Orangeburg County’s newly consolidated school district offers incredible opportunities for students to experience the benefits that a combined district with collaborative leadership and focused resources has to offer.
In the summer of 2020, Orangeburg’s Board of Trustees announced the district’s superintendent, Dr. Shawn Foster, a demonstrated leader in school transformation, to lead its 32 schools and position OCSD as a district of choice, recognized for innovation and high achievement.
Dr. Foster introduced a vision for Orangeburg County School District— “Together, our goal is to push the boundaries of public education and create an innovative learning environment that is highly relevant for ALL students. We will improve student success and ensure the school district systems and processes function effectively and efficiently. All this, while supporting the mission to use innovative ideas and practices to prepare students to become productive members of society.”
Orangeburg students each have their own computer or tablet to supplement their learning. Commonly known as a one-to-one initiative, students in Orangeburg use their devices every day while they’re learning in the classroom, as well as continuing that access and virtual learning when they leave the building.
Student and staff safety is at the forefront of all OCSD decisions, from health protocols, school security or resource officers, and visitor background screenings, to monitored door access points and camera systems.
Orangeburg’s 1,972 teachers and staff members are among the most dedicated and well-educated throughout the state, with 4% having earned a doctorate, 36% with a masters, and 21% with a bachelor’s degree.
The communities surrounding Orangeburg are committed to the success of their newly-combined school system and the social, emotional wellbeing of its children. From partnerships with The Filling Station/Into The Mouths of Babes to ensure appropriate nutrition for students on extended breaks and weekends, to mentoring and after school support through varied faith-based organizations, and a collaboration with Orangeburg-Calhoun Tech and the business community for authentic work-based learning opportunities, OCSD is committed to engaging the community in support of its children.
OCSD is home to one of just two schools throughout the nation to receive a School of Promise Award from the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching. In addition, Orangeburg has three technical schools offering varied career-specific curricula for more technical-focused interests.
To help our scholars jump-start the college transition, OCSD students in high school have access to early college programs— partnerships with three local universities and technical schools to provide dual-enrollment college credit for 100-level courses. These experiences enable Orangeburg County’s young adults to have exposure to the college experience, while being supported in their high schools.
OCSD aims to encourage a comprehensive student experience through participation in sports, clubs and other activities. Scholars in elementary, middle, and high school have the opportunity to participate in robotics and student news programs, while high school students plan and produce sports programming as part of their regular activities at school.
With a commitment to student success, OCSD’s students, staff and community stakeholders are determined to propel our school district forward and to achieve unmatched future success by working together.
We Are One.
