Intentional Efforts Guided Improved Outcomes for CCSD
Data from the 2024-25 state assessments, released by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE), show Cherokee County School District has made gains in all core content areas across many schools. The data also shows promise for continued growth this school year.
All CCSD elementary and middle schools increased ELA scores from 2023-24 to 2024-25. In grades 3–8, students exceeded pre-COVID levels and are closing in on the state average. Three schools surpassed the state average of 60.2%: Corinth Elementary (72.19%), Grassy Pond Elementary (61.95%), and Northwest Elementary (60.53%). Four schools gained 10% in ELA: Ewing Middle, BD Lee Elementary, Blacksburg Elementary, and Corinth Elementary. Limestone Central Elementary posted a 16% increase in ELA achievement.
Math scores also rose across grades 3–8. Corinth Elementary exceeded the state average of 68.5%, while Luther Vaughan, BD Lee, and Northwest Elementary each improved by five or more points. Corinth also topped the state in Science at 50%.
Both CCSD high schools improved in core subjects, especially Biology and U.S. History. At Blacksburg High, scores rose in English II, Biology, and U.S. History, with History showing notable growth. Gaffney High also boosted Biology and U.S. History scores.
Dr. Andre Dukes, Assistant Superintendent of Academics, credited these gains to intentional instructional strategies: “Over the past year, we have focused on high-quality teaching and learning in every classroom, while strengthening leadership capacity among teachers and administrators.” CCSD continues to emphasize Teacher Clarity, data analysis, and collaborative planning within Professional Learning Communities.
Schools will continue using Visible Learning and AVID Strategies while following district curriculum maps and pacing guides for consistency. Instructional coaches now serve every school, and all elementary schools have reading coaches. Coaches are trained in Student-Centered Coaching to keep outcomes student-focused. Two cohorts of math teachers, coaches, and administrators engaged in Evidence-Informed Math Professional Development last spring; a third cohort begins this fall.
New programs for 2025–26 include Data Conferences (Fall, Winter, Spring) to review testing and benchmark data and plan next steps. Leaders prepared for these during the district’s Summer Leadership Conference. The new LEAD Cohort will strengthen teacher leadership in every school, while the SCDE will provide targeted math support for grades 5 and 8.
Differentiated instruction will address all students’ needs, with special focus on smaller groups to improve opportunities for success. Students with disabilities, diverse backgrounds, low-income status, or other support needs will be served through a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) developed by school teams and guided by the district’s MTSS Coordinator.
Summarizing the results, Dr. Dukes said: “Cherokee County is a great place with tremendous opportunity. Every district employee plays a vital role in the success of every student, every day. Transformation is underway for our learners, as shown by these results. Through our realignment of high-quality instructional materials and our commitment to consistency in instructional practices, we are ensuring that Every Student, Every Day receives the education they deserve.”
Congratulations to this school for setting a high standard and inspiring us all with their passion and results. We look forward to seeing the continued growth and achievements throughout the school year!
