From staff reports
Beaufort-Jasper Academy for Career Excellence (BJACE), also known as ACE, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2024 Palmetto’s Finest Award. This recognition underscores the outstanding achievements of BJACE, its leaders, educators, students, and business partners.
This selection comes after extensive evaluations by a committee of educators and previous Palmetto’s Finest winners. The application process included elements on student achievement, instructional programs, professional learning communities, and school culture.
BJACE is one of the six finalists selected from 19 South Carolina schools after a rigorous evaluation process. The finalists, including BJACE, will undergo a second onsite evaluation before the winners are announced this Spring. The Palmetto’s Finest Award, presented by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA), is in its 44th year and is considered one of the most coveted and respected awards a school can receive, reflecting their innovative and effective educational programs.
BJACE offers numerous Career and Technical Education programs, serving high school students from both Beaufort and Jasper counties.
“It is such a great accomplishment for BJACE to be named a finalist for the 2024 Palmetto’s Finest Award,” Jasper County Superintendent Rechel Anderson said in a news release. “Congratulations to all who work tirelessly to ensure that the scholars of Beaufort and Jasper are afforded an opportunity to embrace the many academic career pathways that lead to endless career opportunities. I look forward to watching BJACE continue to soar!”
BJACE Principal Michael Lovecchio expressed appreciation, saying, “I speak on behalf of the ACE students, faculty, and staff, expressing our gratitude and humility upon being selected as a finalist for Palmetto’s Finest. This achievement not only highlights the excellence at ACE but also underscores the collaborative spirit shared by Beaufort and Jasper Counties, our eight feeder high schools, and the unwavering support of two dedicated superintendents and school boards.”
Beaufort County School District Superintendent Frank Rodriguez appreciates the dedicated focus BJACE students exhibit.
“Every semester I meet with students from ACE and am always so impressed with their maturity, future plans, and skills and talents,” he said in a news release. “They are the best example of why ACE is so deserving of this recognition.”
