Wando, our award-winning school, helps 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. We provide a challenging program of study to encourage critical and creative thinking, 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 Skills and 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 are 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 an Advisor-Advisee Program provide opportunities for personal connections and allow our students see the purpose and relevance of their work here.
Wando High School's Class of 2018 left a legacy of high achievement in academics, athletics, and student activities. Ninety-five percent of the graduates plan to continue their education at the post-secondary level and were awarded more than $26.2 million in scholarships. The average GPA of the Class of 2018 was 3.63 and Wando seniors earned on average 31 credits. Our students excel in college-level work with both Advanced Placement and Dual Credit courses. Wando's Advanced Placement Academy continues to flourish with 520 members. Five senior students received appointments to three of the U. S. Military Academies: three to the U. S. Air Force Academy, one to the U. S. Coast Guard Academy and one to the U. S. Military Academy at West Point. The Wando athletic program exemplifies a rich history of excellence by winning the SCAAA Carlisle Cup for the fifth straight year, along with six State Championships, 12 Region Championships, and three Lower State Championships. One hundred twelve senior athletes were recognized as Scholar Athletes by the South Carolina High School League. At the Southeastern Scholastic Art Competition, Wando students earned three gold and eight silver keys. The Wando High School Marching Band won their 11th State Marching Band Competition and placed second at the Bands of America Super Regionals.
Tribal Tribune, the school newspaper, received an All-Southern rating and the Scroggins Mark of Distinction in South Carolina for the top newspaper in South Carolina and the Legend was named Best Yearbook in South Carolina. Two teams of Wando Economics students competed in the statewide economics competition and won first and second place in the state competition while finishing 15th in the nation. Throughout the year, our students raise funds, collect resources, and serve alongside community members at various 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 skills such as critical thinking and creativity 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 an integral factor in our success.
Sherry M. Eppelsheimer, Principal
Rebecca lmholz, SIC Chair
