Eight Richland Two Magnet Schools Earn National Recertification

Richland School District Two continues to be an innovative national leader in magnet education. Eight of the district’s magnet schools and centers have earned national recertification after completing a rigorous, nine-month evaluation by Magnet Schools of America (MSA). 

Nationally Certified Schools provide high-quality, innovative learning opportunities that inspire academic achievement, promote diversity, and expand choice for families. Surpassing standard criteria, six of these schools also earned the elite Nationally Certified-Demonstration Magnet School designation. The honored schools and programs are:

 Nationally Certified-Demonstration Schools

• Bridge Creek Elementary: Medical, Engineering and Discovery through the Arts (MED)
• Center for Knowledge / Center for Knowledge North
• Kelly Mill Med Pro Middle, INC
• Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary: Academy for Civic Engagement (ACE)
• North Springs Elementary: STEMS
• Rice Creek Elementary: School of Academics, Innovation, and Leadership (SaiL)

Nationally Certified Schools

• Dent Middle: Fine Arts and Media Enrichment (FAME), The Learning Collaborative (TLC), TWO Academies
• Summit Parkway Middle: Academy of Exercise Physiology and Sports Medicine (Get Fit), STEM Institute of Design and Innovation (SIDI)

According to Barbara Turner, Richland Two’s Director of Magnet Programs, earning Certified-Demonstration status means these schools have surpassed the rigorous criteria set by MSA.

“Earning national recertification is no small feat. It's a nine-month process where schools must prove, with real evidence, that they're delivering on the promise of what a magnet program should provide. These eight schools and thirteen programs did exactly that, and it's a testament to the vision and dedication of every school leader, teacher, and staff member involved,” Turner said.

MSA will formally recognize the schools at its annual national conference in 2027.

UPCOMING CHOICE FAIRS & APPLICATION DETAILS
Families interested in exploring the district’s award-winning magnet programs are encouraged to attend the upcoming Choice Fairs:

• Elementary Magnet Programs:
  Monday, November 9, 2026
  Richland Two Institute of Innovation (R2i2)
  763 Fashion Drive, Columbia, SC 29229
• Middle and High School Magnet Programs:
  Wednesday, November 11, 2026
  Spring Valley High School
  120 Sparkleberry Lane, Columbia, SC 29229

How to Apply: Applications for Choice and Magnet Programs will be available at www.richland2.org/choice from November 9 through December 18, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.