Darlington County School District opens Innovative Magnet Programs application period for 2026–27 school year

DARLINGTON, S.C. — The Darlington County School District (DCSD) opened the application window for its innovative magnet programs for the 2026–27 school year on Monday, Jan. 5. Families may apply through 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 23, using a single, online application available on the district website.
DCSD’s magnet programs provide students with high-quality, specialized learning opportunities designed to support a wide range of academic interests, career pathways, and learning styles. Families can apply to all district magnet programs in one place through a streamlined application process.
The following magnet programs will be open for enrollment for the 2026–27 school year:

Darlington High School Early College Program (Grades 9–12)

Darlington High's Early College Program offers a true early-college experience embedded within a traditional high school environment. Students may pursue a full associate degree or select individual college courses while completing high school requirements. Through strong partnerships with Florence-Darlington Technical College, Francis Marion University, and Coker University, students earn college credit at no cost to families. Students graduate with substantial college credit while still participating in athletics, clubs, and other high school experiences, building confidence, independence, and readiness for college expectations.

Hartsville High School International Baccalaureate Programme (Grades 9–12)

Hartsville High's International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme offers a rigorous, internationally recognized curriculum that provides students with a global perspective and consistent academic standards. Through an emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and research, students learn to connect knowledge across subjects and take ownership of their learning. IB coursework often allows students to exempt or test into higher-level college courses, with advanced preparation that helps them enter college ready for increased academic rigor. At HHS, students remain actively involved in athletics, clubs, and the arts while completing a built-in community service component that supports the development of confident, internationally minded citizens.

Lamar High School Institute of Biomedical Innovation (Grades 9–12)

Lamar High's Institute of Biomedical Innovation is the district’s only biomedical magnet program and serves intentionally small cohorts to allow for personalized instruction and support. Designed by professionals in biomedical and research fields, the four-year program provides hands-on, authentic learning experiences that simulate real medical careers. Students explore medical professions through labs, research, and scenario-based learning while earning industry-recognized certifications. The program also offers Advanced Placement, dual credit, and Career and Technical Education pathways, ensuring graduates are college- and career-ready.

Mayo High School for Math, Science & Technology (Grades 9–12)

Mayo High School for Math, Science & Technology is a magnet school where the entire curriculum is designed around academic rigor, leadership development, and innovative STEM learning. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized support, and a collaborative school culture that emphasizes achievement and growth. The school offers Advanced Placement courses, dual credit, and partnerships with DCIT, Coker University, and the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics. Mayo also features the Accelerate Pre-Engineering and computer science program, providing students with an early foundation for advanced engineering studies.
Additional magnet opportunities include Bay Road Montessori Magnet Program (3K–5th grade) and Darlington County Digital 360 (formerly Darlington County Virtual Academy) for students in grades 6–12.
Families may begin completing the online innovative magnet programs application starting Monday, January 5, 2026. All applications must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026.
The application link, eligibility requirements, and detailed program guidelines are available by clicking here.

 

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