LAURENS — Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) is honored to announce Waterloo Elementary School’s (WES) recognition by the South Carolina Department of Education as a recipient of the Palmetto Silver Award. This distinction underscores the school’s commitment to academic excellence and its demonstrated progress in advancing student achievement within Laurens County School District 55.
The Palmetto Gold and Silver Awards Program, established by the Education Accountability Act of 1998, recognizes schools for achieving high performance and making substantial strides in closing achievement gaps. For elementary schools, award criteria focus on two primary indicators from the state report card: Academic Achievement and Student Progress.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized with the Palmetto Silver Award—a true reflection of our students’ hard work and the unwavering dedication of our teachers, who pour their time, energy, and passion into ensuring student success. We look forward to continued growth and achievement in the years ahead,” said Emily Parks, Principal of Waterloo Elementary School.
The school’s success is driven by innovative, hands-on learning across classrooms. Amanda Lecaroz, LCSD 55 Director of Accountability, Federal Programs, and Professional Learning, praised the achievement as a benchmark for the region.
Lecaroz said, “I am thrilled to congratulate Waterloo Elementary on earning the Palmetto Silver Award. This honor recognizes the consistently high achievement and remarkable student growth on the South Carolina Report Card, made possible by the tireless dedication of our educators and the hard work of our students. It is inspiring to see the school and community come together to set a standard for excellence in South Carolina.”
Teachers play a critical role in this achievement. Neilson Smith, WES Fourth and Fifth Grade Math and Social Studies Teacher and recently named 2026-2027 WES Teacher of the Year, explained, “At WES, we guide students by asking questions, modeling problem-solving, and providing small-group support. We use data to adjust lessons, meeting students where they are and celebrating growth—whether it’s mastering a new skill or steady progress over time.”
Lisa Nelson, Fourth and Fifth Grade English Language Arts and Science Teacher, added, “The Palmetto Silver Award reflects our school’s strong academic performance and meaningful student growth. Waterloo Elementary strives for a ‘5-Star Culture of Excellence’ every day, and this recognition validates that commitment.”
Students are experiencing the impact firsthand. “Teachers make learning fun with games and activities. They notice when we’re struggling and help us understand,” said Evan Solis, a fourth-grade student.
Fifth-grader Lillie Cotoc shared, “I am proud our school received the Palmetto Silver Award. It is well deserved and reflects the hard work of both students and teachers.”
Building on this year’s success, Waterloo Elementary and LCSD 55 leaders are looking ahead, committed to expanding innovative learning opportunities and ensuring every student is inspired to reach their full potential.
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