For nearly two decades one Lexington County school district has provided opportunities for its senior residents, while another district extends its similar program to other worthy residents.

Through the program at Lexington-Richland School District 5, senior citizens can grab hold of a Golden Pass and gain free admission to most athletic and cultural events, with the expectation of playoff games.

According to Laura McElveen, public information specialist for the district, this program originated as an outreach program to thank senior citizens. The passes are valid for a lifetime and have no need to be renewed.

“The Golden Pass program is important because it brings community members of all ages together and provides an opportunity to say thank you to our senior community for volunteering and supporting our schools,” she said. “When the stands are filled, our students feel supported by the community and recognized for their efforts.”

In order to obtain a pass, citizens must be 60 or older and reside in the District 5 attendance zone. District 5 covers portions of both Lexington and Richland Counties featuring schools like Chapin High, Irmo High and Dutch Fork High.

McElveen told the Chronicle that for the 2022-2023 school year, over 300 passes were issued. Passes for the new school year have already been issued.

“The seniors enjoy watching all of the sporting events and cultural events that their loved ones are involved with,” she said.

Lexington County School District 2 – which serves West Columbia, Cayce and Springdale and features the high schools Airport and Brookland-Cayce – has its own similar program, available to district residents 65 and up.

The district’s pass, which grants access to most Lexington 2 athletics events, is eligible to first responders and some others, according to a release.

Eligible residents can apply for and receive passes for the current school year throughout the month of August.

“The Silver Pass is available to Lexington Two residents ages 65 and older. Residents must bring a photo ID that proves their residency and age,” the release states. “The All-Sports Pass is available to elected officials, licensed ministers, police officers, and firefighters, with a photo ID, who serve in the Lexington 2 attendance area.”

Residents who qualify can have passes made Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the District Education Center (715 9th St. in West Columbia).