MURRELLS INLET, SC – A  great honor for St. James High School in Murrells Inlet as the school was named a 2015-2016 Palmetto’s Finest School on Tuesday.  St. James won over Seneca High School in the Upstate.

According to the South Carolina Association of School Administrators, “Each spring since 1978, SCASA has recognized a few schools which offer excellent instruction and outstanding leaders, augmented by strong family and community involvement and a supportive business community.  Initially presented only to two elementary schools and one middle school, the award was expanded in 1996-97, with the support of Carolina First Bank, to include a high school. The selection process includes a comprehensive review of a school’s program, focusing on the key question: “What impact is this school making on the lives of students and the community, and is it deserving of the Palmetto’s Finest Award?””

St. James is the first Horry County high school to be so honored since Aynor high won the award 13 years ago.  Although Galivants  Ferry’s Midland Elementary won two years ago.

The most recent Pee Dee school to get the award was Quinby’s Timrod Elementary, which won 21 years ago.