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Best Elementary Schools in columbia, SC
(2026 List)

Columbia, South Carolina is the state capital and a mid-sized city of about 140,000 residents, anchored by the University of South Carolina, which drives its educational and cultural vibrancy.

The public schools, mainly under Richland One, serve over 48,000 students; average proficiency stands at roughly 32% in math and 48% in reading, trailing state averages. Schools serving low-income communities face deep equity gaps—some middle schools report math proficiency as low as ~30%.Despite that, magnet schools like Spring Valley High and Brockman Elementary rank among the best locally.Notable natives include NASA administrator Charles Bolden Jr., artist Blue Sky, and political leader Christale Spain.Columbia combines cultural heritage with ongoing efforts to uplift educational equity and urban growth.