Sterling School is helping all students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate within a safe, supportive, and academically challenging environment. The 2024–2025 school year was a remarkable chapter in our school’s story—marked by student growth, instructional innovation, and continued collaboration among our staff, families, and community partners. Together, we provide meaningful educational experiences that prepare our students to thrive—both in the classroom and beyond.
At Sterling School, we serve a unique and diverse community through the integration of the Sterling elementary program and the Charles Townes Center (CTC) for Gifted and Talented students in grades 3–8. United by a shared educational philosophy, we emphasize creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking through real-world learning and interdisciplinary instruction. Through arts integration, STEM opportunities, project-based learning, and a Whole Child approach, we strive to foster both academic excellence and a strong sense of belonging.
Our school’s excellence continues to be affirmed at the state and national levels. For the fourth consecutive year, Sterling School received an “Excellent” state report card rating at both the elementary and middle school levels. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report ranked Sterling as the #1 middle school and #8 elementary school (up from #16) in South Carolina. These honors underscore our commitment to student achievement, staff excellence, and equitable access to high-quality learning experiences.
Sterling students consistently excel across disciplines. This year, 40 students achieved perfect scores on at least one section of SC READY. Our MathCounts team placed 3rd in the state team round, and our elementary and middle school Battle of the Books teams achieved 2nd and 1st place in the district, respectively. In the performing arts, both our band and strings programs earned Outstanding Performance Awards, and our band program was selected to participate in an innovative music collaboration with the Sigal Music Museum.
Our dedicated faculty continued to shine, both in and beyond the classroom. Mrs. Ashleigh Ledford (Band/Music) was named our 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year, and Mr. Todd Whittaker (Middle School Math) received the WYFF Golden Apple Award. Dr. David Bernardy (4th Grade Sterling) was honored as a Kate Huff History Scholar by Furman University. Faculty members also shared their expertise at state and national conferences, including NCTE, PSLA, PSSCA, SCCTE, and SCASL.
Sterling School continues to benefit from strong family and community engagement. This year, our School Improvement Council (SIC) launched several new initiatives, including the Buddy Family Program, the Sterling/CTC Quick Reference Guide, and a Middle School Choice Guide. The Buddy Family Program matched new families with returning ones to help ease transitions, answer questions, and foster early connections across both Sterling and CTC. This thoughtful outreach helped build community and ensure all families felt welcomed and supported from the start.
Our PTA provided vital support throughout the year, awarding $10,000 in teacher grants and contributing over $19,000 toward schoolwide needs, including 5th Grade Day, the school musical, Chromebook charging stations, outdoor upgrades, and spirit wear for all students and staff. In addition to funding, PTA volunteers played a key role in events like the Book Fair, Veterans Day program, and Thanksgiving lunch, and supported daily school operations. Their generosity and dedication significantly enhanced our learning environment and strengthened our sense of community.
Sterling School continues to fulfill its mission of preparing students for “tomorrow’s world” through a collaborative, student-centered approach that values the whole child. We are deeply grateful to our families, faculty, and community members for their ongoing partnership and commitment. As we look ahead, we remain inspired by what we’ve accomplished and excited for what’s to come.
Dr. Josh Patterson, Principal
Chloe McGoogin, SIC Chair
