A groundbreaking partnership will expand learning opportunities for students in Darlington County, Sonoco, Coker College and the Governor's School for Science and Math have partnered with the Darlington County School District to strengthen the math, science and fine arts programs for students at Hartsville High School.
The program is called PULSE, Partners for Unparalled Local Scholastic Excellence. Sonoco plans to donate $5 million dollars over the next five years to the PULSE project.
The collaboration will allow Hartsville High students to take classes that are not offered at the school. They can study art, dance, music and theater at Coker College. The students will get college credit for the classes.
Students will also be allowed to study advanced math and science, including organic chemistry, at the Governor's School for Science and Mathematics.
Rainey Knight, Darlington County School District Superintendent, says the partnership will make her district one of the fastest improving districts in the state.
Dr. Mick Zais, state Superintendent of Education, attended the news conference and praised the project, saying it is moving education ahead in Darlington County.
The goal of the partnership is to take away any limitations for students that budget cuts may have created. The program also involves helping struggling elementary schools in Hartsville by reinforcing parental involvement and teacher collaboration.
