Dear D5 Family,
Every student who walks across a graduation stage represents a story of perseverance, growth, determination, and achievement. Behind each diploma are countless hours of hard work, a teacher’s encouragement, a family’s support, and a community’s commitment to the promise of every child. That is why I am proud to share an extraordinary milestone: Lexington-Richland School District Five has achieved its highest graduation rate in 24 years.
This accomplishment of a 91.8% graduation rate is more than a number. It is a reflection of the collective effort of our students, educators, families, and community partners who work together each day to help our young people reach their full potential. It represents students who overcame obstacles, teachers who refused to give up, counselors who provided guidance, administrators who developed meaningful support, and families who continued to encourage their children along the way.
To our graduates, congratulations. You have demonstrated that perseverance matters and that hard work can open doors to new opportunities. Whether you plan to attend college, enter the workforce, pursue technical training, serve in the military, or explore another pathway, your future holds tremendous possibilities. We are proud of what you have accomplished and excited to see the difference you will make in the world. This accomplishment means so much for our community.
South Carolina is experiencing significant demographic shifts. According to SC Revenue and Fiscal Affairs, by 2030, our state will have more citizens aged 65 and older than children under 18. These changes affect the future of the workforce and the tax base of our state. Therefore, every student must graduate prepared to succeed in this ever-changing economic environment.
We know college is not the only path to a rewarding career. As a result, our district has invested in 17 Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, including exciting new offerings in drone technology and HVAC systems. Through partnerships with local industry leaders, the Center for Advanced Technical Studies provides our students with hands-on experience using real-world equipment and apprenticeship opportunities.
This milestone also reflects our teachers’ and staff’s dedication. Every day, they create learning environments that challenge, support, and encourage students to succeed. From the classroom to the counseling office, from career and technical education programs to individualized student support, our employees work tirelessly to ensure students have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to graduate prepared for what comes next. Their commitment to student success is making a meaningful difference.
We are equally grateful to our parents, guardians, and families. Your partnership, encouragement and advocacy are essential to student achievement. Thank you for trusting us with your children and for working alongside our schools to help them navigate challenges, discover their strengths and pursue their goals. We also appreciate our community partners, businesses and organizations that invest in our students and help connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities.
While we celebrate this historic achievement, we recognize that our work is not finished. A high graduation rate is an important measure of progress, but our ultimate responsibility is to ensure that every student graduates with the preparation, confidence, and opportunities needed to thrive after high school. We will continue to focus on academic excellence, student engagement, meaningful relationships, and the resources necessary to support every learner.
We invite families to think about which postsecondary option is best for their child so our schools can provide targeted support. We appreciate our business and community partners that provide mentorship opportunities, apprenticeships, internships, and equipment donations that can strengthen our career pathways and help our students gain real-world experience. Together, we can ensure our graduates are equipped for success.
Our highest graduation rate in 24 years is a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose. It demonstrates our schools’ strength and our students’ determination, and it inspires us to keep reaching higher.
Thank you for being part of the Lexington-Richland Five family. Together, we are building a future in which every student has the opportunity to succeed, every achievement is celebrated, and every graduate is prepared to make a difference. This is the heart of our vision of loving and growing every student.
Akil E. Ross, Sr.
Superintendent
Lexington-Richland School District Five
