Mount Pleasant school named ‘Palmetto’s Finest’

CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A middle school in Mount Pleasant has earned state-wide recognition after being named a “Palmetto’s Finest School” by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators.

Thomas C. Cario Middle School is one of only six schools in the Charleston County School District to receive the award, which recognizes its innovative and educational programs.

Academically, students have recorded seven straight years of improved growth in English Language Arts, and they have achieved their highest proficiency averages on the state ELA and Math tests for three consecutive years.

“Cario has received superior ratings for its music programs from both the South Carolina Band Directors Association and the Carowinds Festival of Music, maintains a strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program, and consistently does well in middle school athletics in Charleston County and the Tri-County region,” the school district said in its announcement.

Principal Bryan Coleman said they are “incredibly honored and humbled” to be recognized as Palmetto’s Finest middle school.

“At the core of everything we do is the power of ‘WE’ – our strong belief in the value of community and collective effort. This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the dedication and partnership of our entire school family – students, staff, parents, and local businesses,” Coleman said. “It’s truly inspiring to see how the hard work, innovation, support, and collaboration of all our stakeholders have come together to earn this distinguished honor.” 

Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School, in 2002, was the last school in the district to receive this award.