IRMO, S.C. — May 7, 2025 — Midlands Technical College recognized eleven exceptional students from Lexington-Richland School District Five for earning the General Studies Academic Certificate through the college’s Dual Enrollment Program. These high-achieving students — representing Chapin High School, Dutch Fork High School, and Spring Hill High School — have demonstrated remarkable commitment to academics by completing 18 credit hours of college-level coursework.
The General Studies Academic Certificate includes courses in English, mathematics, social sciences, and the humanities, designed to give students a strong foundation in general education and prepare them for the rigors of higher education. The certificate not only showcases their academic discipline, but also brings real financial savings — an estimated $3,600 in tuition costs collectively.
“These students have gone above and beyond the typical high school experience,” said Dr. Tim Swick, Dual Enrollment Program Lead at School District Five. “Their success exemplifies the power of dual enrollment programs to create meaningful college and career pathways.”
“With the addition of dual enrollment courses, School District Five is able to enhance the overall academic experience for our students, provide transitional support to a college setting, and ultimately lay the groundwork for future success,” added Neshunda Walters, Director of Secondary Education.
School District Five offers dual enrollment programs that allow students to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously. These college-level courses are facilitated on the district’s campuses, and students can choose between stand-alone course enrollment or certificate enrollment options. In South Carolina, dual enrollment classes are awarded one quality point above base level on the Uniform Grading Scale, giving students an additional academic advantage.
The following students were recognized for their achievement:
Chapin High School
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Marissa Cannon
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Grace Hallowell
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Jonah Hawkinson
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Kaylee Mixon
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Savannah Starnes
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Audrey Thomas
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Josie Weathersbee
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Brayden Wells
Dutch Fork High School
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Hailey Richburg
Spring Hill High School
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Lana Elliott
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Logan Wherrell
Photo Credit:
Pictured (Left to Right) — Chanda Booker (Midlands Tech), Spencer Griffin (Midlands Tech), Lana Elliott (Spring Hill HS), Josie Weathersbee (Chapin HS), Logan Wherrell (Spring Hill HS), Marissa Cannon (Chapin HS), Brayden Wells (Chapin HS), Savannah Starnes (Chapin HS), and Dr. Tim Swick (School District Five).
Congratulations to these students for their impressive academic achievements and commitment to shaping their futures!
