Sumter School District was formed on July 1, 2011, by consolidating Sumter School Districts Two and 17. Dr. Penelope Martin-Knox currently serves as the district’s superintendent. Sumter School District enrolls more than 16,500 students in grades preschool through 12 and employs over 3,000 staff members. The district encompasses 682 square miles and serves students at 14 elementary schools, six middle schools, a k-8 college preparatory academy, three high schools, one alternative learning program, an adult education program, and the Sumter Career and Technology Center.
Sumter School District helps all students develop the world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the SC Graduate by equipping them to be responsible, successful, and productive citizens in a global society. We focus on student achievement by ensuring challenging curricula and high expectations. Our recent reaccreditation by AdvancEd, the organization which conducts rigorous, on-site, external reviews of schools and school systems to ensure that all learners realize their full potential, is evidence of our academic success and continuous improvement.
Our academic programs address rigorous standards in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Research based best practices focus on problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Data is used to plan and implement instruction in order to differentiate instruction, monitor student progress, and set appropriate goals. A Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) uses data-based problem solving to integrate academic and behavioral instruction and intervention.
The district infuses 21st Century teaching by emphasizing Science, Math, Engineering, and Technology (STEM), the use of digital libraries, and the implementation of cutting edge technology. Our students have access to world languages, fine arts, advanced placement, college level dual enrollment, the International Baccalaureate program, and the Gifted and Talented program. Through our expansive Career and Technology Education (CATE) courses and numerous offerings at the Sumter Career and Technology Center, our students are developing career-ready skills. Sumter School District also produces well rounded students through robust athletic programs and award winning extracurricular clubs and organizations.
Our students develop life and career characteristics and soft skills through career exploration including exposure to employers via career fairs, shadowing, work cooperatives, and partnerships; efforts and events sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce and workforce readiness partners; and mentoring programs. Character development is encouraged and taught through character education, classroom guidance, small groups, and intervention programs. Sumter School District works diligently to ensure that every student graduates on time and is prepared for post-secondary education, is career ready, and has the foundation to become a productive citizen.
Our Schools
Our 24 elementary, middle and high schools provide educational services to a community that encompasses approximately 143,000 citizens. The district’s boundaries include the entire county of Sumter, which is 682 square miles. Our total enrollment is approximately 16,500 students.
There are currently 14 elementary schools in Sumter School District. Enrollment ranges from approximately 180 students at the smallest school to 893 at the largest school. Elementary schools are Alice Drive Elementary, Cherryvale Elementary, Crosswell Drive Elementary, High Hills Elementary, Kingsbury Elementary, Lemira Elementary, Manchester Elementary, Millwood Elementary, Oakland Primary, Pocalla Springs Elementary, Rafting Creek Elementary, Shaw Heights Elementary, Wilder Elementary and Willow Drive Elementary.
The school district presently has six middle schools which are Alice Drive Middle, Bates Middle, Chestnut Oaks Middle, Ebenezer Middle, Furman Middle, and Hillcrest Middle. Enrollment ranges from approximately 160 students at the smallest school to 910 at the largest school.
The three high schools in Sumter School District are Crestwood High, Lakewood High and Sumter High. Lakewood and Crestwood enroll approximately 1,100 students each, and Sumter enrolls approximately 2,300 students.
Students are also enrolled in R.E. Davis K-8 College Preparatory Academy and Sumter Career and Technology Center.
Nationally known for excellence, our schools have earned numerous prestigious recognitions. Our academic, fine arts and athletic programs are second to none, and our facilities are state of the art. Sumter School District remains committed to its mission of providing an intellectual, safe, and nurturing environment, which equips students to be responsible, successful, and productive citizens in a global society