of summer learning and out-of-school time programs. Our Summer SOAR program has made summers matter by offering meaningful opportunities for academic growth, exploration and discovery during the intersession,” Dr. Traci Cooper, Richland One’s director of strategic partnerships and extended-day programs.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team and the incredible students and families we serve through Summer SOAR. We are truly honored by this acknowledgment.”
Out of the top 10 finalists, one overall winner and two finalists will be selected for the award. The winner and finalists will be announced in the coming weeks.
