Magnet Schools and Centers

In 1991 Richland Two introduced its first magnet, The Learning Collaborative (TLC), a program for motivated and high-achieving students at Dent Middle School. Over the course of the past 30 years, the magnet offerings have grown to 37 unique and dynamic programs aimed at engaging all types of learners.

Richland Two has received numerous awards and distinctions from Magnet Schools of America (MSA) over the past decade. In more recent years, the district has been recognized with the following:

• (2023) Region IV Principal and Teacher of the Year - Dent Middle School Principal Tamala Ashford and Muller Road Middle School teacher Emily Eberlin 
• (2022) MSA National New and Emerging Merit School of Excellence-Sandlapper Computer Science Immersion
• (2020) MSA Top 20 National Magnet School of Excellence - Spring Valley High
• (2020) MSA Region IV Principal of the Year - Dr. Kappy Steck
• (2019) MSA National Magnet Principal of the Year - Dr. Sabrina Suber
• (2018) Co-host District for MSA Technical Assistance and Training Conference
• (2017)  Awarded $11.2 million Magnet Schools Assistance Program Grant
• 31 Nationally certified magnets including 15 are Demonstration magnet schools
• 38 MSA Merit Awards of Excellence and Distinction since 2010

 

For more information including frequently asked questions and a schedule of school information nights, please visit the Choice Program page. Watch a short informational video about each program on the Richland Two YouTube channel. Using the online Choice Application, parents may apply each January and May for placement that will take effect the following school year.

Elementary School Magnets

Richland Two has 14 elementary magnet programs and centers. The application process is held every December and May for the following school year.  Selections are made through a computer-generated lottery system based on application submission and school capacity.

These magnets are identified as National Demonstration Schools or Nationally Certified Magnet Schools.


Middle School Magnets

Richland Two has 12 middle school magnet programs. Nine are selective magnets and four are lottery-based. Students submitting an application for a selective program are chosen through a process that requires the review of grades, test scores, writing samples, teacher recommendations, an interview and application.  Selections for lottery programs are made through a computer-generated lottery system based on application submission and school capacity. The application process is held every December and May for the following school year.  


High School Magnets

Richland Two has 11 high school magnet programs. Eight are selective magnets and four are lottery-based. Students submitting an application for a selective program are chosen through a process that requires the review of grades, test scores, writing samples, teacher recommendations, an interview and application. Palmetto Center for the Arts requires an audition. Selections for lottery programs are made through a computer-generated lottery system based on application submission and school capacity. The application process is held every December and May for the following school year.  

These magnets are identified as National Demonstration Schools or Nationally Certified Magnet Schools.