Carver Elementary Magnet School has been named a 2025-26 Palmetto's Finest Award winner by SCASA, marking the third consecutive year a Florence 1 school has won the honor.

FLORENCE, SC / ACCESS Newswire / April 28, 2026 / Florence 1 Schools is proud to announce that Carver Elementary Magnet School has been named a winner of the prestigious 2025-26 Palmetto's Finest Award. This recognition, presented by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA), identifies Carver as one of the top-performing schools in the state of South Carolina.

The Palmetto's Finest Award is one of the most coveted honors in South Carolina education. Each year, the selection process involves a rigorous, months-long evaluation, including a comprehensive review of student achievement, instructional programs, professional learning communities, and school culture. Following an extensive application process and two separate onsite visits from a committee of veteran educators, Carver Elementary was selected for its excellence in instruction and its significant impact on the lives of its students and the community.

"This is the third year in a row that a school in Florence 1 has been recognized as one of the best in the state," said Florence 1 Schools Superintendent Dr. Richard O'Malley. "We believe that Florence 1 Schools is the best district in the state, and this award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff, students, and families at Carver Elementary."

Carver Elementary Magnet School joins a select group of winners for the 2025-26 school year, being recognized for its commitment to high academic standards and innovative learning environments. As a recipient of the award, the school will receive a "Palmetto's Finest School" banner to display on its campus, and Principal Karen Anderson will receive the Palmetto's Finest ring.

This achievement follows a tradition of excellence within the district, including recent Palmetto's Finest wins by Delmae Heights Elementary (2023-24) and John W. Moore Middle School (2022-23).

For more information about Carver Elementary Magnet School and its programs, please visit carver.f1s.org.

Florence 1 Schools is located in Florence, South Carolina, and serves approximately 14,000 students. The district is committed to providing a premier education that prepares all students for success in college and careers.

Media Contact: Ashley Watson
Phone: 843-413-4687
Email: marketing@f1s.org

SOURCE: Florence 1 Schools