Florence 1 and Citadel Partner on Leadership High School

New Innovation in Leadership program to open in Timmonsville, South Carolina.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:37pm

A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeated icon of a graduation cap, conceptually representing the innovative educational opportunities at the new leadership-focused high school.A vibrant pop art interpretation of the leadership-focused curriculum at the new High School of Innovation in Timmonsville.Timmonsville Today

Florence 1 School District has approved the establishment of a new High School of Innovation in Leadership in Timmonsville, South Carolina, in partnership with The Citadel military college. The new school will focus on developing leadership skills and innovative thinking among high school students.

Why it matters

This partnership between Florence 1 and The Citadel aims to provide students in the Timmonsville area with unique educational opportunities to cultivate leadership abilities and creative problem-solving skills, preparing them for future success in college and careers.

The details

The new High School of Innovation in Leadership will be located in Timmonsville and will leverage The Citadel's expertise in leadership development to create a specialized curriculum for high school students. The school will emphasize hands-on learning, project-based activities, and real-world problem-solving to help students build essential 21st century skills.

  • The Florence 1 School Board approved the partnership in April 2026.
  • The new high school is slated to open in Fall 2027.

The players

Florence 1 School District

The public school district serving Florence County, South Carolina, including the city of Florence and surrounding areas.

The Citadel

A public military college in Charleston, South Carolina, known for its rigorous leadership development programs.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to work with The Citadel to bring this innovative new high school to Timmonsville. It will give our students unique opportunities to hone their leadership skills and creative problem-solving abilities.”

— Dr. Richard O'Malley, Superintendent, Florence 1 School District

“This partnership aligns perfectly with The Citadel's mission to develop principled leaders. We look forward to sharing our expertise and helping shape the next generation of innovators and change-makers.”

— Gen. Glenn Walters, President, The Citadel

What’s next

The school district and The Citadel will now work together to finalize the curriculum, hire staff, and prepare for the high school's opening in Fall 2027.

The takeaway

This innovative partnership between Florence 1 and The Citadel will provide local students with a unique educational opportunity to develop critical leadership skills and creative problem-solving abilities, setting them up for success in college and future careers.