For the 2025-26 school year, there are 3 alternative public middle schools serving 436 students in South Carolina.
The top-ranked alternative public middle schools in South Carolina are Scdjj Evaluation And Detention Center, Empowerment And Enrichment Academy and The Palmetto Empowerment And Enrichment Academy. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
South Carolina alternative public middle schools have an average math proficiency score of 12% (versus the South Carolina public middle school average of 34%), and reading proficiency score of 35% (versus the 46% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the South Carolina public middle school average of 52% (majority Black).
Best Alternative Public Middle Schools in South Carolina (2025-26)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Scdjj Evaluation And Detention Center
Alternative School
(Math: 11-19% | Reading: 60-79%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
5000 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29212
(803) 896-9037
Columbia, SC 29212
(803) 896-9037
Gr: 4-12 | 436 students Student-teacher ratio: 23:1 Minority enrollment: 82%
Rank: #22.
Empowerment And Enrichment Academy
Alternative School
(Math: ≤10% | Reading: 11-19% )
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
5000 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29212
(803) 896-9114
Columbia, SC 29212
(803) 896-9114
Gr: 5-12
Rank: #33.
The Palmetto Empowerment And Enrichment Academy
Alternative School
(Math: ≤10% | Reading: ≤10%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
5000 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 896-5952
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 896-5952
Gr: 5-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked alternative public middle schools in South Carolina?
The top-ranked alternative public middle schools in South Carolina include Scdjj Evaluation And Detention Center, Empowerment And Enrichment Academy and The Palmetto Empowerment And Enrichment Academy.
How many alternative public middle schools are located in South Carolina?
3 alternative public middle schools are located in South Carolina.
What is the racial composition of students in South Carolina?
South Carolina alternative public middle schools minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the South Carolina public middle schools average of 52% (majority Black).
Recent Articles
Charter Schools vs Public Schools 2025: Key Differences & Trends
Explore updated 2025 insights comparing charter schools vs public schools, enrollment, academic outcomes, funding, and real-world examples for families and educators.
Are Public Schools Ready for the 21st Century? 2025 Update
Explore 2025 insights on whether public schools are ready for the 21st century, covering performance, technology, equity, funding, and future-ready learning.
Public School Open House & Enrollment Season Guide
A parent-focused guide to the public school open house and enrollment season, with expert questions, timelines, and decision tips.
