Orangeburg, S.C. – Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) continues its intentional and transparent approach to telling the district’s story under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster, the 2026 SCASA Superintendent of the Year and 2025 SCAAA Superintendent of the Year. In alignment with his communication philosophy, tell what you want known, provide updates on progress, and share once the work is complete. Dr. Foster has expanded his outreach across Orangeburg County to ensure the community remains informed and engaged.

Over the last several weeks, Dr. Foster has met with leaders and organizations, including the City of Orangeburg, Orangeburg County Government, members of the Orangeburg County Legislative Delegation, the Historic Rotary Club of Orangeburg, and several business and community partners. These conversations are part of his ongoing commitment to highlight the remarkable progress taking place in OCSD, from academic gains and innovative programs to expanding opportunities for students.

During each engagement, Dr. Foster has shared key district accomplishments that demonstrate OCSD’s upward trajectory, including:

•       Improved academic performance across multiple grade levels, with targeted interventions and strong instructional leadership driving measurable growth.

•       Expansion of innovative learning opportunities, including Orangeburg Advanced College, the STEM Lab, Waterford Early Literacy, and career pathways through the OCSD Technology Center.

•       Award-winning student achievements, such as National Beta Club winners, SkillsUSA accomplishments, MLK Oratory Competition champions, and statewide recognition in arts, athletics, and robotics.

•       Historic investments in school facilities, upgraded technology, enhanced safety, and modernized learning environments aligned with community expectations.

•       Ongoing stability in district leadership, resulting in strong organizational culture, consistent expectations, and deeper community trust.

•       Growing business and industry partnerships with organizations such as Boeing, Dominion Energy, Orangeburg County government, higher education institutions, and local nonprofits committed to supporting students and families.

“These conversations matter,” said Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster. “Our community deserves to hear the full story of OCSD, the excellence, the investment, and the transformational work happening in our schools every single day. We are committed to ensuring that everyone across Orangeburg County understands the progress our students and educators are making.”

Dr. Foster emphasized that this outreach is not a one-time initiative but a continuation of deliberate efforts to promote transparency, build trust, and strengthen community partnerships. By keeping stakeholders informed from the beginning of an initiative through its implementation and completion, the district reinforces a culture of open communication and shared accountability.

Dr. Foster will maintain this proactive engagement by connecting with civic groups, community organizations, regional partners, and elected leaders, ensuring that OCSD’s story of excellence is shared throughout the county and beyond.