Florence 1 Schools approved a new High School of Innovation in Leadership with The Citadel for 2027-28.

FLORENCE, SC / ACCESS Newswire / April 23, 2026 / Florence 1 Schools is set to expand its specialized educational portfolio following the Board of Trustees' unanimous approval of the High School of Innovation in Leadership. Slated to open in Timmonsville for the 2027-2028 school year, the school is developed in a strategic partnership with The Citadel.

The High School of Innovation in Leadership will become the district's third School of Innovation, joining the Poynor School of Healthcare Innovation, which opened in January 2026, and the School of Innovation in Aerospace, set to open in 2027. The proposal was presented to the Board of Trustees by Gregory Hall, Superintendent of Secondary Education.

"Our goal is for the High School of Innovation in Leadership to mirror the cadet experience at The Citadel," Hall said.

The program is designed to surpass traditional dual-enrollment models by embedding leadership development into the core structure of the school.

"There are plenty of districts that have dual-enrollment, but to have a specific strategic partner and build a High School of Innovation with a dedicated structure of leadership within it, that is unique," Hall added.

Leadership coursework will be integrated throughout the curriculum, creating a cohesive academic environment centered on discipline, character development, and real-world readiness.

"Leadership classes will be woven into the curriculum and the structure of the school," Hall said. "There will also be dual-enrollment, AP courses, and school-wide JROTC."

By partnering with The Citadel, Florence 1 Schools aims to create a distinctive educational pathway that prepares students for both college and leadership roles across professional sectors.

The district's continued investment in Schools of Innovation reflects a broader strategy to provide students with specialized, career-aligned opportunities while strengthening academic outcomes and engagement.

Additional details regarding enrollment, curriculum design, and the state approval process are expected to be announced in the coming months.

About Florence 1 Schools
Florence 1 Schools serves a diverse student population in Florence, South Carolina, offering innovative academic programs designed to prepare students for success in college, careers, and community leadership.

For more information and to view the High School of Innovation presentation, please visit f1s.org/news.

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Media Contact: Ashley Watson
Phone: 843-413-4687
Email: marketing@f1s.org

SOURCE: Florence 1 Schools