Fairfield Central High School is committed to equipping every student with the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by fostering a culture rich in collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Our mission is to develop the whole child—intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically—ensuring that each Griffin is prepared to thrive in college, careers, and beyond.
In 2025, our school-wide theme is “Protect the Brand: Excel in Academics, Athletics, and the Arts.” This powerful call to action emphasizes the pride and legacy of excellence that defines the Fairfield Central experience. To “Protect the Brand” means every student, educator, coach, and leader commits daily to our core values and a standard of distinction in all endeavors. We remain grounded in Griffin P.R.I.D.E.—Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence—which shapes our school culture and supports student success.
Fairfield Central High School is proud to be an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) school, with WICOR strategies (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, Reading) embedded throughout classrooms. This year, our primary focus was on strengthening Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in partnership with Solution Tree. Our goal was to cultivate a shared belief among all staff that every student can learn at high levels, with “high levels” defined as mastery of grade-level standards or higher. To support this, our faculty engaged in targeted professional development and collaborative planning aimed at enhancing instructional practices and fostering a growth mindset. Additionally, teachers pursued personalized learning through micro-credentials, promoting innovation and reflection while helping students develop as critical thinkers in a blended, ever-evolving learning environment. This year, we celebrate the honor of our very own Principal, Dr. Tracie Swilley, being named the 2025 National Principal of the Year, a testament to her unwavering leadership, dedication to student growth, and commitment to school transformation.
Academic success continues to rise. In 2025, we proudly celebrated our eighth cohort of students earning an Associate’s Degree or General Studies Certificate from Midlands Technical College before receiving their high school diplomas. The demand for dual credit courses continues to grow, supported by strong partnerships with Midlands Technical College and the Fairfield Career and Technology Center. These opportunities allow students to pursue rigorous coursework and build transferable college and career skills.
Class of 2025 Highlights:
- 16 students earned a college degree or certificate before high school graduation.
- 80% of graduates were accepted into a 2- or 4-year college or university, including: Clemson University, University of South Carolina, Coastal Carolina, College of Charleston, Fayetteville State University, North Carolina Central University, South Carolina State University, Claflin University, and more.
- 102 graduates completed certifications at the Fairfield Career and Technology Center.
- 6 students enlisted in the Armed Forces.
- 2 Palmetto Fellows recipients.
- 15 students earned collegiate scholarships in athletics, band, and dance.
The arts continue to flourish at FCHS. Our Beta Club, National Honor Society, and Academic Challenge Teams offered students opportunities to collaborate and compete on local, state, and national levels. At the 2025 SC State Beta Club Convention, students earned awards in academics, fine arts, robotics, and leadership. Creativity is also evident in our visual and performing arts programs, which continue to gain recognition for innovation and excellence.
Athletics remain a vital part of our school identity. In 2025:
- All sports teams advanced to the playoffs.
- Our Football Team and Boys Basketball Team were crowned Region Champions.
- The Boys Track & Field Team earned their second consecutive 2A State Championship, with several individual state titles.
- Multiple coaches were honored as Coach of the Year, affirming the excellence and dedication of our athletic leadership.
These achievements are a direct reflection of our student-athletes’ perseverance and commitment to Protect the Brand in every arena.
Fairfield Central High School continues to rise. Our students are scholars, athletes, artists, and leaders, consistently displaying resilience, talent, and a desire to grow. Through our daily commitment to Quality Teaching and Learning, Every Day for Every Student, we will continue to inspire excellence and prepare every Griffin to soar.
Dr. Tracie Swilley, Principal
Ms. Marcia Harris-Montaque, SIC Chair
