Richland Two Magnet Schools earn National Recognition

January 21, 2025

Magnet Schools of America has recognized 17 Richland School District Two schools, with 11 earning National Merit Schools of Excellence awards and six receiving Merit Schools of Distinction honors.

School representatives will be recognized and receive a National Merit School of Excellence Award on behalf of the school during an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s National Conference April 7-10, 2025, in Nashville.

Merit Schools of Excellence

  • Forest Lake NASA/Elementary Learning Collaborative (eLC)
  • Kelly Mill INC
  • L.W. Conder Integrated Arts
  • Leadership Academy at E.L. Wright (LAW)
  • STEMS at North Springs
  • Dual Language Immersion at Polo Road
  • Ridge View Med Pro, Institute for Health Sciences, and Scholar’s Academy for Business and Law
  • Spring Valley Discovery and Explorations
  • Summit Parkway Academy of Exercise Physiology & Sports Medicine, STEM Institute for Design and Innovation (SIDI)
  • Academy for Civic Engagement (ACE) at Lonnie B. Nelson
  • Leadership Academy at Muller Road (LAM)

Merit Schools of Distinction

  • Fine Arts and Media Enrichment (FAME) at Dent
  • Kelly Mill Med Pro
  • Longleaf Engineering and Arts Program (LEAP)
  • Medical, Engineering, and Discovery through the Arts (MED) at Bridge Creek
  • Rice Creek School of Academics, Innovation, and Leadership (SAiL)
  • Sandlapper Computer Science Immersion

Choice including magnet programs are central to Richland Two’s educational approach as reflected in the participation of roughly half of the district’s student population. The programs span diverse fields including health sciences, performing arts, foreign language immersion, mass media, journalism, and technology. These specialized programs challenge students while developing their individual talents and interests, preparing them for future success.

“This extraordinary recognition from Magnet Schools of America reflects the innovative spirit and educational excellence that defines Richland School District Two,” said Superintendent. Dr. Kim D. Moore. “These programs empower our students to discover their passions while achieving academic excellence and preparing them for success in an ever-evolving world. I’m incredibly proud of our educators, students, and staff who make these outstanding programs possible.”

Schools of Excellence are eligible to receive monetary awards and are eligible to be named the nation’s top Elementary, Secondary, or New & Emerging Magnet School. One of the Schools of Excellence will also be selected to win $5,000 and the Dr. Ronald P. Simpson Distinguished Merit Award, which is considered the most prestigious magnet school award in the nation.