Seneca High School named Palmetto’s Finest

Tuesday afternoon, Seneca High School was named a Palmetto’s Finest for the 2016-17 school year. This was the second year in a row that the school was selected as a finalist, making the award even more special, said SHS principal Cliff Roberts. “This is ten years in the making. Ten years ago we were not a Palmetto’s Finest School and there has been a lot of sweat equity and hard work from the entire community. This award is not just about Seneca High, it is a reflection of the entire One Seneca family. The thing that makes this school great is and always will be our students. But the efforts from businesses, support partners, and families have all gotten on board and bought into our vision of no excuses and that our diversity is our strength. I could not be more proud of our kids. To be a Palmetto’s Finest is a testament to our outstanding students as well as our dedicated faculty, staff, and community.” After hearing that the school had won the statewide award, Roberts gave high fives to all those in attendance. A sense of pride could be felt by everyone in the Media Center, shared Oconee County Schools Board Chairman Andy Inabinet. “I’m very proud and I think this is long overdue, I think they should have gotten it last year but I am glad that they persevered. To be a repeated finalist says that there are outstanding things going on here and we are just glad that the rest of the state knows it now. We are very proud of Mr. Roberts, his whole staff, and all the students at Seneca High School.” Oconee County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Thorsland said the Palmetto’s Finest Award brings recognition to the entire district. “We are just real excited. Seneca High is a great school and we think it is well deserved and a lot of hard work went into this and we are very proud of Seneca High. It is a bragging point for Oconee County and well deserved and hard earned.” As a finalists and winner, Seneca High School received statewide recognition and a plaque. The SC Association of School Administrators (SCASA) presents the awards each year to schools that offer the best in innovative and effective educational programs. The Palmetto’s Finest Award is celebrating its 39th year and is one of the most coveted and respected awards among educators.