Pee Dee Math, Science and Technology Academy designated as South Carolina’s first Workforce Center of Excellence
Publish Date: 2026-04-25 06:00:00
Source Domain: www.theitem.com
SUBMITTED BY S.C. PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL DISTRICT
BISHOPVILLE – South Carolina Public Charter School District officially designated Pee Dee Math, Science and Technology Academy as the first Workforce Center of Excellence in South Carolina – and the first of its kind in the nation – marking a transformative moment in the evolution of public education and workforce development.
The designation was announced during a special ceremony at the school on April 21, led by PCSD Superintendent Chris Neeley and PDMSTA leader Dr. Keith Bailey, and attended by local officials, school leaders, educators and community, industry and military partners.
“Today is more than an announcement. Today is a declaration about the future,” Neeley said. “This school now stands as the model for what education can and should be – deeply connected to purpose, opportunity and the real world students will enter upon graduation.”
The Workforce Center of Excellence initiative – created by the South Carolina Public Charter School District – represents a bold reimagining of how schools prepare students for life beyond the classroom. The model integrates rigorous academics with hands-on, real-world learning experiences and direct partnerships with business, industry, the military, and higher education.
At its core, a Workforce Center of Excellence ensures that students graduate not only with a diploma but also with tangible advantages: industry-recognized certifications, college credit, workforce experience and a clear pathway to success in college, careers or military service.
Located in Bishopville, PDMSTA serves as a powerful example of what is possible in a rural community. Its recognition underscores a central tenet of the initiative: that excellence is not defined by geography but by vision, commitment and belief in students.
“Being named the first Workforce Center of Excellence is both an honor and a responsibility,” said…
