Our school is helping all students develop world class skills and life and career characteristics of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by educating and offering a multitude of academic opportunities and extracurricular activities that allow our students to expand their creativity, work collaboratively, and communicate as leaders. We provide a challenging program of study to encourage lifelong academic and applied learning and to graduate students prepared to meet the challenge of a rapidly changing and diverse global society.
Although no entrance test is required, Wando consistently proves that a large, public, non-magnet high school serving a diverse population can produce outstanding results. Wando offers over 250 course selections with advanced courses in core academics, four world languages, JROTC, and extensive Career and Technology courses. The expansive opportunities in the arts allow our students to excel in photography, art, orchestra, drama, band, chorus, and dance where they earn state and national honors. We consider high school graduation an important step for our students but not the final goal. Through individualized planning, each graduate is expected to leave Wando with World Class Knowledge and World Class Skills with a viable plan for his/her future educational and career goals. We are committed to continuous school improvement and use research-based best practices as our guide. Raising the academic bar for all students and providing academic support for those who struggle is crucial to our success as a school. Our faculty and staff share instructional best practices and work in curriculum teams. Career-related Schools of Study, Ninth Grade Academy, and Advisor-Advisee Program provide opportunities for personal connections and help our students see the purpose and relevance of their work here.
Wando High School’s Class of 2019 left a legacy of high achievement in academics, athletics, and student activities. Ninety-three percent of the graduates plan to continue their education at the post-secondary level and were awarded more than $29.6 million in scholarships. The average GPA of the Class of 2019 was 3.70 and Wando seniors earned on average 31 credits. Our students continue to excel in college-level work with both Advanced Placement and Dual Credit courses. Wando’s Advanced Placement Academy continues to flourish with more 520 members. One senior student received an appointment to the U. S. Merchant Marine Academy.
For the second year in a row, Wando High School was among a select group of high schools honored as a Project Lead The Way Distinguished High School. We were the only high school in South Carolina to receive this award for the 2018-2019 school year. The Wando Athletic Program continued its rich history of excellence by winning three State Championships, 12 Region Championships, and six Lower State Championships. Eighty-eight senior athletes were recognized as Scholar Athletes by the South Carolina High School League. Six Wando band students were named to the Honor Band of America and one orchestra student was named to the Honor Orchestra of America. The Wando High School Marching Band placed sixth in the 2018 Bands of America competition and received two Advocacy in Action Awards. Tribal Tribune, the school newspaper, received a Pacemaker, the high school equivalent to a Pulitzer Prize and the Legend was named Best Yearbook in South Carolina by the South Carolina Scholastic Press Association. The Wando AP Comparative Government class won the 2018-2019 We the People State Championship earning five out of six best unit awards on their way to victory.
Throughout the year, our students raise funds, collect resources, and serve alongside community members at various charities and events in support of those in need. Our students are encouraged to be involved in Wando life and “Walk the Warrior Way”, with integrity, compassion, and personal responsibility.
Our dedicated faculty and staff, trained in Capturing Kids’ Hearts, work to ensure that all students feel connected and continue to develop Life and Career Characteristics throughout their high school career. We are blessed with a high level of parental and community involvement. The outstanding support provided by the Town of Mount Pleasant is a critical factor in our success.
Sherry M. Eppelsheimer, Principal
Rebecca Imholz, SIC Chair