Blue Ridge High School of Greer has been named a 2025-2026 Palmetto’s Finest School.

The announcement came this morning and was shared live in the school’s gymnasium, allowing students to share the experience alongside school admin. The Palmetto’s Finest Awards are given annually by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA) to schools that offer the best in innovative educational programs.

“This honor belongs to our students, staff and all of RidgeNation,” said Principal Ashley Wardlaw. “Founded in 1954, our school has spent 72 years building toward this moment, and reaching Palmetto’s Finest is a reflection of that legacy.”

Blue Ridge High School was one of 13 schools across the state selected as a 2026 Palmetto’s Finest finalist following an extensive evaluation process. District officials say that the honor reflects the school’s recent achievements at both the district and state levels.

In Fall 2025, Blue Ridge High was recognized as the overall highest performing high school in Greenville County for the 2024-25 school year and had the highest growth for graduation rate in the district. The SCASA also named Wardlaw the 2026 Secondary Principal of the Year last November.

“Every day, we show what it means to build strong relationships, create an organization that promotes the achievement of all students, and rally our community behind our school,” Wardlaw said. “Today is a celebration of who we are and what we believe in, and I am incredibly proud of the journey, the dedication and the people who made it possible.”

Of the 13 finalists, five schools were selected as Palmetto’s Finest honorees. This is the first time since 2023 that Greenville County Schools has received the honor, when Woodmont High School was named the Palmetto’s Finest High School.

“Earning the distinction of Palmetto’s Finest is a remarkable achievement for Blue Ridge High School and a reflection of the strong culture of excellence that defines the entire school community,” GCS Superintendent Burke Royster said. “This honor speaks to the dedication of our educators, the leadership of the administration, the support of families, and—most importantly—the hard work and character of the students.”

For more information on Blue Ridge High School, visit https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/bridgehs/.