LATTA, S.C. — Dillon District 3 is celebrating a remarkable achievement in student mathematics growth following the release of the 2025–2026 SC READY results by the South Carolina Department of Education.

According to the South Carolina Department of Education’s latest statewide assessment report, Dillon District 3 ranked first among all South Carolina school districts for math growth from 2025 to 2026, improving by an impressive 8.3 percentage points. This places Dillon District 3 at the top of the state for year-over-year growth in SC READY mathematics performance. (South Carolina Department of Education)

The accomplishment is especially significant as South Carolina students experienced the strongest mathematics performance in the history of the SC READY assessment. Statewide, 47.9% of students in grades 3–8 met or exceeded grade-level expectations in mathematics in 2025–2026, an increase from 43.9% in 2024–2025. It is also worthy to note that 5 out of 6 grades not only increased their scores from 2025 to 2026 but also exceeded the state average on the 2026 assessment.  (South Carolina Department of Education)

For Dillon District 3, however, the story is about more than a number—it is about student growth, teacher commitment, instructional focus, and a collective belief that every student can achieve at high levels.

Superintendent Stephanie Ard expressed pride in the work of students, teachers, instructional coaches, principals, and district leaders who contributed to the district’s outstanding growth.  She also highlights the support staff who keep the operations going to allow for this type of success to take place in classrooms. 

“This achievement is a reflection of the incredible work taking place in our classrooms every day,” said Ard. “Our teachers are working hard to provide rigorous instruction, our instructional leaders are supporting teachers, and our students are rising to the challenge. An 8.3 percentage-point increase is something to celebrate, but more importantly, it demonstrates what can happen when we believe in our students and provide them with the support and instruction they need to succeed.”

The district’s math growth comes at an important time as Dillon District 3 continues to strengthen its focus on high-quality instruction, high expectations, data-informed decision-making, and opportunities for every student to grow.

The SCDE attributed South Carolina’s continued mathematics progress to a comprehensive approach that includes aligned standards and assessments, high-quality instructional materials, professional learning, evidence-based instructional practices, and the Palmetto Math Project. The state has also placed an increased emphasis on supporting educators and strengthening mathematics instruction, particularly in districts serving students with greater needs. (South Carolina Department of Education)

Celebrating Growth—and Raising the Bar

While the district is proud to be recognized as the #1 district in South Carolina for SC READY math growth, district leaders emphasize that the achievement is not a finish line.

“Our students have shown us what they can do,” said Ard. “Now our responsibility is to continue raising the bar. We want our students to know that they are mathematicians, problem-solvers, thinkers, and leaders. We will continue to provide the support, challenge, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.”

The results also align with Dillon District 3’s broader focus on developing students academically and personally. As the district continues its implementation of the Leader in Me framework and its Vikings Lead initiative, the emphasis remains on helping students take ownership of their learning, set goals, persevere through challenges, and recognize their own capacity for success.

The outstanding math growth is a testament to the collective efforts of Dillon District 3’s students, educators, families, administrators, and community partners.

The district celebrates the hard work that produced this historic growth while remaining focused on the work ahead.

With students at the center of the work, the district will continue to pursue excellence, maintain high expectations, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

One District. One Team. One Mission.

Source: South Carolina Department of Education — 2025–2026 SC READY Results