Dean's Letter

When students pass through the wrought-iron gates at the entrance to our campus, they enter a school community that is unlike any other. This gateway-decorated with emblems of our five arts disciplines-opens onto an environment that supports young artists through an educational and life experience. This experience not only allows students to grow artistically and intellectually, but it also encourages them to pursue their dreams and to develop meaningful relationships with others who understand and support their passion by challenging them to reach their full potential. The mission and core values of the school provide the pathway to success.

At every turn on the Virginia Uldrick campus of the South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, it is apparent that art is important in our world. In terms of education, it means we approach learning in a way that recognizes and supports our emerging artists. Excellence in teaching and learning is apparent in every subject area and the bridge of a rich humanities curriculum serves to build meaningful relationships across all disciplines.

All too often, schools merely "cover" material, but at this school, we uncover understanding and potential. Learning is not just about giving answers, but it is about developing the skills to question. Students here are able to take educational risks in a safe and supportive environment and they are provided with the necessary tools to explore, create, and develop original thought. We have exceptional faculty and staff, and we have high expectations for our students. As a result, our students are challenged to reach heights otherwise not possible. Through discipline, focus, and passion, student learning is full of possibility.

The sense of community at the Governor's School is part of what makes the experience so meaningful - and why it is important for all students to live on campus in a residential setting. Through a community structure, students have access to faculty and staff in a way that reaches beyond the classroom walls. Our students have many opportunities for leadership and participation that lead toward ownership in the educational process. As a result, they develop a sense of belonging and a sense of place.

The living and learning environment at the Governor's School provides students with opportunities to develop strong character traits, integrity, and a positive valuing system. Our core belief of service learning teaches students to use their gifts and talents to reach out to the community in which they live in an effort to demonstrate elemental kindness, concern, and respect for others. The Honor Code and Honor Council reflect the basic set of values that the community expects from all its members.  

The graduates of the South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities not only exemplify the outstanding artistic talent within our state, but they also demonstrate what is possible through innovative, challenging educational experiences. With focused artistic training and high artistic and academic expectations, they are well positioned to be leaders in their colleges and professional artistic pursuits. The numerous state and national accolades are a tribute to these outstanding students - and to the state of South Carolina.

When students graduate from the Governor's School, they process through the courtyard and exit through the gates at the front of the campus. Because of their experience here, students leave us to enter a world that is rich with possibilities. They carry with them the security of the Governor's School community and the encouragement to continue to pursue their dreams. They are capable and prepared with the tools to make significant contributions wherever their path leads.