29 students from Batesburg-Leesville Middle and Batesburg-Leesville High were recognized by the school board for earning perfect scores on the 2023-24 South Carolina End-of-Course Exams.

The standardized tests assess students’ mastery in subjects including algebra 1, biology 1, English 2 and U.S. history.

Of the 29 perfect scores, 15 were earned in biology, six in algebra, seven in English and one in U.S. History. The exam accounts for 29% of each student’s final grade.

In the 2022-23 school year, 25 Lexington Three students achieved perfect scores on the exams.

Board member Ty Bouknight was also recognized for his dedication and service since his election in 2021. As a small token of the board and district's appreciation, Bouknight was given a custom piece of artwork that highlights the town of Batesburg-Leesville.

In the superintendent’s report, it was announced that 33 student-athletes from grades 8 through 12 participated in a heart screening.

A new program, “Panther Ambassadors,” was introduced at the primary school. 35 students were selected based on their leadership, kindness and commitment to helping others.

In the report card presentation, two schools in the district were ranked average and one was ranked below average.

As a result, Lexington Three is required to submit a strategic plan for academic improvement to the school board. If approved, the plan will be sent to the South Carolina Department of Education for final approval.

The district’s graduation rate increased to 87.8% from 86.0% in 2023. The high school received a “good” ranking in the category of high school student success, scoring 86.4%.

Lastly, the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) group at the high school requested approval for a March trip to Charleston for a conference where they will compete in various activities against other schools.

Currently, the HOSA program has 38 active members. The group of students recently did a blood drive with the American Red Cross and is planning a toy drive with Happy Wheel this winter.

The school board unanimously approved the request for the trip.

The next board meeting will be held on Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Lexington Three District Office at 338 West Columbia Ave. in Batesburg-Leesville.