Educators in Florence will welcome the return of over 16,000 students to classes on the first day of school (August 1st) and also host a visit from South Carolina Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver who plans to get a glimpse of new and innovative programs in Florence 1 Schools.
“We are excited about the beginning of the school year," said Dr. Richard O’Malley, Superintendent of Florence 1 Schools. “We are also delighted to welcome State Superintendent Weaver and to showcase our innovative programs and services that are designed to make a posSuperintendent’s Weaver’s first stop in Florence will be at Delmae Elementary School, which received the Palmetto’s Finest Elementary School award in 2024. Principal Roy Ann Jolley, along with the students and staff, are set to meet, greet, and provide a tour of the school as students head back to classes.
Following the school visit, Superintendent Weaver will get an overview of the newly developed K-12 Compass Academy which will begin serving students this year. “Compass Academy provides quality educational and therapeutic services for students whose mental health, behavioral and learning concerns hinder their ability to succeed in the traditional setting,” said Florence 1 Schools Assistant Superintendent for Exceptional Education Brian Denny. "Florence One Schools is the first school district in the state to operate an entire school/campus dedicated to meeting the mental health needs of the students while simultaneously meeting their educational needs as well,” added Krystle Graham, Florence 1 Schools Clinical Services CooState Superintendent Weaver will view the on-going transformation project in progress at the historic Poynor Building located at 301 South Dargan Street. “This collaborative project includes plans for a new initiative with a focus on healthcare and will target learning for students who have an interest in the medical field thanks to a $10 million grant from the Florence County Legislative Delegation,” said Dr. O’Malley. Known as the School of Innovation in Healthcare, it will include partnerships with McLeod, MUSC, and HopeHealth. At this stop Superintendent Weaver will meet with Donna Isgett, CEO of McLeod Health. Targeted dates for the School of Innovation in Healthcare are December 2025 for completion and January 2026 for the projected opening date.
Superintendent Weaver will visit yet another innovative program, the Farm at Florence 1 Schools, which serves as an epicenter for all things related to agriculture, sustainability, nutrition, (inclusive of a farm to table curriculum) and environmental studies in the greater Florence community.
Finally, the State Superintendent’s visit to Florence 1 Schools will culminate with a meeting of the Florence 1 Schools Board of Trustees, administrators, and teachers to discuss a proposed statewide cell phone policy. The South Carolina Department of Education is drafting a model policy for the State Board of Education’s meeting on August 13th.
For more information on Superintendent Ellen Weaver’s visit to Florence 1 Schools call 843-669-4141.
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